Irish boys chances dented

A 40-63 defeat to Finland has seriously dented the Irish Cadets hopes of qualification to the semi-final round of the European Championships.

Only a victory over group leaders Italy could qualify Ireland.

Ireland built up an early 6-0 lead, with Niall Morrissey and Darren Randolph on fire before a big three from Latimer brought Finland into the game. Ireland held their lead 13-9 at the end of the quarter.

Iceland levelled the game at 13-points in the first minute of the second quarter, and despite Ireland remaining scoreless for three minutes, the game remained basket for basket.

Disaster struck for Ireland when Ciaran White was carried off the court with a suspected fractured ankle but Ireland edged a 1-point lead 25-24 at half time.

Iceland went on a run of 6-points in a low scoring third quarter, Ireland once again scoreless for several minutes. Randolph picked up his fourth personal foul with 2 minutes to go, while Iceland pulled away for a 32-43 lead at the end of the period.

Iceland went on a run of 11 unanswered points in the opening minutes of the final quarter and although Ireland battled valiantly, the deficit was too great and Iceland went on for a 40-63 victory and qualification to the next round of the European Championships.

Top Scorers: Niall Morrissey 9, Philip Flanelly 7, Darren Randolph 7