Taylor proves worth as Eagles hit form
This was a big result for Eagles, who suffered a lean period between the departure of Johnnie Jefferson and the arrival of Taylor, who made an immediate impact in their cup game and followed up with a starring role in yesterday’s win at Neptune Stadium.
“It was great to get the win,” coach Keenan admitted. “We pulled it out of the bag in the last few minutes but we should have been more ahead at half time.
“We can’t play like we did in the third quarter and get away with it too often. The pleasing aspect is we held Neptune to 71 points, which is not an easy thing to do after the way they have been putting up big scores recently.”
UCC Demons became the first Southern Conference team to defeat Moycullen at home this season with a 67-59 victory on Saturday night.
“I think it is a great win on the road,” Demons’ coach, Paul Kelleher, said.
“I find it strange when people think that winning away to Moycullen is a given despite the fact they have already beaten Neptune and UL Eagles at home this season. You have to be ready to come here and play because they are an extremely good side.”
Some excellent three-pointers from James Donnelly in the first half helped DCU Saints to a seven-point lead at half time against UCD Marian and they never looked back en route to a 96-84 win.
“We wanted to bounce back after the disappointment of going out of the cup — we didn’t want it to take away from the great season we are having in the league,” Saints’ coach David Donnelly said.
At the top of the Northern Conference, 11890 Killester kept Saints in their sights with an 88-81 win at home to a much improved Belfast Star.
“A win is a win no matter what and we needed that going into the game away to UL Eagles,” Killester coach Darren O’Neill admitted,
“[UL coach] Mark Keenan was watching so he will probably be setting his plans for next week.”
In the Nivea Women’s SuperLeague, UL coach James Weldon paid tribute to Michelle Fahy after she returned to help her side to an emphatic 63-43 win away to fellow title chasers DCU Mercy.
“I have to give Michelle great credit,” he said.
“She trained for the first time in five weeks this week and she was excellent. She brings a great calming influence to the team.”
Elsewhere, the battle of the newcomers saw Singleton’s SuperValu Brunell beat Ulster Rockets 73-71 in another thrilling contest, while Team Montenotte Hotel won a titanic tussle with 11890 Killester, 72-61.
Waterford Wildcats enjoyed a comprehensive 76-46 win over Oblate Dynamos.
CONNECT WITH US TODAY
Be the first to know the latest news and updates
