In the only Cambodian Basketball League game on Sunday evening, newcomers MSGM Beasts recovered from a slow start to down defending champions Mekong Tigers 71-63 at the Olympic Stadium Indoor Arena.

Despite taking the first quarter to warm up, Beasts outscored Tigers in the next three to record their second win of the season in as many matches. This was Tigers third loss in four outings.

After gaining a 11-point lead in the opening stanza, Tigers had a tough time in the second, though they led 31-29 at half-time.

For Tigers, Nang was in great form and eventually was the side’s top scorer with 30 points, but Beasts used clever rotations to ensure that all their players got on the scoresheet. That made a huge difference with Tan Hong Kwan 16 points leading the collective effort.

Just two points separated the two sides at the end of the third quarter but Beasts pulled clear in the last 10 minutes to win by an impressive margin.

With two wins out of two, Beasts are shaping up as strongly fancied outsiders, while the Tigers feel the desperate need to turn around their form.

Midweek fixtures

Today: Smart Dragons v ALLN

Tomorrow: Pinoy Rhythm v Team Respeck

Thursday: Davies Paint v Bayon Airlines

Friday: Extra Joss Fighters v Blue Thunder