Limerick derby awaits as Eagles take on Celtics this weekend

Limerick Eagles remain top of the Domino’s Men’s Super League after a massive 30-point victory over Griffith College Éanna at the UL Arena last weekend.

Niall McDermott’s Eagles strode to a 64-48 lead at half-time, but it was Éanna's 22 turnovers that cost them the game in the end. Limerick Eagles didn’t hold back in the second half, eventually stretching the lead to 36 points in the fourth quarter, and finishing the game 120-90 victors.

Aaron Rhooms was Eagles most efficient player up and down the court, notching up 31 points on the offensive end and four steals on defence. Limerick Eagles clamped down on defence in the second half, allowing Nick Hopkins, Cathal O’Sullivan and Neil Lynch to only score a combined 20 points, when the trio scored 35 in the first half.

Alex Carlisle has been the star-man for Eagles so far averaging 26.3 point per game, Irish underage international Darragh Horkan has tallied 44 points in three games.

“I think the squad has played really well in the opening games. We know there are a few improvements to be made, and we look forward to building on the performances as the weeks go on,” said Limerick Eagles’ Ryan Leonard. “Derby games are always fun and bring an extra edge to them. It will be a high intensity game, and we’re focused on the adjustments we have to make to try and get another result.”

Their opponents this weekend, Limerick Celtics, claimed their second win of the season last weekend. Tony Hehir’s side beating EJ Sligo All-Stars 75-67.

Limerick Celtics led 22-10 after the first quarter, only for Sligo All-Stars to drag the game back to six points at half time. The sides traded score for score in the second half, as Limerick Celtics eased to an eight-point victory.

Tiras Morton picked up an impressive double-double with 16 points and 14 rebounds, while also collecting seven assists. Limerick Celtics move to fourth in the Domino’s Men’s Super League with a Limerick derby on the horizon.

The Limerick Celtics Women’s side are home this weekend to Killester of Dublin on Saturday at 5pm.

Newly promoted Limerick Celtics sit two places higher than this week’s opponents and reigning Domino’s WSL National Cup champions Killester, with the teams positioning at seventh and ninth place respectively.

Limerick Celtics claimed their first win of the season last weekend, beating Midlands Park Portlaoise Panthers 64-55. Jeni Levine led her side in points, but it was Irish underage internationals Laura Buckley and Meadbh Purtill who impressed for Jordan Hehir’s side, combining for 25 points, with Purtill picking up 14 rebounds.

Killester have struggled to get off the mark this season, losing three out of three contests so far. Mark Grennell’s team were bested by Gurranabraher Credit Union Brunell 80-54 in their recent outing; however, Kennedy Townsend picked up a double-double with 25 points and 11 rebounds.

The Huskies continued their dominant start to the season with a 75-68 win over Catalyst Fr Mathews in Cork last weekend.