Muharraq Dominate Rivals Al Ahli in Semifinal Opener

TDT | Manama

Email : hussainm@newsofbahrain.com

Reigning champions Muharraq cruised to a 90–73 win over Al Ahli in the Zain Bahrain Basketball League semifinal opener at Khalifa Sports City Arena, taking control of the best-of-five series. Under the guidance of German coach Peter Schomers, the Red Wolves are chasing a fifth straight league title and a season treble after already claiming the Khalifa bin Salman Cup and Super Cup.

Muharraq made their dominance clear from the opening tip. Captain Bader Abdulla scored 10 of the team’s first 19 points, sparking a 24–9 lead. Wayne Chism dominated the boards, while Mohamed Ameer’s inside presence disrupted the Eagles. Al Ahli, led by coach Ahmed Jan, struggled to find rhythm despite Anthony Fairley’s energy and Ali Shukralla’s rebounding.

Al Ahli fought back in the second quarter. Fairley attacked the basket, and Maitham Jameel hit timely mid-range shots to trim the deficit to 13 by halftime. Schomers’ game plan, however, kept Muharraq composed. Mahmood Abbas Isa orchestrated the offense, Nick West drained jumpers, and Ameer continued to control the paint, preventing the Eagles from gaining momentum.

The third quarter was decisive. Muharraq went on a 12–2 run, fueled by West’s back-toback jumpers and Abdulla’s three-pointer. Jan’s Eagles tried to rally through Sarhan and Jameel, but turnovers and forced shots allowed the the four-time champions to maintain a comfortable lead.

In the final quarter, Muharraq focused on closing out the win. Abdulla finished with a team-high 19 points, while Abbas Isa and West added 15 each. Ameer recorded a double-double with 13 points and 10 rebounds, and Chism contributed 11 points and seven boards. For Al Ahli, Fairley led with 17 points and 10 rebounds; Jameel and Sarhan scored 14 each, while Shukralla grabbed 10 boards. Abbas Isa led the assists with seven, and Fairley added two blocks.

Muharraq’s balanced scoring, rebounding dominance, and disciplined defense ensured a 17-point victory and a 1–0 series lead. Game 2 on Sunday will see Jan’s Eagles fighting to stay alive. Earlier last night, Al Najma kept their own championship hopes alive with a win over Manama, setting up another compelling semifinal series.