Forward Ako Pascall saved his best for last, when he scored 15 of his match-high 35 points in the final quarter which saw the visiting team, Marabella, to a shock 81-77 first leg win over Caledonia, in the semifinal stage of the Hoop of Life Community Basketball League, on Saturday.
The contest was staged in front of 400-strong supporters, at Paradise Heights, Morvant.
After the councillor for Success/Trou Macaque district, Joel Harding jumped the ball, the home-team raced to a 27-20 first quarter lead with forward Keyron Joseph and centre Wesley Vincent, both of whom finished on 21 points, on fire with 11 and eight points, respectively, in that period alone.
The teams then traded baskets in the second quarter but the home team remained with the edge, 43-37, when it ended.
Caledonia was handicapped in the third quarter as Vincent, its floor-leader and a national centre was forced to watch from the bench after committing four fouls. Nevertheless, his teammates, backed by its supporters and cheerleaders, closed the session ahead 62-58, despite being outscored 21-19.
Caledonia kept control of the match until the 4:32 mark in the final quarter, at which point Marabella took control, with Pascall stealing the spotlight.
Pascall demonstrated his vast experience and dribbling skills, and was the one responsible when the scores read 72-72. Marabella never lost control.
Not even the Vincent's return could spark the host as Darrel Baptiste and starting point-guard Steve Williams were fouled out in the final two minutes to deepen Caledonia's challenge.
With the exception of an uncontested lay-up from centre Damion Caton and a free-throw from Kirt Baptiste inside the final minute, it was all Pascall's show.
The result meant Caledonia would have to win by at least five points when it travels to Bayshore, Marabella, today for the return fixture.
The $1 million final is scheduled for Sunday.
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