KAUNAS, Lithuania — Žalgiris have fallen further behind the leaders, going down 78-84 to Fenerbahce Ulker in their latest group 1 Euroleague match-up.

The loss all but spells the end of Žalgiris in Europe this year with the boys from Kaunas facing little hope of now proceeding to the round of 16. It has been a disappointing campaign for Žalgiris, who have continued to shine in the Baltic Basketball League and the Lithuanian League.

In front of a healthy crowd of just under 4,500 it was the home side that took the early initiative, leading by one (24-23) by the end of the first quarter and six by halftime (43-37).

Žalgiris seemed to think that it was already job well done at half time, looking complacent as they took the court for the second-half. Fenerbahce Ulker were quick to pounce and produced a strong third quarter to not only fight their way back in the game but take a two point lead going into the final quarter (59-57).

Unfortunately for players and fan alike, there was no coming back for Žalgiris from here with Fenerbahce Ulker building on their lead to end up winning the game comfortably by six (84-78).

For the guests Damir Kaan Mrsic led the way with 16 but he was more than ably supported from his team in an all-round performance that saw a further five players finish in double figures. For Žalgiris Martynas Pocius led the way of the bench, contributing 19 points.

Following the game Žalgiris head coach Gintaras Krapikas acknowledged that it was a very important game that they had lost, believing that ultimately their 11 first half mistakes was their great undoing.