Tralee Magic 61 - 55 Kilkenny Stars
What a turnaround! Tralee Magic delivered a second-half performance for the ages, overturning a nine-point halftime deficit to claim a sensational 61-55 victory over Kilkenny Stars in the U20 Women’s National Cup quarter-final.
A Tale of Two Halves
At halftime, the outlook for Tralee Magic looked challenging. The first-half report rightly pointed out the need to tighten defense, limit fouls, and find consistent scoring options. And did they deliver? Absolutely!
- Defense locked in: After allowing 26 first-half points, Tralee limited Kilkenny to just 29 points in the entire second half.
- Foul trouble managed: While fouls were still an issue (20 total), they avoided the costly free throws that had hurt them earlier.
- Offensive rhythm found: The concerns about Tralee’s struggles inside the paint and reliance on individual efforts were erased by a massive 25-point third quarter, led by Muireann Tehan and Mary Kate Smith.
Key Stats & Standout Performers
Tralee Magic:
- Muireann Tehan: 19 points, 2 three-pointers, a relentless force inside the paint.
- Mary Kate Smith: 11 points, 4/6 free throws, key defensive stops, and clutch shooting.
- Holly O’Brien: 11 points, 5/8 FT (63%), leading by example.
- Priya O’Donovan: 10 points, 100% FT accuracy, big plays in crucial moments.
- Anna O’Sullivan & Kelly Fitzgerald: Defensive anchors, shutting down Kilkenny’s shooters late in the game.
Kilkenny Stars:
- Faye McDonnell: 19 points, 7/11 FT (64%), led Kilkenny’s attack.
- Aoibhin Dunphy: 16 points, 4 three-pointers, keeping Kilkenny in the fight.
- Aimee O’Reilly: 12 points, strong offensive contributions.
How the Game Was Won (And How the Predictions Played Out!)
- “Tralee needs to reduce fouls” → Partially Achieved
- Fouls remained a factor (20 total), but Kilkenny couldn’t take full advantage in the second half.
- “Improve offensive execution” → Achieved
- The second-half offense clicked, with 44 points scored compared to just 17 in the first half.
- “Limit turnovers and create fast breaks” → Achieved
- Tralee forced mistakes from Kilkenny and converted them into quick points, particularly in the third quarter.
- “Find consistent scoring threats” → Achieved
- Tehan, Smith, O’Brien, and O’Donovan all stepped up, making Tralee a multi-dimensional offensive threat.
A Game Played in the Right Spirit
Kilkenny Stars played their hearts out and showed incredible sportsmanship throughout. Their skilled play pushed Tralee to their limits, and they deserve full credit for making this one of the best games of the season. A huge thank you to their players, coaches, and traveling supporters for bringing the energy and class to this battle. Safe travels home, and we hope to meet again soon!
On to the Semi-Finals!
Tralee Magic proved that predictions are just that—predictions. When the moment called for it, they delivered a performance full of heart, resilience, and belief. This team doesn’t quit. This team finds a way. And now, they march on to the next round!
#MagicMoments #NeverGiveUp #OnToTheSemis
