8th Day
Stadium: Palalotomatika
Tickets: 3720
It was in Rome and the “Palalotomattica” that the unbeaten series of Panathinaikos came to an end. PAO lost to Roma by 85-67 in what was probably the worst performance for Zeliko Obradovic’ team so far this season; nothing went well. Lack of concentration, many turnovers in defense and offense, especially in the second half brought this defeat as Roma showed more passion and determination for the win. It was obvious right from the start that PAO was not in a good night as despite taking a 11-18 lead in 7.30΄ Roma replied back quickly and effectively. Led by Alen and with Stephanson and Ukic in top form, the home team took control of the game and advantage of PAO’s defensive problems. In the 14th Roma had a 37-31 lead but PAO, thanks to Becirovic three-pointers, managed to come back and the game was tied at half time (48-48). The start of the second half was a nightmare for PAO who had a lead for the last time by 48-50 thanks to a Batiste basket but showed lack of energy and concentration after that. With a 17-0(!) run, the Italians, thanks to Zaketi and Fucka, took a 15-point lead in the 28th (65-50) getting the upper hand. PAO tried to reply and cut down the margin to 9 points (66-57), but the rest of the game was all for the Italian team which did not face any problems as PAO had many themselves. Taking also in mind the referee calls who allowed Roma’s tough game, we end up with the final score of 85-67. Score by periods: 20-23, 48-48 (HT) 68-57, 85-67.
