Tralee take valuable cross conference points

UCD 119 Abrakababra Tigers 126

Luke O'Hea led the charge as Tralee set down marker for title honours.

After the disaster in the Tralee Sports Centre last weekend against UCC Demons, Tralee look as contenders in all competitions.

O'hea started the ball rolling with a three in the corner however the home team were in control for the 1st quarter as the game was played at a frantic pace in front of a packed Belfield.

Early fouls on Lufkin and Quirke ensured benches of both teams would be needed to fill in gaps throughout the contest.

Some class moves by Bush was complemented with dunks for walker. Tralee played without a defence in the 1st as the home team enjoyed a lead throughout the first as they led 27-25.

However with Irish stars like Donaghy and Teehan the visitors soon built up a lead of ten in the second. Precious for the home team as well as Morbley brought the home team back as they trailed by 4 at the half, 53-57.

In the third Tralee exploded and very quickly built up a lead of 20 mid way through the third as the home side fell asleep with O'Hea shooting from all angles and converting many awkward shots.

Good interplay between Quirke and Donaghy led to extra baskets as Bush set up the plays for the visitors.

Nate Lufkin found his range under the basket but Tralee led 98-84 heading into the last. The home team found reserves as Barry Glover and showed leadership to bring the home team back into the contest and limit the lead to 10 and in turn down to 6 as the pressure was on the champs.

Official Paul Dempsey fell over on his ankle with 2 minutes remaining in the game, which left the foreign official the tough task on his own.

Tralee will look towards the Arena in Tallaght as the cup will be on their list to retain this trophy. UCD travel to Belfast next weekend for a meeting with previous coach, Darren O'Neill.