The Lions fall short in a heartbreaking homedefeat against Joventut Badalona.
A slow start cost Petar Boźić’s Londoners, whoremain third in Group A despite having the same record as the Liga ACB side
After confirming their spot in EuroCup’s Playoffs for the secondstraight season, the London Lions came face-to-face with a glorious opportunityto tie level with second-placed Hapoel Tel Aviv.
A victory would have also pulled London two wins clear of Badalona, who sat once placed beneath them heading into the game.
After being eliminated by the Spaniards last season, the Lions responded by picking up a historic victory at Pabellón Olímpico de Badalona in the early stages of the season. With the former Euro League champions breathing down their neck in the standings, a victory would have made a huge statement from the Brits - especially since it would have confirmed a season sweep over a team that they are eager to seek revenge on.
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Badalona entered the game as the in-form team with six straightEuropean victories under their belt. Carles Durán’s team showed serious intentof confirming their Playoffs spot in the opening 10 minutes, taking anine-point lead into the second quarter.
A stunning assist from Ante Tomić opened the scoring on the eveningand set the pace for what was a dominant start from the visitors.
In the second quarter, David Nwaba kick-started London’s fight back which laid a marker down for an intense period in the game. Despite the host shaving an improved spell in the match, Badalona continued to appear as the more dominant team - taking a 40-30 score line into half time.
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A lot was hanging in the balance for both teams.
For London, victory would seek revenge whilst giving them a chance of finishing as a higher seed. For Badalona, a win would confirm their place in the Playoffs, which was something that they desperately craved.
Having been second best in the first half, the Lions needed to come out roaring in the third quarter - which was exactly what they did. However, despite putting up 25 points in the 10-minute period, London only outscored their opponents by two points.
Despite trailing by eight points heading into the final quarter, the hosts made it a level game with the two teams tied at 76-76.
With just over a minute left on the clock, a huge three-pointer saw the visitors take the lead once again. Matt Morgan’s quick burst of speed allowed him to tie the game again with seconds left, bringing a dose of belief back into the Copper Box stands.
However, in the dying embers, Badalona had possession and a chance toseal the game. The responsibility fell on the shoulders of Andres Feliz, whowon the match for his side in dramatic fashion at the buzzer.
Although it was heartbreak for London, it is another experience thatthey will learn from having shown heart to nearly mount another improbablecomeback.
Next up for the Brits is another tough EuroCup battle - this time facing Beşiktaş J.K. on home court.
Watch the highlights from London Lions vs Joventut Badalona here.
