LIMERICK Celtics are the only South Conference team remaining in the hunt for this season’s Domino’s Men’s Division One title, the top seeds and President’s National Cup winners copper-fastening their place in playoff semi-finals after they emerged comprehensive 112-71 winners over Drogheda Wolves at Crescent College.
Limerick had just too much firepower for the visitors, with Finn Hughes and Abdul Wurie both finishing on double doubles, as they combined for 48 points and 24 rebounds.
Women’s Division One will serve up a mouthwatering playoff semi-final derby after both Limerick Sport Huskies and Limerick Celtics secured further passage through to the last four on Saturday.
Huskies came through a tough test from a tenacious Templeogue to emerge 70-59 winners in St Munchin’s College.
Delia Moore pocketed some important points from the free-throw line down the stretch to keep the visitors at bay, as she and Scout Frame both finished up on 14, with Orlaith Woods on 17.
“Templeogue really put it up to us and we had to dig deep, tidy up our offence and get more disciplined on defence to keep hold on the game” admitted Trevor Moore, Limerick Sport Huskies head coach.
“We got there in the end and now head for our fourth derby of the season to see if we can make it on to the finals weekend in Dublin,” he added.
A huge second-quarter turnaround saw Celtics chalk up a 79-66 success against Abbey Seals Dublin Lions at Crescent College.
Outscoring their Dublin rivals by 29 points in that second period, Limerick took command with Stephanie McBride and Shelby Harmeyer both emerging on a double doubles as they totalled 30 points and 24 rebounds, while team mate, Amy Buckley put up 21 points.
“It was a fantastic team win, and having four players scoring in double digits was a major factor,” stressed Jordan Hehir, Celtics head coach.
“We played excellent defence and the young girls came off the bench and made a huge impact.
“We’re delighted with the win and we’re now focusing on the challenge of Huskies next week which will, no doubt, be a great game” he predicted.
