YTE notch 2nd straight win

YUAN TONG ENTERPRISE (YTE) notched up their second straight victory after disposing of Chua Auto Mobile 80-50 in Group A of the 2009 Brunei Pepsi Cup at the Brunei Basketball Association (BBA) court in Batu Bersurat.

YTE, which looked a better side compared to their opening loss to Linktech, outscored their opponents 22-2 in the third quarter that led to the win.

Esmond Tan and Benjamin Lim each contributed 17 points for YTE, who will have to face KOF in a make-or-break match on Friday to determine which team will progress into the quarterfinals.

On the other hand, Wong Ha Shiong had a good night with a game high 25 points for Chua Auto Mobile.

The first quarter was tight as YTE only took a slim 19-14 lead into the second period.

Chua Auto Mobile, comprised of Under-19 players, put up a strong challenge but were simply overpowered by their taller and more experienced opponents.

"I thought that the team played very well today.

"We are getting better and are trying most of the plays that we have learnt before as training for our next game," said Tony Tan, coach of YTE.

When asked on his crucial next game, Tony replied, "We are definitely ready for them and I think we should be able to progress into the quarterfinals."

In the second game, Kitchen of Jasmine defeated Afima Express 87-84 to take runners-up spot in Group B to advance into the quarterfinals.

Kitchen of Jasmine led the whole game except for the opening minute of the game where they were down 3-2. They were leading 74-57 with less than seven minutes left in the last period but Afima Express were always on their heels and mounted a comeback but failed to do so in time.

"I thought that we played well on offence. The players were following instructions and we managed to execute our plays," said Maxim Yap, Kitchen of Jasmine coach. "I guess the key to victory was that we managed to control the ball eventhough we were being pressured by the full court press.

"The game was also made more difficult as our big men were in foul trouble," added Yap.

When asked on his strategy towards the quarterfinals, Yap replied, "I don't know who the teams we are playing yet but we will definitely be prepared for them."

Tonight's games will see Ranoadidas Rockettes take on Sally Beauty Saloon, where both are still searching for a first win, in the Women's match at 7pm. The second game will pit Babes Boutique against De' Lightz Coffee Shop in Group D action at 8.30pm.The Brunei Times