Philippine men take basketball gold

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.