DOHA: Bogs Laher’s five successive shots at the 15-foot line in the third quarter proved to be the turning point as Flamin’Go beat QP Dukhan 77-58 to register their first victory in the semi-final rounds at the Class B of Subaru Cup 2012 of Pinoy Basketball Qatar.
Elsewhere in other matches in the Pinoy Basketball Qatar competition, newcomer CEG International also foiled the high hopes of veteran KIA Motors in the other semi-final game that took place.
CEG International captured a 92-88 victory, led by Ryan Feliciano.
Feliciano played an important role who contributed eight of his 21 points in the crucial last quarter.
It was a big blow for KIA Motors after Arjen Tolentino was slapped with a technical foul for wearing improper uniform compounded by another reliable player who never showed up in the game that added problems for coach Boyet Gamba.
In another game that was played on the sidelights of the Qatar Basketball League, Dukhan Ballers escaped a narrow victory, 75-74, over NATSCO Garage.
Both squads fought hard in the first two periods with the Group 1 leaders, Dukhan taking the driver’s seat, 37-35, at the half-time break.
The Group 2 leaders NATSCO climbed back in contention to grab the upper hand in their match at Al Gharafa Indoor Hall.
NATSCO looked like they were heading for a win as they posted a 7-point margin at 70-63, with 3:20 to go in the match.
The Ballers, however, subdued their foes’ offensive in the homestretch.
The Ballers banked on 12-4 run to pick up their seventh win in eight outings and fortify their hold of top spot in Group 1.
The result meant that NATSCO absrobed their second setback in eight matches this season.
THE PENINSULA
