The Academy playoffs begin with game 1 of the quarter-finals scheduled for tomorrow at 7pm at PalaPergola.
After closing the regular season at the top in cohabitation with Antoniana, Caiazzo and Parete, the rossoblù receive a visit from the difficult Polisportiva Portici 2000, capable of inflicting by far the worst defeat on Pace and his companions, in terms of the final gap, of the first phase, no later than two weeks ago.
In fact, at the Palasport in Via Farina, coach Massaro’s team prevailed 78-56 at the end of a match that the Potenza players were able to approach well (12-21; 28-34 scores in the first two quarters), only to collapse unexpectedly in the second half.
A real slap that left an impression Potenza has the obligation to absorb and redeem in the first match of the post-season, in order to channel this first round in the right direction with a repeat in Campania on Wednesday 24th at 7.30pm.
In truth, with roles reversed, there was little story even in the first leg match, when the Lucanians were ahead by over thirty points eight minutes from the end only to close the match on +13 (75-62), but it’s all It’s another Portici, also thanks to the addition of Marra, the one that has been seen from a certain moment onwards, with a roster capable of coming out of the back of the rankings and climbing the rankings up to the final sixth place.
The two clubs face each other for the ninth time starting from March 2021 and the balance, needless to say, is tied: 4-4 with an away win each.
”Portici is an expert team for this category and capable of giving anyone a hard time, as evidenced by the resounding defeat two weeks ago – argues Captain Peppe Pace on the eve – especially when playing at home, the great balance of the regular season will also be reflected in these playoffs, the details will make the difference and those who play without the advantage of home advantage will be free from pressure and capable of creating difficulties for their opponents”, concluded the long rossoblù before the last training session.
Tap-off at 7.00 pm with free entry, the match will be refereed by Messrs. Cusano and Venga from Avellino.
