BASKETBALL: Huskies’ focus turns to play-offS

UL Huskies have all but locked up the Nivea Women’s SuperLeague title with an assured performance in Waterford that saw them defeat WIT Wildcats 68-61.

Despite the close final scoreline, UL were by far the better team throughout. After establishing a commanding 22-9 lead after the first quarter, they always looked like pushing on and sealing victory. Head coach James Weldon praised his team’s ability to stay focused despite the fact preparations recently have been geared towards the post-season.

“We had a look at our strength and conditioning again and lifted quite heavy this week getting ready for play-offs so I’m happy with where we are at,” he said. “We play DCU next week and might face Waterford again in the play-offs so great to get the win on the road against them when we might see them in our place in a few weeks.”

Barring two losses to end the regular season, Huskies are locked into the first seed in the play-offs, gifting them home-court advantage and a favourable draw.

Their advantage last night came through the fine shooting of Rachel Clancy and Rachel Vanderwal, who lit it up from outside early on.

While fine play from Sinead Deegan, in particular, closed the gap for the home side down the stretch, the result was never in doubt as a double digit gap remained with a minute to go.

The consolation baskets at the end will stand to Wildcats confidence, however, as this performance marked a definite improvement from the cup showing where Huskies blew them off the court.

WIT Wildcats 61 (27) (C Kavanagh 13, S Deegan 13, T Condrey 12)

UL Huskies 68 (43) (R Vanderwal 16, R Clancy 14, M Fahy 10)

Picture: Rachel Vanderwal of UL Huskies in action. Picture: SPORTSFILE