The visitors did not have long to rejoice about their offensive spurt.

To Viola, who pitched eight scoreless innings and earned a no-decision against the Pirates five days ago, the offensive spurt looked like an explosion.

"That gave them the offensive spurt to get it going," Phelps conceded.

Now, they are an exciting club, given to explosive offensive spurts and defensive letdowns.

Aside from the late offensive spurt, defense ruled the day for both teams.

The change promptly opened up a serious offensive spurt by the blue-shirted home team.

"A typical offensive spurt for us," said Teufel, laughing dryly.

Using their best offensive spurt to that point, the Knicks built a 64-56 lead with 4:17 left in the third quarter.

Other teams have offensive spurts.

It was an unusual offensive spurt because Charles Oakley played a major part in it.