HOOPS lose out to students in thriller

Last night UCD Marian finally began to get a winning season going with a second consecutive win against Hoops in the National Basketball Arena. The U20’s also had an exciting win against rivals Vincents last weekend in the National Cup.

It was an important win as having won only once against league leaders Killester, Hoops and Marian were tied with one win apiece.

It was a closely fought game in front of a good crowd for a Thursday night however, the teams display in the opening minutes of the games were far from impressive. Both teams struggled to impose themselves on the game and it was Phil Taylor for HOOPS and Luke McCrone for UCD Marian trading the only early baskets. 

Higgins hit a three for the visitors but Joey Haastrup replied in kind for the HOOPS.  Carlton made a three point play for the home side as they crept into a lead but it was quickly cancelled by another McCrone basket.  On the half-time buzzer Jason Goldrick went down the lane for a lay-up to give the HOOPS a three point lead at the break.

In the third quarter it was neck and neck as the lead changed hands on virtually every play.  Daniel James hit a three for UCD Marian but Eoin Chubb made a great three point play under pressure to restore the home advantage.  Carlton made a couple of good buckets but McCrone was remaining dominant for Marian and another two to keep them in touch. 

Into the fourth quarter Neil Baynes stepped up and made two lay-ups to give the visitors the lead.  Young Michael Higgins hit a three with his impressive accuracy to extend the lead to five. Chubb to respond for HOOPS and Carlton hit a bucket for the home side to tie it again but on the next play star of the show, Higgins immediately hit another three to give Marian the edge.  Yet another Higgins three and a McCrone jumper from the foul line virtually sealed it.  Marian also performed some impressive defence as they caused turnovers and forced quick shots.

They finally ran out deserved winners on a scoreline of 69 points to 60.

Marian travel to Moycullen this weekend to what hopes will be their 3^rd win and a move up the table.