In spite of the win, Peristeri made a disappointing game vs. Mornar Bar
In the absence of Jacob Pullen, Antabia Waller and Uros Lukovic, things had to be easy for Peristeri Athens in their home game against Mornar Bar. And it looked easy till the halftime when the host team had a comfortable advantage 41-29. But the things complicated with a so poor start of the 3rd quarter for Peristeri who scored only 2 points in almost 7 minutes allowing the visitors the first comeback of the game. In the last stanza, Mornar Bar pushed a bit more their limits, taking the lead for small margin but then, in the end, they have lost the control. Peristeri eventually won the game but their play was actually miserable, pathetic against a team plagued by injuries.
Both teams needed the win and for Mornar Bar this is the end of the season in Basketball Champions League because they are already out with 2 rounds remaining. Peristeri still has a chance to qualify for the playoffs, but with this kind of basketball, I don’t see them favourites in front of Brose Bamberg next week. That game is the real do-or-die for both teams, because Brose is in the back of Peristeri at one victory, having as well the advantage of the first meeting. Then the ex-Euroleague powerhouse won with a couple of points and another win in Greece can put them in the best position.
Peristeri showed a lack of appetite in offense and in defense as well. Even if they allowed the opponents only 67 points, we have to take into considerations that Mornar Bar came without some good weapons. Let’s mention only Jacob Pullen who can make a difference in such a very balanced game. This kind of approach won’t work against Brose Bamberg, a team who is used to score a lot especially when the defense is letting the guard down.
Photo: Basketball Champions League
Gratian Cormos
