Basketball – U19 Schools Cup All Ireland Semi Final

U19 SCHOOLS CUP ALL IRELAND SEMI FINAL

BLACKROCK COLLEGE – 59                                     ST. MUNCHIN’S – 51

Having lost the East-Leinster League final ten days previously, Captain Rob Somers and his Squad bounced back to beat St. Munchin’s in the National Basketball Arena on Tuesday last, 20th December

We started superbly winning the first quarter 20-9 and at one stage had built a 14 point advantage. However, St. Munchin’s fought back and it was a one point game in the third before we responded and extended the gap to ten going into the final quarter.

Roberto Brusasca and Seán Lardner (both 4th Year) were superb on offence scoring 16 and 12 points respectively, Tom Dowdall’s (6th Year) shooting from range was excellent again, and Rob Somers and Rory Linnane (both 6th Year) were again hugely powerful under the boards with their defensive rebounding giving ‘Rock the offensive platform required. Rory Linnane was excellent on offence also finishing with 8 points.

This game marks a significant milestone for ‘Rock. Having reached the All-Ireland Cup final, we will be promoted a division for the season 2017/18 irrespective of the result, a great end to the term but plenty of work remains after the Christmas break.

I thank Mr O’Neill and Shane Kelly (Class of 2013) for their work in preparing and motivating the squad.