Avtodor defeated Runa in Saratov – 79:66 (29:14, 10:19, 20:12, 20:21).
Game progress
The opening quarter of the game was Avtodor Americans benefit. Sindarius Thornwell and Rayshawn Hammonds combined for 19 points, giving the Saratov team a comfortable lead – 29:14. But just like in the previous round, the Moscow team showed the character again.
The second quarter began with the guests 13-point run, which allowed to equalize the score – 33:33. However, Dusan Beslac and Sindarius Thornwell three-pointers gave Avtodor the lead back by the halftime – 39:33.
Key moment
The key play of the game came in the third quarter. The Saratov team regained the lead. After Aleksandr Petenev free throws, the hosts had a 17-point lead – 59:42. In the final quarter, the guests tried to pull off another miracle, but didn’t have enough energy for another comeback.
X-factor
Defense was a key factor in Avtodor win. The Saratov team was able to stop the guests offense. For the first time this season, Runa players scored less than 70 points.
Fact
Avtodor had 5 wins already. But only today the Volga team won for the first time in Saratov.
Leaders
Avtodor: Rayshawn Hammonds (23), Sindarius Thornwell (17 + 6 rebounds), Vasilije Pusica (11).
Runa: Jeremiah Hill (20 + 5 rebounds), Ilia Popov (13), Danila Pokhodiaev (12 + 7 rebounds).
What’s next
Avtodor (5-9): December 6 on the road against CSKA
Runa (7-7): December 7 at home versus Uralmash.
