A thrilling second day at the Dubai International
Day two of the 31st edition packed Shabab Al Ahli's hall with supporters of many nationalities for a high-quality programme.
On the second day of the 31st Dubai International, the matches reached a peak of enjoyment and tension, both in the stands and on court. Shabab Al Ahli's hall was packed with supporters of various nationalities — Filipino, Syrian, Lebanese and Egyptian — following their teams.
The match between Al Ittihad Alexandria and Sale was of a high standard and hung in the balance until the closing moments, going beyond regulation into a five-minute overtime, which Sale, former champions of the tournament, settled 88-87. The winning point came as the referee blew for time, a killer three-pointer that struck Al Ittihad fatally and left them beaten by one after leading by two.
In the second match Hoops of Lebanon beat Al Wathba of Syria 91-87 in a good game from both sides.
The third match drew a large, appreciative crowd that filled the stands, and Mighty Sports of the Philippines overcame Al Ittihad of Syria 77-72 in a contest that was outstanding in every respect, especially for the support, which impressed everyone in the hall.
In another leading fixture Ezzahra Sports of Tunisia recorded a very important win over Beirut of Lebanon, 86-85, in a match that also finished level in regulation and was settled in overtime by a single point.
