The Army Men's game was impeccable at times, scoring half the points from open play and showing great defensive moves, plus not missing opportunities to rebound.

Matiaz Smodis scored 12 points and 5 rebounds in a first half that finished with a 12 point lead for the Muscovites.

But while Khimki looked a lot less organized in the first part of the match, the team was certainly transformed in the last twenty minutes of the game.

The tables were turned in the third quarter with the home team finally regaining their defensive ability, allowing just 7 points in their basket while scoring a mighty 22 at the other end to take their first lead of the match.

At this stage, Khimki domination was visible both on and off the court. It was as if the fans at the sold out arena would simply not understand it if their team wasted this chance to stay in the playoffs.

And Khimki delivered 100 per cent as CSKA was not to lead for the remainder of the match.

The Army Men still had a chance to grab their 7th consecutive title in this very match after they equalized a minute before the buzzer.

But Khimki scored another three to take a 67-64 lead.

And this is where a scandal erupted. For some odd reason, Khimki's Palacio fouled on Shishkauskas on the last second when he was throwing a last hope three-pointer from half court.

The referee pointed to the free throw line, indicating that three shots must be taken at which point the infamous Sergio Scariolo ran on the court in protest, risking a technical foul which, if awarded, would have meant another 2 free throws against Khimki.

However none of the above took place. The referees decided to call it a night after only two free throws declaring victory for Khimki, 67-66.

So, at least for now, CSKA leads the series 2-1. But an official protest has already been filed by the Army men who feel that they've cheated out of a title.

The next game in the best-of-five series is to be played on May 25 on Khimki’s pitch.