RIO DE JANEIRO (Campeonato Nacional) - Four clubs sit at the top of the Brazilian Campeonato Nacional's semi-final play-off standings with identical records following the third round of matches.
Each of Franca, Ribeirao Preto, Universo and Bandeirantes/Rio Claro have earned five points so far after recording two victories and a defeat from their three matches.
Telemar are fifth in the hexagonal competition with four points while Ulbra/Torres are bottom on three points after losing all of their matches.
Bandeirantes/Rio Claro had won both their opening two games but they suffered their first defeat after going down 72-62 to Franca.
Vargas poured in 16 points for the victors while his team-mate Fabiao added six points and 14 rebounds. The match also marked a Campeonato Nacional-record 490th appearance for Franca's Rogerio.
"I am tremendously happy to have played 490 matches in the Campeonato Nacional," Rogerio said.
"Since I made my debut, in 1990, I have picked up a lot of victories, although this recent victory is vital for the 2006 title. I still have a lot to give to the Campeonato Nacional."
Universo were also victorious in the third round, downing Ulbra/Torres 95-84 while Ribeirao Preto picked up a 106-92 win at home to Telemar.
Telemar's loss was tough on Arnaldinho, who poured in a game-high 33 points, nine more than the leading player from Ribeirao Preto - Nezinho.
Nezinho admits it was a crucial win for his side.
"We started the match knowing that we needed a victory," he said.
"It was a difficult match, although we obtained a positive result. Against Universo, we need to improve our team concentration to maintain our level throughout
the entire 40 minutes."
PA Sport