Muharraq move closer to title

TDT | Manama

Email : hussainm@newsofbahrain.com

Muharraq moved within one win of retaining their Zain Bahrain Basketball League title after defeating Manama 88-80 in Game 2 of their best-of-five final series at Khalifa Sports City Arena last night.

The Red Wolves now lead the series 2-0 under head coach Peter Schomers, leaving Manama, coached by Salman Ramadhan, needing a response in Tuesday’s Game 3.

Manama made the stronger start, taking a 21-17 lead in the opening quarter after a dominant 9-0 run led by Ahmed Salman, Mohamed Ghazi, and new signing Donovan Smith. Muharraq struggled early with turnovers from Mohammed Buallay and Mohamed Nasser disrupting their rhythm.

The lead grew to 19-6 midway through the period as Smith controlled the paint and Salman created from the perimeter. Muharraq settled late through Nick West’s free throws and Mahmood Abbas Isa’s midrange scoring, but still trailed at the end of the quarter.

Muharraq responded in the second, gradually working their way back into the game. The teams traded baskets before the score was level at 39-39, with Manama briefly edging ahead again through Salman and Smith.

Defensive pressure proved key for Muharraq as Michael Warren sparked a shift in momentum with steals and transition points. Isa and Nader Ali added timely shooting, with Ali’s three-pointers helping Muharraq edge in front 46-44 by halftime.

Manama regained the lead in a closely contested third quarter. Ali Jaber provided energy off the bench with rebounds and second-chance points, while Emran Hasan hit key three-pointers to push Manama ahead.

Ahmed Salman continued to score efficiently, while Muharraq stayed in touch through Bader Abdulla and Isa. Manama finished the quarter stronger to take a 67-64 lead into the final period.

Muharraq took control in the fourth.

In a physical closing stretch, their defence tightened, forcing turnovers and limiting Manama’s scoring opportunities. Abdulla led the decisive run, knocking down crucial jump shots and converting from the line, while Isa added important three-pointers.

Warren controlled the tempo as Muharraq’s experience showed down the stretch. They pulled clear in the final minutes, while Manama’s offence faltered under pressure with missed shots and costly turnovers.

Captain Abdulla led Muharraq with 18 points to earn Man of the Match honours. Isa added 16, Warren scored 14, and Nasser contributed 13 in a balanced effort.

Smith finished with 25 points for Manama, Salman added 22, and Emran Hasan had 16, but their late-game execution proved decisive in the outcome. Muharraq now stands one win away from history. Manama are the league’s most decorated side with 25 titles, but now face the reality of the champions closing in on a fifth crown of their own.

If Manama win Game 3 on Tuesday, the series will continue with Game 4 on April 17 and, if needed, Game 5 on April 20. All remaining games are scheduled for 7pm at Khalifa Sports City.