Killarney Cougars 73
Maigh Cuilinn 78
Killarney, County Kerry – 25 January 2025

Maigh Cuilinn delivered a thrilling performance on the road in Killarney on Saturday evening, securing a 78–73 victory over Killarney Cougars behind a season high 21 points from Dylan Cunningham ahead of a crucial double header bank holiday weekend in Galway next weekend.

The game started at a frenetic pace, with Cunningham setting the tone early by intercepting a Killarney pass and assisting Grant Olsson for a three-pointer on the ensuing possession. Both teams traded baskets throughout the opening quarter, with Killarney’s physical presence on the wings posing challenges for the visitors, while Maigh Cuilinn found success penetrating the Cougars’ defense and exploiting their scrambling rotations. A full-court 2-2-1 press by Killarney caused few issues for Maigh Cuilinn, but the home side still edged the quarter, leading 25–22.

Maigh Cuilinn Embrace the Physical Battle

The second quarter turned into a bruising affair, with Maigh Cuilinn thriving in the physical exchanges despite being the smaller team. Their intensity and tenacity, which had been inconsistent at times this season, were on full display. However, a series of costly turnovers allowed Killarney to capitalise with easy scores, leaving the visitors trailing 41–34 at halftime.

Third-Quarter Rally

Maigh Cuilinn came out firing after the break. Rory O’Sullivan ignited the comeback with two quick corner threes against Killarney’s zone defense, while youngster Donagh McDonagh provided valuable minutes off the bench. Despite their offensive struggles in comparison to the high-scoring first quarter, Maigh Cuilinn’s impressive work ethic all over the court kept them within touching distance, closing the gap to a single point by the end of the third, 59–58.

Dramatic Fourth Quarter

The final quarter was a rollercoaster. Antonio Molina’s steal and fastbreak assist to Olsson gave Maigh Cuilinn a slim 65–64 advantage midway through the period. James Loughnane extended the lead on another fastbreak, but Cougars roared back to retake the lead, 70–69, with just over two minutes remaining.

Cunningham then stepped up with a clutch three-pointer to swing the momentum back in Maigh Cuilinn’s favour, and his timely drive to the basket with 24 seconds remaining gave the visitors a critical 74–70 cushion. Although Killarney responded with a superb three-pointer to close the gap to one, they were forced to foul to stop the clock, and Molina’s composed free-throw shooting sealed the 78–73 win for Maigh Cuilinn.

Big Weekend Ahead

The win provides a timely boost as Maigh Cuilinn looks forward to hosting two critical games next weekend at the University of Galway Kingfisher.

On Saturday, February 1, at 7:30 PM, they will face Team Northwest, whose star players Shakeil Bertrand (21 points per game) and Tyler Mutemasango (20.8 points per game) will present a formidable challenge. Bertrand’s size and Mutemasango’s perimeter skills make them a dangerous duo.

The excitement continues on bank holiday Monday, February 3, at 3:00 PM, with a rematch against Scotts Lakers Killarney, who bested Maigh Cuilinn earlier this season.

With home support and renewed confidence, Maigh Cuilinn will be aiming to build on their recent success and solidify their position in the playoff race. Fans are encouraged to come out in force for what promises to be an exhilarating weekend of basketball.

Maigh Cuilinn scorers: Grant Olsson 26, Dylan Cunningham 21, Antonio Molina 14, James Loughnane 8, Rory O’Sullivan 6, Eoin Cleary 3, Donagh McDonagh, Liam Moloney, Rhys Plower, John Hynes

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