Flames beat Moni Plus to claim fifth PMBL title

By JACK AMI
SOUTHERN Flames created history going unbeaten throughout the season and then claiming their fifth straight premiership after beating Moni Plus 112-94 in Game 2 at the Taurama Aquatic Centre last night.
The Kutubu Security Services-sponsored Flames started their title-winning run in 2014.
Led in large part by the Muri clan with four players Apia, Purari, Orbert and Cornelius Muri as well as coach Moi Muri, the Southerners had too much class for Moni Plus (formerly Tamaraws).
The Flames won Game 1, 92-78, on Monday night and cruised to another title crossing the 100-point threshold and leaving an 18-point margin in their wake.
Deputy Prime Minister Charles Abel, who played for Alotau at the recent All Stars titles, did the official toss to start proceedings.
The Flames led from the outset never allowing their opponents get ahead at any stage.
The quarter time scores saw the Flames lead: 21-17, 53-37, 54-49 and 112-94
Flames power forward Charles Parapa netted a game high 32 points while fellow forward Moses Lune contributed 27 points and and centre Apia Muri bagged 24 with support from Muris Purari Muri, Orbert and Cornelius Muri.
Moni Plus were forced to play catch up and at one stage in the second quarter they were level at 32-32 but they could not sustain the intensity and could not cope with the Flames high tempo style.
Moni Plus top scorer was guard Mark Palisco, who hit 24, and centre James Banduru who added 17 while expereinced hands Robert Kave and Greg Travertz were stretched on the defensive end.