Basketball: Limerick Celtics go top of Super League table

LIMERICK Celtics leap-frogged local rivals Limerick Eagles and Belfast Star to claim top spot in the Domino’s Men’s Super League after the weekend’s action.

Celtics were 88-69 winners against Garvey’s Tralee Warriors.

Elsewhere, Limerick Eagles suffered a 90-77 defeat to UCD Marian, and Belfast Star were stunned by 10th place EJ Sligo All-Stars in a 99-93 loss.

Celtics brought their record to 5-1 after a blistering start saw them score 27 first quarter points.

Celtics’ Philip Kearney that topped the scoring charts with 21 points. Limerick Celtics will travel south to face UCC Demons in round seven.

Eagles suffered a 90-77 defeat to UCD Marian in Dublin, dropping the Munster side to second.

Limerick Eagles controlled the first quarter and took a three-point lead into the second period; however, a strong 27-14 quarter for UCD Marian gave them the upper hand at half-time. Limerick Eagles clawed the deficit back in the third period but UCD finished strong to take the win, despite Irish international Ryan Leonard scoring 17 points.

Up next for the Eagles, they host Killester.

Elsewhere in the top flight, defending champions Ballincollig lost 84-74 in a Cork derby against UCC Demons, Energywise Ireland Neptune took a 90-84 win against Killester at the National Basketball Arena and St. Vincent’s lost their sixth game of the campaign against Griffith College Éanna.

The Eagles women’s side also suffered defeat over the weekend, suffering a 85-81 reversal against Career Decisions UCC Glanmire.

In the Domino’s Women’s Division One, Limerick Sport Huskies were convincing winners over Swords Thunder.