Charles stars in Slingers' victory
The Singapore Slingers returned to winning ways in the Asean Basketball League (ABL), with a 72-65 triumph over the Formosa Dreamers yesterday at the OCBC Arena.
Two-time ABL World Import MVP Christien Charles top-scored for the home team with 34 points, while swingman Xavier Alexander contributed 16, to erase memories of their 69-82 reverse at home to the Alab Pilipinas on Feb 4.
Neo Beng Siang's team, who move up to 8-7, will host Saigon Heat next on Feb 25.
Highest ranked but netballers finish last
Singapore finished fourth at the Hong Kong Four Nations Netball Tournament yesterday.
Played in a round-robin format, Singapore suffered a 26-40 loss in their opening match against Ireland. They edged out hosts Hong Kong 40-36 and drew 44-44 with Grenada to set up a second meeting in the third-place play-off, where they eventually lost 44-52 to end bottom.
In the final, Ireland emerged champions after a 31-27 victory over Hong Kong. Held at the Kowloon Park Sports Centre from Thursday to yesterday, it was the Republic's first tournament of the year.
World No. 19 Singapore were the highest-ranked team, ahead of Ireland (22), Grenada (23) and the hosts (24).
Late arrival Kiradech wins Perth event
PERTH • Thailand's Kiradech Aphibarnrat rode his luck to claim the US$1.75 million (S$2.33 million) Handa World Super 6 title yesterday.
The unique tournament saw the top 24 players after the third round compete in matchplay yesterday.
The 28-year-old, who was the last qualifier, beat Australian battler James Nitties 2 and 1 in the final. The world No. 53 had never seen the course before his first round on Thursday and had arrived in Perth only late the day before.
AGENCE FRANCE-PRESSE
