Fortitudo won this game thanks to some unbelievable final minutes. Paf used defence and superiority in rebounding to pressure Estudiantes in the fourth period. Estudiantes surrendered after the first 30 minutes in which it succeeded in controlling and putting its competitor to sleep. Bologna started well, with an early run of 6-0 that became 10-4 with points contributed by Basile. Estudiantes was still in the game and the first quarter ended with a minimum lead for the Italians (23-20). Adrian Autry sunk 10 points, effectively striking at the Spanish defence. The second quarter saw Estudiantes take the lead, 32-33, thanks to Reyes rebounding strength. Estudiantes continued in that direction with a three-pointer by Jimenez at the buzzer. Estudiantes came out in the third quarter convinced of its possibilities, immediately trying to slow down the pace of the game. Paf didn't find the basket and on defence paid immediately for Basile's fouls, sending the Spanish team constantly to the foul line. The score was 48-53 with 5 minutes to go. With 52-61, Paf took some risks and after 30' it was down by 9 (56-65). When it seemed that the game would be for the Spaniards, Fortitudo woke up. Autry, who scored 4 points on the break followed by a three-pointer, revolutionised his team. Estudiantes was wounded, and after 5 minutes, the lead was reduced to one point (69-70). Galanda entered the court, visibly convalescent from an injury in the right shoulder, and he created spaces for Fucka. Galanda missed a three-pointer, but Fucka grabbed the rebound and with a 3-point play, put the Italian team in the lead (72-70). Paf left the Spaniards behind and didn't turn back to look at the opponents. Five points by Galanda (a three-pointer and a fade-away jumper) became decisive in the final minutes, and together with a three-pointer by Pilutti, stamped the final score: 81-72.
Thursday, November 09, 2000
Daniele Baiesi, Telebasket, Milan
|