Basketball – All-Ireland Cup ‘B’ U16 semi-final
Coláiste Chu Chulainn 43 Ballymakenny College 36
Following a tentative first quarter, Ballymakenny led 9-7 but in a strong second quarter, Chulainn turned things around to lead by 23-14 at the break, with Joshua Osaghae connecting with a jump shot, while team captain Joseph Osagie also played a key role, scoring eight points including an impressive 4/4 from the Free Throw line.
However, Ballymakenny fought back in the third quarter, cutting the deficit to five points with some good team basketball of their own, as well as capitalising on some turnovers from Chulainn.
The introduction of the athletic Nelson Akubuko, saw Coláiste Chu Chulainn improve defensively, and pinch important rebounds at both ends of the floor.
They dominated the early fourth quarter exchanges with Christos Kostopoulos scoring two quickfire three-pointers. Both were ably assisted by Mohammed Sene, who produced some intelligent passes on both occasions, as Chulainn soon led by 43 to 30 with five minutes remaining.
Ballymakenny refused to throw in the towel though as they narrowed the gap again thanks to two three-pointers from star man Ryan Kelly.
However, Chulainn sealed the deal, following what was arguably the play of the match, which saw Miguel Lopez Rio intercept a pass on the half-way line, behind his back.
Despite having two defenders to contend with, Rios finished off the play with a neat lay-up.
This sealed a win and a momentous day for Coláiste Chu Chulainn who are promoted to ‘A’ Basketball next year.
Despite this defeat, Ballymakenny are also promoted to the A grade for next year, following their win over Castlerea Community School 41-40 in the U19 ‘B’ Cup semi-final in the afternoon.
This was simply a marvellous day for North East basketball and Louth schools.
Coláiste Chu Chulainn: Joseph Osagie (19), Christos Kostoupolos (14), Miguel Lopez Rio (8), Gracea Sono (3) Mohammed Sene (2), Joshua Osaghae (2), Nelsen Akubuko, Kofi Owusu, Tishe Abuede, Japhet Awotundun, Naho Mudzima, Emmanuel Okpere.