Magnolia Hotshots fans can expect the Pambansang Manok to make their move up the standings in the next few games. That’s according to no less than coach Chito Victolero himself.
And the reason for this renewed optimism is the return to form of hardworking import Ricardo Ratliffe, whom Victolero says is now 100% after dealing with a right shoulder injury.
“Right now, I think he’s 100 percent. It’s good for us,” said Victolero of his prized import after Magnolia welcomed the new year with an 89-84 victory over the Terrafirma Dyip.
Victolero bared Ratliffe was bothered by the injury, which he sustained in Magnolia’s game against the Converge FiberXers on December 1 last year. The Korean naturalized player, though, continued playing even while hurting.
“Si Ricardo naman tahimik lang yan. Kumbaga no excuses for him,” said Victolero.
Ratliffe is now back in the pink of health thanks largely to the holiday break that gave Ratliffe time to rest and recover.
“Na-rest niya na ‘yung body niya as well as ‘yung injury niya. The medical staff did a good job of handling the injury,” Victolero remarked.
San Miguel Is Next in Pivotal Showdown
Ratliffe’s return to form and the win over Terrafirma might be the tonic Magnolia needs to turn its conference around. Currently at 3-5, the Hotshots started the PBA Commissioner’s Cup with a win but lost four straight before going 2-1 in their last three games. Now, the team is looking to continue its ascent up the standings.
But the Hotshots have a familiar and formidable adversary that’s looking to do the same in the San Miguel Beermen. Like Magnolia, San Miguel has had a challenging conference and is currently at 3-4—just a loss ahead of the Hotshots. And, just like Magnolia, San Miguel is also looking to make a move as the stretch run of the midseason tourney approaches.
Victolero, though, is unfazed—not with Ratliffe back in good shape. But he is still banking on his locals, like Mark Barroca and Zavier Lucero, to help out big time.
“With the help of the locals, we will have a good run this next few games,” Victolero vowed.
The Hotshots and Beermen clash later tonight at the Ynares Center in Antipolo. Game time is set at 7:30 p.m. after the curtain-raiser between Barangay Ginebra San Miguel and Blackwater Bossing.
