Michael Ayonayon feels that it was Game Five all over again in Bacoor

It feels like Game Five all over again.

That was in the mind of Michael Ayonayon when San Juan escaped Bacoor with a one-point win over the Strikers to kick off their title defense in the MPBL Lakan Cup last June 14.

For the reigning Finals MVP, it brought him memories of that thrilling win at Davao Occidental that got them the Datu Cup just two months ago, as the Knights have to get to the eye of the needle anew against retooled side for their opening win.

However, his take over mode was just what coach Randy Alcantara ordered for him, and it was evident on the final 59 seconds where they lost one of their leaders to fouls.

"Siyempre, fouled out na rin si kuya John (Wilson)," said Ayonayon after their 77-76 win at the Strike Gym, in which he hit a go-ahead jumper with 20 ticks left to finish with 22 points. "Tsaka yung expectation ni coach Randy, ako na rin yung mag-iistep up. Talagang pinanindigan ko lang, kasi yung tiwala ni coach Randy, grabe rin eh. Kaya binubuhos ko lang."

However, he concedes that it was not the same Bacoor side that they have beaten comprehensively last season, as it was one of the most active teams during the offseason. 

"Malakas sila ngayon. Talagang parang pinaghandaan kami. scouted yung mga galaw namin. Pero in the end, composure lang."

With the win in the bag, Ayonayon now has his sights on playing at the confines of the FilOil FlyingV Centre, as they welcome Pasay on their home opener on June 28.

"Idedicate namin sa kanila yung game," said Ayonayon, as he seek amends from their home finale last season where they were beaten by Davao Occidental in the Datu Cup finals. "Dapat dun na sana kami nakapagcelebrate. Pero paghahandaan namin yung advantage namin."

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