Kotwica Kolobrzeg held off Polonia Bytom 91-87 on the road in Poland’s 1st Division, surviving a late comeback to secure a hard-fought victory. The visitors led for most of the game but had to withstand a furious fourth-quarter push from Polonia. Kotwica’s poise at the free-throw line and their ability to make winning plays down the stretch proved the difference.

Match overview

Kotwica started strongly and led 24-20 after the first quarter. The visitors extended their advantage to 47-42 at halftime and maintained a 72-66 lead heading into the final period. Polonia refused to go away, cutting the deficit to 85-87 with under a minute remaining. However, Kotwica made four straight free throws in the closing seconds to seal the win. The final score of 91-87 reflected a competitive contest that was decided by small margins.

Key moments

The decisive sequence came with 40 seconds left, when Polonia had a chance to tie the game but missed a contested three-pointer. Kotwica grabbed the rebound and converted two free throws at the other end. Polonia’s final attempt fell short, and Kotwica added another pair of free throws to secure the victory. The visitors’ composure in the final minute was the difference in a game where both teams traded momentum.

Tactical story

Kotwica’s three-point shooting gave them an edge, as they connected on 12 attempts from beyond the arc. They also forced 16 Polonia turnovers and scored 19 points off those mistakes. Polonia won the rebounding battle and dominated inside, but their perimeter shooting let them down in the fourth quarter. Kotwica’s ability to protect the ball and execute in late-game situations proved crucial.

Standout players

• Patryk Nowak (Kotwica): 25 points and 6 assists, controlling the offense throughout.
• Marcin Lewandowski (Kotwica): 17 points and 11 rebounds, providing a strong inside presence.
• Jakub Kowalczyk (Polonia): 23 points and 8 rebounds, leading the hosts’ comeback attempt.
• Mateusz Szymański (Polonia): 16 points, including three three-pointers in the second half.

Season impact

Kotwica’s road win strengthens their position in the Poland 1st Division standings and gives them confidence for the next stretch of games. Polonia Bytom will be disappointed to lose a close home game, especially after fighting back in the fourth quarter. The result highlights Kotwica’s ability to close out tight contests, while Polonia must focus on late-game execution and perimeter shooting.