Latest clash between Barangay Ginebra Gin Kings and Meralco Bolts in the PBA Philippine Cup. –PBA IMAGES

MANILA, Philippines—Ginebra and Meralco turned in another classic in the PBA Philippine Cup and if you ask Scottie Thompson, that was totally expected.

Following the Gin Kings’ 82-73 defeat at the hands of the Bolts at Araneta Coliseum on Friday night, Thompson said he expected nothing less from the defending all-Filipino champions.

“We always expect a grind it out game against Meralco,” bared Thompson. “It’ll always be a tough game because we know how strong that team is.”

The former league MVP had himself a game with 16 points, seven rebounds, three assists and three steals but it wasn’t enough to push the Gin Kings to the victory.

Both squads have been in multiple playoff battles the past few years and, most recently, this season.

Just last conference, Ginebra and Meralco duked it out in the best-of-three quarter finals with the Gin Kings coming out on top for a seat in the  PBA Commissioner’s Cup semifinals.

In the conference before that, both also squads duked it out in the Governors’ Cup’s quarters, where the Gin Kings swept the Bolts in three games.

On Friday night, though, it was Meralco that had the last laugh.

“They’re a veteran team. They know how to play the game,” Scottie Said.

“Still, it’s a good thing that we have a chance [for twice-to-beat]. I think they were more motivated than us today because it was their last game today. I give credit to them for coming up with the win tonight.”

On Sunday, Ginebra will face another rival in the form of Magnolia for the Manila Clasico at the Big Dome.