By Eurohoops Team / info@eurohoops.net
After an incredible game to watch, Panathinaikos defeated Fenerbahce thanks to Nikos Pappas’ game-winner. The two coaches, Xavi Pascual and Zeljko Obradovic had some things to say about the game, their team and the result.
Zeljko Obradovic talked about the game and Nikos Pappas’ game-winner.
“I believe we played really good, but Panathinaikos starting with Calathes and especially Pappas were really aggressive. In the first half we had 7 turnovers and 5 steals but in the second half, we did not have a steal but continued with 7 turnovers. They had seven more possessions which were crucial for the game in the second half. Great shot from Pappas, congratulations to him for his performance! We played very slow in the second half and congratulations to Panathinaikos.
Coach Obradovic also commented on the final possession of the game: “In our last possession, the referees did not call two fouls. Actually three. The game is not decided by their decisions but the refs did not do their job well, ” he stated. Finally, he took a moment to thank Panathinaikos, their staff, and the fans.
Coach Xavi Pascual for Panathinaikos also had some things to say about the game.
“First of all thank you to the fans for their support. Without them, it would have been impossible to win this game. Thank you and congratulations. It was a very nice game to watch. In the second half, we changed the rhythm of the game, because we improved our defense and we managed to come back. When Fenerbahce increased their lead to 8-points, we believed that we could turn the game around and Nikos Pappas’ shot was crucial for the game’s result.”
The Spanish coach added by saying: “We played really bad in Moscow and Barcelona but it is difficult for us to face teams of that quality. In the second half we turned the season around, but without Pappas’ shot, nothing would have happened. Now we have to prepare for the game in Baskonia against a good team with a new coach.”