Oblates lose out to Limerick in division one semi
LIMERICK Celtics showcased their dominance on the basketball court last weekend, securing a coveted spot in the InsureMyVan.ie Women’s Division 1 National Cup final with a resounding 68-47 victory over Oblate Dynamos at the Parochial Hall in Cork last Saturday reports Rory Merriman.
The game unfolded as a thrilling contest, with Celtics emerging as the dominant force in the second half, applying relentless pressure on their Dublin counterparts to clinch the well-deserved win.
The initial minutes saw Oblate Dynamos racing to a quicker start, capitalizing on Limerick Celtics’ early misses.
However, Celtics swiftly rebounded as Mikayla Brandon orchestrated an impressive lay-up, marking their entry onto the scoreboard.
The first quarter unfolded as a neck-and-neck battle, with Alaire Mayze of Oblate Dynamos and Samantha Coleman of Celtics trading remarkable three-pointers.
Despite the fierce competition, Celtics managed to maintain a slender lead, finishing the quarter 16-14 ahead.
The second quarter sustained the intensity, with both teams exchanging baskets.
Dynamos momentarily seized the lead with Ciara White and Sophie Stauton sinking crucial three-pointers.
Notably, the post moves from Mikayla Brandon and Sabhbh Edwards Murphy kept Limerick Celtics in contention.
As Dynamos accumulated five team fouls, Celtics capitalized on the opportunity, narrowing the gap.
The halftime score stood at 34-26 in Favour of Oblate Dynamos.
The third quarter witnessed a determined comeback from Limerick Celtics, led by Lucy Devoy, who scored nine unanswered points.
The lead swung back in Celtics’ favour at 42-37 by the end of the quarter.
The final quarter showcased a relentless defensive effort from Limerick Celtics, coupled with strategic free-throw opportunities earned through Dynamos’ fouls.
Mikayla Brandon, Lucy Devoy, and Sabhbh Edwards Murphy emerged as the top scorers, amassing 22, 18, and 15 points respectively.
As the game drew to a close, the exceptional defence and precision shots from Limerick Celtics solidified their lead, culminating in a triumphant 68- 47 victory.
This impressive performance catapults them into the Women’s Division 1 National Cup final in two weeks’ time.
The win was a testament to the team’s resilience, strategic plays, and individual brilliance, setting the stage for an exciting showdown in the upcoming final.
