Ahmad Firas Masri of Syria jumps for a basket during his side's win in Doha
Syria began their campaign in Group C of the men’s basketball tournament at the 15th Asian Games with an 84-66 win over battling Afghanistan in a game in which they led from start to finish.
They were briefly given a scare in the final quarter when Afghanistan cut the deficit to 64-59, but a run of 18 consecutive points sealed the win for Syria and left coach Basel Hamwi generally happy with the performance.
“Our team made two or three mistakes, such as conceding 20 turnovers and some errors on the free throws,” he said. “I also want to change some aspects of our defence, but we can do that before the next game and overall I am pleased.”
Meanwhile Afghanistan coach Zabi Sublt said: “I am absolutely proud. It is our first time here and you just wait until you see us next time. You saw how close we came and the good support we had and these results will mean a lot back home.”
Syria had begun strongly against Afghanistan, who had been buoyed by an emotional win over Hong Kong, China on their return to international basketball on Thursday, and limited their opponents to few scoring chances to lead 22-11 at the end of the 1st quarter.
However a superb dribble and lay-up from Afghanistan guard Sulaiman Aziz seemed to invigorate his team when they trailed 15-3 and give their passionate following something to cheer about.
Afghanistan produced a spirited 2nd quarter display to stay in touch and trail only 43-31 at half time, although their cause was not helped by the high number of personal fouls picked up by players.
For Syria meanwhile guard Mohd Sharif Sharif led the way with 15 points, while centre Wissam Yakoub, standing at 7ft tall, was proving a strong physical presence in the side and broke up numerous Afghanistan attacks.
Two consecutive three pointers in the dying seconds of the 3rd quarter by captain Yosuof Etemadi and fellow guard Abdullah Karimi brought Afghanistan back to trail only 62-53 and give their supporters hope of a comeback.
