Tralee Magic’s U12 Division 1 girls kept their winning streak alive at home with a nail-biting 23–22 victory over St Mary’s T2 in Mounthawk, a game where every single quarter told a different story.

St Mary’s started the brighter of the two sides, punishing early turnovers to take a 10–7 lead after the first period. Magic settled after that initial spell, tightening up their defence and rebounding with far more intent. The second quarter was all about hustle from the girls in blue as they outscored St Mary’s 8–2, turning a three-point deficit into a 15–12 advantage at the half.

After the break the momentum swung again. St Mary’s came out aggressively, forcing Magic into some rushed possessions. The visitors edged the third quarter 8–2, leaving Magic trailing 17–20 and with plenty of work to do heading into the final eight minutes.

The response in the fourth quarter said everything about this group. Magic showed real composure, moved the ball with patience and found ways to attack the basket, putting together a 6–2 spell to flip the scoreboard once more and lead by six with just 1:30 left on the clock. St Mary’s refused to go away and hit a basket with two seconds remaining, cutting the gap to a single point, but Magic executed the final inbound calmly to close out a dramatic 23–22 win.

Across the four quarters, the girls showed that they can ride out runs, adjust to game and still find a way to get the job done. It was a proper Division 1 battle, played in great spirit, and another important step in their development as they continue this impressive winning streak. 💙