The dream of the playoffs becomes terribly complicated for Nuova Pallacanestro Marsala, which leaves the home court defeated in the direct clash against CUS Palermo. In a tense and vibrant PalaMedipower, the Lilibetans lost 69-71, a result which, just four days before the end of the Serie C regular season, significantly distances them from fifth place in the standings.
The Azzurri’s approach to the match was one of the best, with a dominated first quarter thanks to a 21-13 run which augured a favorable evening. However, in the second period the light went out: an excess of individualism and a drop in defensive tension allowed the Palermitans to forcefully return to the match. With a partial of 12-24, the guests not only mended the gap, but went into the long break with a four-point lead.
In the second half the match turned into a real battle of nerves. Marsala tried to get back on top with pride, grabbing a few points in the third quarter and always remaining in contact with their opponents. The last fraction was a succession of emotions, but the clarity failed right at the most beautiful moment. Despite 22 points from an inspired Allegri and 18 from Viversys, the team paid a high price for some carelessness in the last one hundred and fifty seconds of the game, also thanks to the accumulated tiredness.
The epilogue was one of the most bitter: the last possession for the possible overtaking ended up in the hands of Viversys, but the winning ball went off on the rim, choking the Marsala crowd’s scream in their throats. In addition to the performances of Allegri and Viversys, Donato’s 16 points and Niang’s 10 remain in the final scoreboard, numbers which however are not enough to assuage the regret for a golden opportunity that was lost within the friendly walls.
Now Serie C stops for the Christmas break, offering Marsala the time necessary to recharge their batteries and reflect on the mistakes made. The restart is set for January 11, 2026 in the difficult away match in Gioia Tauro: an inside or outside match where it will be mandatory to win to continue to hope for a useful position for the post-season.
