Al Rayyan, El Jaish set for decider

By Danotzki Santos/Doha

Al Rayyan and El Jaish will clash in Game 3 of their Emir Cup semi-finals tonight at the Al Gharafa Indoor Arena.

Al Rayyan drew first blood in the best-of-three series between the two squads, nailing down El Jaish 65-54, with Yaseen Mousa, Jeremeo Davidson and Erfan Saeed combining for 44 points in a low-scoring yet tightly-fought Game 1 on Friday.

Harold Boney Watson, who hurt himself in the match, contributed only 5 markers but had a remarkable overall showing as he also managed 5 rebounds, 3 assists and one steal aside from effectively manning the point for the defending champions.

Tanguy Ngombo’s guns were relatively silent that night with 5 points but he likewise did splendidly in other areas with 5 assists, 2 rebounds and 2 steals.

El Jaish came out strong in Game 2 the other day, running away with a 64-55 victory, behind Ali Turki’s explosive offensive game who sizzled with 24 points, half on a 4 of 10 shooting clip from beyond the arc, to even up the series to 1-1 and force today’s decider.

Fadi Abilmona and Antonio Anderson conspired for 26 points, 13 rebounds, 4 assists and 2 steals to highlight Army’s dominance at the backcourt with Chris dela Rosa left alone for Rayyan to tend the point as Watson sat helplessly from the bench healing an aching neck.  

With Al Sadd facing off with either team, the final game of the prestigious HH the Emir Basketball Cup is set on Friday at the Al Gharafa Indoor Arena.