Maharashtra went down fighting to Bhavnagar Youngsters from Gujarat 69-73 in a closely fought men's Group B league match of the 10th Savio Cup All-India basketball tournament for men and women, sponsored by United Phosphorous and co-sponsored by Tridhaatu Realty Infra at Don (Matunga) yesterday. The defeat ended Maharashtra's run in the tournament.

In an evenly balanced match of fluctuating fortunes, during which the lead changed hands repeatedly, Bhavnagar trailed by six points (46-52) at the end of the third quarter. However, the visitors produced a strong performance in the fourth quarter, scoring an impressive 27 points to clinch a thrilling victory, their second in this group and book their berth in the last four round. Bhavnagar Youngsters had earlier defeated Punjab in their opening match.