Killester win Demons showdown to maintain unbeaten start
DART Killester lead the visitors 44-37 at half time built on that advantage for a sensational victory.
Demons had four players fouled out in what proved to be a tense affair with Dart’s new signings Jim Grabowski and Michael Bonaparte each netting 27 points.
Bonaparte, who recently returned from the financial crisis in Iceland, said he was delighted to be back with the club and part of DART’s push for the championship.
“It was a great game, we were well up for it,” said Bonaparte. “Mark (Keenan) had us well briefed on the threat Demons possess and he turned out to be correct.
“You can see why they were unbeaten coming into this game, they are very physical and have a great coach in Douglas Leichner. For myself, I am delighted to be back in Ireland. I now realise how much I am appreciated here by the supporters and everyone at the club and it’s a great feeling.”
Demons Coach Douglas Leichner paid tribute to DART and also to the performance of his own player Colin O’Reilly, who topped off another huge display with a game high of 32 points.
“They (DART Killester) were calm, poised and confident throughout the game,” said Leichner. “They did not deviate from their game plan and executed flawlessly.
“UCC Demons will learn and grow from this game. We must be mentally tough on the road and not let external factors affect our play.”
Abrakebabra Tigers’ losing streak continued on Saturday as they were undone by a Hoops side who produced a fine final quarter display to win 70-61. It was a final quarter collapse which saw Tigers go almost six minutes without a score.
Ahead by three going into the last, Tigers went 11 down as their opponents put together 14 points on the bounce.
Limerick Lions edged out Ulster Elks in a competitive and very closely fought basketball game in Limerick’s UL Arena on a scoreline of 74-72. The game was tied going into the last 30 seconds when Limerick’s Sean Coffey stepped up to give Limerick the lead.
DCU Saints earned an overtime win over Belfast Star. Mike Trimmer produced another fine showing with 26 points. The game finished 67-67 after normal time before the Saints held their visitors scoreless as they secured an 80-67 win.
UCD/Marian maintained their impressive start with a tough 73-61 win away to Neptune in Sunday’s other clash. UCD’s David Ryan top scored on 22 points.
Team Montenotte Hotel join DCU Mercy at the top of Basketball Ireland’s Womens Superleague after a 82-60 victory over Meteors, while UL Aughinish proved too strong away to DART Killester on a scoreline of 52-42.
Waterford Wildcats earned the points at home to LeisureWorld Churchfield IONA (86-72) with recent signing Melanie Thomas grabbing 32 points.
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