M. Lhuillier Kwarta Padala-Cebu tests mettle of renamed San Miguel squad

Game Saturday:

Cebu Coliseum

6 p.m. – MLKP-Cebu Niños vs. Petron

The M. Lhuillier Kwarta Padala-Cebu Niños will be up against a familiar foe with a brand-new name today as they take on the visiting Petron Blazers in an exhibition game at the Cebu Coliseum.

The multi-titled Niños of head coach Raul “Yayoy” Alcoseba are coming off a fruitful trip to Ilocos Sur, where they claimed the first leg championship of the Liga Pilipinas V.

However, a dangerous foe awaits them tonight as the Petron Blazers, formerly the San Miguel Beermen, are seeking redemption after a disastrous showing in the PBA Commissioner’s Cup, which saw them end up dead last in the standings.

The Blazers are hoping that today’s game will set the tone for their upcoming stint in the PBA Governor’s Cup.

The Niños, on the other hand, are preparing to host the second leg of the Liga Pilipinas on May 18.

The Blazers will be coming full force, led by their latest acquisitions Rabeh Al-Hussaini, Noy Baclao and Rey Guevarra, whom they got in exchange for Cebuano Dondon Hontiveros, Danny Seigle, Dorian Pena and Paul Artadi.

CEBUANO WITH PETRON

Coach Renato Agustin will still rely heavily on two-time MVP Danny Ildefonso, Arwind Santos, Jay Washington and Alex Cabagnot. Former Unversity of Cebu (UC) standout Moncrief Rogado will also be suiting up for Petron for the injured Sunday Salvacion.

The Niños will be led by first leg MVP Jayford Rodriguez along with Stephen Padilla, Bruce Dacia, Ian Saladaga and Abby Santos.