Lakers take series lead

LA Lakers 96-91 Philadelphia 76ers

Battle-lines drawn: Shaquille O'Neal of the LA Lakers checks a run by Dikembo Mutombo of Philadelphia

No way out: O'Neal (l) finds his path blocked by the 76ers Allan Iverson during the early exchanges

Lift-off: Kobe Bryant attempts to basket three points and extend the Lakers' lead

Anxious moments: 76ers coach Larry Brown offers his team encouragement

You cannot be serious!: Bryant (l) watches Iverson(r) dispute a foul decision with the referee

Shaque attack: Despite Mutombo's (l) best efforts, O'Neal's Lakers secured victory by a narrow margin