Philippine men take basketball gold

By Primastuti Handayani

JAKARTA (JP): The Philippines mapped out its territory as the regional strongman in basketball after its men's team beat Malaysia 96-86 for the gold yesterday.

Thailand demolished Indonesia's hope for the bronze after beating the host team 68-57.

But Malaysia saved some of its disappointment by taking the women's gold after eliminating Thailand 67-58.

Indonesia also managed to restore its wounded pride by snatching the bronze from the Philippine women 68-65.

In the men's, the Philippines led from the beginning due to the forays of forward player Renato Morano, finishing the first half ahead by 45-39.

Unfortunately for the Malaysians, Morano played even better in the second half, spearheading his country's win with a total of 28 points.

In the game for bronze, Indonesia led 36-32 in the first half but could not maintain its dominance. Jantharaniyom Pramoch of Thailand was a major help in fending off Indonesia's attack and gaining momentum for the win.

In the women's team final, Thailand led 35-28 in the first half but again it was a problem of not being able to maintain the pace.

Despite dogged efforts of its center Benarelee Somtawil, the Thai team faltered and could do little as Malaysia marched on to the gold.

The Indonesian women's team, seeded fourth, upset the form books in taking the bronze. Forward Susana Legawa was instrumental in leading the team to a coveted medal by defeating the Philippines.