The Phoenix Fuel Masters aren’t sweating the what-could-have-beens—not with the new year bringing in a fresh start.
Now 2-5 after their 122-108 triumph over the Terrafirma Dyip on Tuesday, the Fuel Masters are firmly looking forward. That ought to be a good sign as a postseason berth in the PBA Commissioner’s Cup remains technically within reach.
And leading the way in keeping the vibes positive is import Donovan Smith, who has been a workhorse for Phoenix.
“We come in to work every day with the same attitude regardless if we would’ve won five straight or if we would’ve lost. I just feel like keeping that positive mindset within the guys to make sure we all have the same goal no matter if we win or lose,” said Smith in the postgame presser after Phoenix’s win over Terrafirma. “I feel like that’s gonna carry us into the new year. This is a new year, it’s a fresh start. We can’t worry about things that’s already past ‘cause it’s in the past.”
Indeed, past is past, and what better way to bid it good-bye than with a win. And it’s one that Smith hopes the Fuel Masters can build on in their next five games.
“Now we just have to focus on the games ahead and just put our best foot forward and continue to build on this win,” he emphasized.
Can Phoenix Make a Late Push?
The big question now is: Can the Fuel Masters string together an extended winning streak?
If Phoenix’s first seven games are any indication, the answer is a tenuous yes. In most of their games, the Fuel Masters have led by double-digits at various points, only to collapse in the fourth. This was precisely what happened against the Meralco Bolts, the San Miguel Beermen, and the Converge FiberXers—all of which Phoenix lost in heartbreaking fashion.
The Fuel Masters can start by figuring out a way to close out games better—and that’s something they did well enough against Terrafirma. With the Dyip cutting down the lead to four, 88-84, Phoenix went on to win the fourth, 34-24, to notch the all-important victory.
A few more of these complete games and Phoenix could be back in business.
