Venue: Mounthawk Gym, Tralee
Final Score: Tralee Magic 58 - 29 Portlaoise Panthers
Tralee Magic advanced to the final of the U18 Women’s National Cup Qualifiers with a convincing performance against Portlaoise Panthers in the first semi-final of Day 2. Predicted to have the edge with their home-court advantage and strong performances from Day 1, Tralee Magic lived up to expectations with another impressive display.
The game started closely contested, with Tralee leading by a narrow margin of 7-6 at the end of the first quarter as both teams showcased solid defense. As the game progressed, Tralee’s depth and offensive consistency began to shine. By halftime, they had extended their lead to 21-15, setting the tone for the second half.
Key Performers for Tralee Magic:
Lucy Walsh (#15) led the scoring with an outstanding 26 points, hitting 10 two-point shots and anchoring Tralee’s offense with consistent scoring.
Chloe O'Driscoll (#4) and Katie Quinlan (#5) contributed significantly with 22 and 18 points respectively, providing key shots and maintaining control throughout the game.
Priya O'Donovan (#10) added 6 points, showcasing her efficiency by making both of her 2-point attempts and 100% from the free-throw line. Her contributions were instrumental in keeping Tralee’s offense balanced and effective.
For Portlaoise Panthers, the final score doesn’t fully reflect their effort and resilience. They played with determination, particularly in the first half, staying competitive and matching Tralee’s intensity. Sophie Staunton (#67) led Portlaoise with 22 points, putting in a tremendous effort with seven 2-point shots and a strong presence on the court. Hannah Byrne (#17) added 15 points, supporting Staunton and showcasing Portlaoise’s fighting spirit.
Reflections on the Prediction:
Our prediction highlighted Tralee’s depth and home-court advantage, which ultimately gave them the edge. However, Portlaoise Panthers demonstrated remarkable resilience and competitiveness, especially in the early stages, making it a hard-fought and engaging game. Their spirited performance deserves recognition, as they played with heart and determination.
Looking Ahead:
With this victory, Tralee Magic will now face Glanmire in the final, set for 12:00 PM at Mounthawk Gym. Glanmire, who won their semi-final against Oblate Dynamos at St. Brendan’s Hall in Moyderwell, will be a formidable opponent, setting up an exciting showdown. Both teams have shown great skill and determination throughout the tournament, and the final promises to be a thrilling contest.
A big thank you goes out to both teams, coaches, referees, table officials, and the supportive crowd for making this semi-final a memorable event. Special thanks to the volunteers working tirelessly behind the scenes, and to our neighbors at St. Brendan’s Hall in Moyderwell for providing their venue for the second semi-final. Let’s pack the Mounthawk Gym for the final and cheer on Tralee Magic as they take on Glanmire for the National Cup title!
Final Score: Tralee Magic 58 - 29 Portlaoise Panthers
Tralee Magic advanced to the final of the U18 Women’s National Cup Qualifiers with a convincing performance against Portlaoise Panthers in the first semi-final of Day 2. Predicted to have the edge with their home-court advantage and strong performances from Day 1, Tralee Magic lived up to expectations with another impressive display.
The game started closely contested, with Tralee leading by a narrow margin of 7-6 at the end of the first quarter as both teams showcased solid defense. As the game progressed, Tralee’s depth and offensive consistency began to shine. By halftime, they had extended their lead to 21-15, setting the tone for the second half.
Key Performers for Tralee Magic:
Lucy Walsh (#15) led the scoring with an outstanding 26 points, hitting 10 two-point shots and anchoring Tralee’s offense with consistent scoring.
Chloe O'Driscoll (#4) and Katie Quinlan (#5) contributed significantly with 22 and 18 points respectively, providing key shots and maintaining control throughout the game.
Priya O'Donovan (#10) added 6 points, showcasing her efficiency by making both of her 2-point attempts and 100% from the free-throw line. Her contributions were instrumental in keeping Tralee’s offense balanced and effective.
For Portlaoise Panthers, the final score doesn’t fully reflect their effort and resilience. They played with determination, particularly in the first half, staying competitive and matching Tralee’s intensity. Sophie Staunton (#67) led Portlaoise with 22 points, putting in a tremendous effort with seven 2-point shots and a strong presence on the court. Hannah Byrne (#17) added 15 points, supporting Staunton and showcasing Portlaoise’s fighting spirit.
Reflections on the Prediction:
Our prediction highlighted Tralee’s depth and home-court advantage, which ultimately gave them the edge. However, Portlaoise Panthers demonstrated remarkable resilience and competitiveness, especially in the early stages, making it a hard-fought and engaging game. Their spirited performance deserves recognition, as they played with heart and determination.
Looking Ahead:
With this victory, Tralee Magic will now face Glanmire in the final, set for 12:00 PM at Mounthawk Gym. Glanmire, who won their semi-final against Oblate Dynamos at St. Brendan’s Hall in Moyderwell, will be a formidable opponent, setting up an exciting showdown. Both teams have shown great skill and determination throughout the tournament, and the final promises to be a thrilling contest.
A big thank you goes out to both teams, coaches, referees, table officials, and the supportive crowd for making this semi-final a memorable event. Special thanks to the volunteers working tirelessly behind the scenes, and to our neighbors at St. Brendan’s Hall in Moyderwell for providing their venue for the second semi-final. Let’s pack the Mounthawk Gym for the final and cheer on Tralee Magic as they take on Glanmire for the National Cup title!
