U14 boys travel to Cork

Liffey Celtics U14 Boys traveled to Cork last Saturday to participate in the U14 Cork County Board tournament. The tournament was held in the Parochial Hall and for some it was there first time playing in this well known venue.

The boys had a favourable start time at 11.30am and eased there way into the tournament with a lob sided win over Mallow YC. The second pool match was against Neptune and the sides looked to be evenly matched. Celtics built up and early 10 point lead but did not continue to capitalise on their excellent defense. Neptune fought their way back into the game. By the start of the 4th quarter we knew this game was going to the wire and so it did as it headed into overtime. With Celtics in foul trouble Neptune ran out winners by a couple of points. A tough game with some high quality basketball played by both sides.

Celtics played Dublin rivals Kubs in the quarter final and again strong defense combined with an excellent 4th quarter meant a comfortable win 47-35.

Liffey Celtics played Ballincollig in the tournament semi. Celtics were playing some great basketball throughout the tournament with every player contributing on both ends of the floor. Another fine display from the team winning out 45-26.

The final was played out against a very strong and competitive Moycullen team. Celtics had plenty of confidence going into the final having beaten Moycullen in a pre-season tournament. Both sides were fielding international players and the feeling was that another close game was in store. Moycullen built a small lead and managed to hold onto it throughout the game. Some tired legs on the court from both sides. The Galway boys ran out 8 point winners.

This Celtics team have shown remarkable consistency this season with 3 tournament finals in a row.

Overall, a slightly disappointing finish to an entertaining tournament with some fine basketball talent on display…