Barcelona have forced a winner-take-all game five at the Palau Blaugrana after they defeated Real Madrid 81-75.
Slovenian Erazem Lorbek was the difference between the two sides as he hit 24 points to lead the Catalans but despite pressure from the hosts, Barcelona managed to keep their noses in front for the majority of the contest.
The all-round play of Barcelona was there for all to see, five players registered double-figure scores personal. Pete Mickeal hit 13 points and eight rebounds, two off a double-double. CJ Wallace also grabbed 16 points, helping his side to victory.
Facing an intense pro-Barcelona crowd on Saturday won’t be an easy task for Madrid coach Pablo Laso, but they deservedly took game two thanks to a professional and calm performance, so they will fancy their chances no doubt as the 2012 Liga Endesa title goes to a final game.
Real Madrid were led by Nikola Mirotic, who contributed 14 points but it was to be a day where their leading scorers and leaders didn’t show up. The free scoring Jaycee Carroll was held to just four points and missing all five of the three-point attempts. Felipe Reyes, hit six points but was off the pace after his dominating display in game three where he hit all seven of his two-point tries.
Game five will be on Saturday night.
