Team Nationals and Ngerkesoaol showed grace under pressure as they nailed separate victories Friday night in the ongoing 2012 season of the IP&E Amateur Basketball League (ABL) at the Palau National gym.

The Nationals showed their youthful advantage as they went on to beat the Cardinals, 89-86. It was a nail biting game as both teams fought bravely with their defense and offense. The game was tied at 86-all in the dying second of the game when RB Dorado scored on a crucial basket to give them an 88-86 lead.

CJ then nailed the dagger in the Cardinals hope of a comeback as he split his free throws to give the Nationals its first victory in the tournament. Dorado topscored for the Nationals with 22 while Marvic Ngchar added 17 as Johnson Sicat paced the Cardinals with 22 on the losing end.

On the other hand, Ngerkesoaol went on to beat Dngeronger, 69-49 as Visa led Ngerkesoaol with 25 while teammate Kent Moore had 20 as Raul Osias tallied 10 for Dngeronger.

In other games, Spoilers downed Ikelauans, 84-63; Airwaves beat On Fire, 69-56; Stingers won over 4x4 Wheelers, 81-77; and Aqua Smooth defeated Surangel Kings, 72-66.

Games resume tonight with Ikelauans versus PPR Shark Attack at 6 p.m. followed by the Airwaves-Surangel Kings tussle at 7:30 p.m. while the Cardinals meet PCC Mesekiu at 9 p.m. Tomorrow’s games will have 4x4 Wheelers against Aqua Smooth at 6 p.m. as Rivals will face On Fire at 7:30 p.m. and Ididers will be pitted against Spoilers in the main game at 9 p.m.

Thursday games will feature the Nationals taking Dngeronger at 6 p.m. as B.O.G. will battle Stingers at 7:30 p.m. while Mesang Red Storm will meet Ngerkesoaol at 9 p.m.

The tournament is a tobacco, alcohol and drug free program. All violators will be banned from participating. For more information call Topps at 488-4491.  By Peter Erick L. Magbanua (Island Times News)