Battle is on for league playoff spots

TONIGHT is PNG Ports Saints chance to level the series with pre-match favourites Exodus in the second match of the best of three series in the PNG Men’s Basketball League premier division at the Sir John Guise indoor stadium.
Saints were rattled in the first match 105-76 by their opponents and need to avenge that disastrous loss to force a decider to determine a grand playoff qualifier.
If Exodus wins, they march to the grand final but if Saints level, a decider will have to be played on Thursday.
Moni Plus Tamaraws are awaiting the outcome of this match to play the loser.
Prize money of K10,000 is up for grabs and a trip to compete in the Fiji National Club championship as an added bonus for the champion franchise.
Winless Propest Chariots are out of the race.
FIBA Oceania secretary-general Steve Smith and zone development manager Annie La Fleur will watch the playoff tonight.
They will then make an assessment of the standard and level as well as shooting a video for screening to improve skills in preparation for 2015 Pacific Games and PMBL competition.
Exodus, with the Muri brothers – Dia, Apia, Purari- Peter Davani and Raymond Elai are determined to continue their unbeaten run.
Head coach Moi Muri relies on his winning combination to start the opening quarter and he will not want to play catch up.
Saints, without Mika Loko and Terry Melepia Junior back in Lae for studies at Unitech, have a disadvantage with head coach Tasman Samuel trying to find the right combination.
Players like the Kala brothers Sibona, Donald, Veuga Taviri, Tony Haro and veteran Lawrence Lahari should maintain their composure from first quarter.