Moy Tolka Rovers narrowly defeated University of Galway Mystics in a gripping encounter in Dublin on Saturday. The game remained tight throughout, with four lead changes and five ties.
The teams were evenly matched in the first quarter, which finished with a 17-17 tie. Mystics took the lead briefly in the second quarter with a three-pointer from Georgia Munnelly. However, Tolka Rovers fought back with some strong scores from Naomi Farrington, finishing the quarter ahead, at 36-28.
Mystics responded very well in the third quarter, outscoring Tolka Rovers 19–14. Three-pointers from Georgia Munnelly, Kara McCleane, and Bella Quinn helped close the margin to just three points, 50–47, heading into the final quarter.
The final quarter was a nail-biter, with multiple lead changes. Mystics were three points ahead with just over a minute to go, but were ultimately defeated by Tolka Rovers thanks to a two-pointer from Aine Clinton, followed by a three-pointer and two free throws from Ali Donohoe. The final score was 63-59 to Tolka Rovers.
Despite the final result, Mystics demonstrated that they have the quality and depth to compete strongly in this division and will take confidence from their performance. Georgia Munnelly led the scoring for Mystics with 16 points, followed by Kara McCleane with 15
and Emma Glavin with 11. McCleane also recorded an impressive double-double, adding 13 rebounds to her points tally.
University of Galway Mystics' next game in Domino's Women's Division One is away to Templeogue on December 21st at 7 pm.
