The 4A’s Warriors squandered a 23-point half time lead but managed to scrape a 61-60 win over Drydocks World Dubai in Category 2 of Chery-Al Habtoor Motors Cup.
The Warriors led by 12 points, 20-8, at the end of the first quarter and increased their lead to 46-23, at the turn after Joel Ramirez and Randy Punzalan exploded in the second period.
Albert Sieras sparked a 13-2 run for Drydocks at the start of the third frame, cutting the deficit to 10, 54- 44, going into the final period. Drydocks imposed pesky defence in the fourth quarter and dug deep to keep within striking distance.
Sieras then gave Drydocks their first taste of the lead, 60-59, with 15 seconds remaining but Ramirez replied with a strong drive to the basket to take back the lead, 61-60, with seven seconds left.
Drydocks still had a chance to score a game-winning basket but Michael Yee missed his shot at the sound of the buzzer.
“We just got lucky in the end,” 4A’s Warriors coach Jeff Templo told Sport360°. “We started strong and controlled most part of the game but they (Drydocks) did not give up and put up a tough challenge."
Elsewhere, Noy Sayon carried Luzan Cargo to an 88-86 overtime win over Pretty Feet.
Sayon top-scored with 39 points, followed by Ronald Wacker with 16 markers, including four triples, while Rommel Ordonia led Pretty Feet with 26 points.
