Aziz Latif seek 3rd win

AZIZ LATIF & CO are aiming for their third win of the LBC Cup when they take to the Brunei Basketball Association court in Batu Bersurat against Liga Bumiputera tonight.

Facing off against the newly-formed all-Malay team which has created waves in the local basketball community, Aziz Latif's head coach knows that his team has their work cut out for them in their Group B regular seven stars category game which tips off at 8:30.

"We have more experienced players than Liga Bumiputera but we know we will have to tighten our defence if we want to win," said Angelito Calina, who played for the University of the East Red Warriors in the Philippines in the 1990s.

"The focus is more on set plays," he added.

Calina said he would be counting on 6ft centre Chris David, 5ft 10 forward Alex Caling, 5ft 9 shooting guard Chris Mariano and 5ft 8 point guard Ron Ang to carry the team to victory.

"It is an important game for us and our opponents are new to the league but they have pride," added the coach, referring to Liga Bumiputera's run in September's 3rd Manjaro Cup with Aewon and Western Union tournament.

Liga Bumiputera went undefeated in the tournament, making their debut in a local basketball competition where they were the guest team in the 38-years-old and above category.

They are not enjoying the same success in the LBC Cup though.

Their only win was a 92-68 result against Menglait All Stars on Nov 8 and Liga Bumiputera's manager-cum-player is eyeing their second win.

"We are looking for our second win but at the same time we are getting the team collective experience by exposing them to a high-level tournament,"said Wira Pori yesterday.

"I was told by several sources that Aziz Latif have the height advantage on us as well as being one of the top teams in the group.

"We are the underdogs in this match and that suits us the best since we are a new team and don't have to live up to expectations," he added.

Calina said that he was concerned about Liga Bumiputera ability to damage opponents on the fast break, adding that he was also wary of their outside shooters.

When asked who Calina might be alluding to, Wira did not hesitate with a reply.

"Sharp shooter Hj Md Rahmat Hj Suhaili comes to mind, and his is a shooting guard who is also able to play as a small forward," said Wira.

The other match of the day will see AKK Design face off against Young Once in the 45-years-old and above category. The Brunei Times