MADINAH, 15 December 2005 — Top four teams battled it out for the right to play the final of the Prince Faisal ibn Fahd Basketball Tournament here last night, and Al-Ittihad and Al-Ansar were the ones left standing.
Ittihad bench players once again sparkled and led their team to a huge 70-59 victory over Al-Ahli with some accurate shootings from the field. By the end of first quarter, Ittihad were leading by 10 points and at the break Ahli were trailing 38-25.
The second half started with some quick scoring as both teams exchanged many baskets. Ali Maghrabi, with his fine display of basketball skill continued his sparkling performance,hitting 3-point shots with panache. The second game between Al-Ansar and Al-Ohod told a different story as Ansar rallied to beat Ohod 74-68, and set a mouthwatering final clash against Ittihad.
Abdul Mohsen turned in a solid effort for Ohod, contributing 11 of his 18 points in the first half. Mohamed Hateem also did his job well by scoring 12 points for Ansar at the time of the break. Both the teams had many shots at the baskets and had many offensive rebounds. But Ohod proved stronger on the fastbreak. Ansar colleted their efforts firing three-point shots every time they got the ball. Mustafa Hasawi shot 17 points for Ansar, while Ayman Balal contributed 16 points. Ansar had five players in double-digit.
Ahli and Ohod play for the Consolation Cup today before the final between Ittihad and Ansar.
