Jernik destroy Maya Silk's spirited return

AFTER a spirited comeback by Maya Silk, it was not enough to secure a victory against Jernik Remittance, 79-75 at the Red Bull Challenge Trophy last night.

Maya Silk had already reduced a 12-point deficit to one point with one minute remaining. However, Jernik Remittance beefed up the defence to deny Maya Silk from adding more points. Jernik Remittance used a triple team defence to shut Maya Silk's shooters.

In the first half, the momentum was back and forth as both sides scored three pointers to the delight of the crowd. Rosli Said of Jernik Remittance scored an impressive five three-pointers in the first half but Maya Silk replied with three-pointers from M Cruz.

The first half drew a close when Maya lost a lead of 10 points as Jernik had a better second quarter. With one minute remaining, Jernik's captain Rosli Said scored two crucial 3 pointers to give Jernik a 38-35 lead at half time.

The second half saw Jernik pull away from their opposition with Rosli again on form.

The height of Epoy Espiritu of Jernik also gave them the extra advantage as Maya Silk had difficulty in containing the centre guard. However, in the final quarter, Maya Silk put in an excellent fight as M Cruz and M Nuguid of Maya Silk scored vital points.

Then with less than two minutes remaining, Maya Silk was only one point behind with 76-75 scoreline. Jernik had initially lost their momentum, giving away possessions cheaply.

Tony Tan of Jernik was then fouled but he failed to convert two free throws. However, it was his teammate that put the nail to the coffin with his winning lay-up shot to Jernik in a comfortable position with 20 seconds remaining.

The score maintained till the end as Jernik beat Maya Silk 79-75.

For Jernik, their captain Rosli Said finished with 34 points, mostly coming from three point range. He had an impressive 7 three-pointers.

For Maya Silk, M Cruz was their top scorer with 22 points. J Ojena of Maya Silk finished with 16 points.The Brunei Times