Crucial semis opener Wednesday

B-Meg Derby Ace coach Ryan Gregorio hopes to duplicate their magical win last conference when they collide against a well-rested San Miguel Beer at the start of their best-of-seven semifinals series in the PBA Fiesta Cup at the Araneta Coliseum.

Gregorio admitted that they have not yet fully recover from their gruelling quarterfinal showdown with Rain or Shine which ended in a knockout match last Sunday but he’s confident of giving the fancied Beermen another surprise.

Last conference, the Llamados (formerly the Purefoods Giants) stunned the Beermen in the semis, 4-2, to advance in the finals where they swept the Alaska Aces to win the most important jewel in the two-conference season.

After the 5 p.m. showdown of Derby Ace and San Miguel, Alaska Milk hopes to get its revenge against Talk ’N Text starting at 7:30 p.m.

One reason why Gregorio is upbeat despite the short period of time to soothe their weary bones and jagged nerves is because of their new import in Tony Washam.

Washam was simply marvelous the last time as he exploded for 49 points – the most by any import in recent history since former Purefoods import Darius Rice scored 56 in the 2008 Fiesta Conference.

"Scoring 49 points on his third day in the country shows that he still has more talent to show," said Gregorio.

But it won’t be easy this time for Washam as the Beermen have the guys who can handle him. San Miguel’s Mick Pennisi, Jay Washington, Dorian Pena and import Gabe Freeman are expected to alternate in guarding the prolific Derby Ace import.

James Yap was held to just 14 points the last time – his lowest in the series – but he’s expected to regain his explosiveness despite his personal problems.

Games Wednesday (Araneta Coliseum)
5 p.m. — B-Meg Derby Ace vs San Miguel
7:30 p.m. — Talk N' Text vs Alaska