Rattana Bundit edge out Siam

Rattana Bundit University narrowly edged out the inspired Siam University 68-64 to remain atop of the Group B standings after their preliminary round meet in the Bt140,000 The Nation-Siam University League Tournament yesterday.
Played at the Rattana Bundit Gymnasium, the hosts, with two wins against one defeat, underlined their authority over the visitors, whom they defeated 74-63 in the away game. Led by Attaporn Lerdmalaiporn, Rattana Bundit employed better teamwork and positioning to gain the upper-hand and lead 16-12 after the first quarter. Siam tried to speed up the game in the second session, but it was Rattana Bundit who proved superior with their long shooting. Just before half-time, key man Attaporn sank a three-pointer to help his side stride to a 37-28 lead. Siam's efforts finally paid dividends in the third quarter when they marked Attaporn and Nopporn Saengtaeng scored successive shots to help his team level at 42-42. But Rattana Bundit managed to surge away to 50-46. The final quarter proceeded neck-neck-neck with Siam fighting back to narrow the gap to 61-63. But in the end Rattana Bundit played better under pressure, landing the game 69-64. Attaporn scored 24 points which made him the top scorer for Rattana Bundit, while Nopporn, with 22, was the top scorer for Siam. "Siam did their homework and studied our weaknesses. We had a lapse in the third quarter but still recovered quickly to take charge again," said Rattana Bundit's coach Kittiwat Paengsawa. In the other Group B match, Srinakarinwirot University beat Bangkok University 85-78 at the Bangkok University Gymnasium. Rattana Bundit leads the group, followed by Srinakarinwirot, Bangkok and Siam.
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