Unbeaten Muharraq Storm Past Manama

TDT | Manama

Email : hussainm@newsofbahrain.com

Champions Muharraq extended their unbeaten run in the Zain Bahrain Basketball League 2025/26 Premier Division with a statement 79-66 victory over Manama at Um Al Hassam Sports Hall yesterday. Trailing by eight at halftime, Muharraq flipped the script in the second half with a dominant third quarter and clinical execution down the stretch.

The game opened as a low-scoring battle, with Manama leading 42-34 at the break, relying on inside play from Donoven Carlisle and Subah Hussain, while Hasan Nowrooz finished the half with an impressive eight-point run. Muharraq kept pace thanks to Mohamed Ameer’s 18 points and Kerwin Roach’s game-high 20 points, whose scoring and aggression near the rim, along with late-quarter contributions from Mahmood Abbas Isa and Ali Hussain Rashed, kept them within striking distance. Manama were led by Mohammed Buallay with 12 points and Ali Jaber with 11, supported by other key contributors including Nowrooz, Hussain, and Carlisle.

Momentum shifted in the third quarter as Muharraq outscored Manama 23-7, overturning the deficit and taking control. Roach sparked the surge with threes, layups, and a tip-in, while Abbas Isa added crucial inside and perimeter scoring. Ameer remained efficient inside, and Rashed contributed tip-ins and free throws. Strong defense and transition play kept Manama struggling to respond, with only Emran Hasan and Nowrooz finding points in the quarter.

In the fourth, Muharraq sealed the win with continued consistent scoring, rebounding, and defensive intensity. Wayne Chism dominated the boards, adding crucial layups and free throws, while Roach and Abbas Isa maintained the offensive tempo. Manama fought valiantly but could not match Muharraq’s second-half surge, leaving the challengers unable to close the gap.

With this win, Muharraq remain unbeaten after eight games, holding firm atop the six-team league. Their second-half turnaround showed depth, adaptability, and championship credentials. The Red Wolves will now turn to the FIBA West Asia Super League, hosting Shabab Al Ahli on January 12 before traveling to face Ittihad on January 19.