University of Galway Mystics were defeated by Templeogue Mystics in Dublin on Saturday, 20th December, in their final league fixture before Christmas.
While Templeogue took the lead from the start, Mystics fought back from a deficit of 28 points, reducing the margin to just 12 points by the final buzzer and recording their highest score of the season in the process.
Templeogue led 26–13 at the end of the first quarter, with Sofia Paska - Division One’s top scorer - accounting for 10 of those points. The second quarter was evenly contested, with both teams adding 25 points.
Templogue asserted themselves again in the third quarter, extending their lead to 77-53. However, Mystics surged back in the final quarter, outscoring Templeogue 22-10 in the closing stages, with a string of impressive three-pointers from Georgia Munnelly (three), Emma Glavin (two) and Demetra Yennari (one).
Ultimately, Templogue’s early lead proved decisive, and they secured an 87-75 victory.
However, Mystics can take encouragement from their spirited finish and a strong offensive display. The team converted an impressive 13 three-pointers, with Emma Glavin leading the way on 27 points and 10 rebounds for a standout double-double performance. Georgia Munnelly added 20 points, while Kara McCleane contributed 11.
The game also carried a personal storyline, as Mystics player Kara McCleane faced her twin sister Ava, a former Mystics player, for the first time since Ava’s move to Templeogue earlier this season.
University of Galway Mystics now turn their attention to their next Domino’s Women’s Division One fixture, a home game against Clunetech Kilkenny Stars at University of Galway Kingfisher on Sunday, 28 December, with tip-off scheduled for 3pm.
