This week saw the U16 and U19 DCGA Basketball teams take to the road for their first away game of the season against Maynooth CC with both teams looking to continue their winning streak.
The U16's took to the court first. The opening quarter of the game saw DCGA dominate the court with impeccable three-point shooting from Isabelle Lavin. Combined with stellar defence from Orlaith Bruton and Mia Clarkin saw the girls in black claim a comfortable lead as the first half came to a close.
The third quarter only saw the team’s performance go from strength to strength. The defence was rock solid, forcing turnovers and limiting the home team's scoring opportunities, due to the hard work in particular of Eva Vidal and Erinn Murphy. Late baskets from Aisling Faherty and Niamh Butler ensured DCGA held a commanding lead heading into the final quarter.
The team showed excellent focus to close out a committed opposition. DCGA exhibited superb rebounding skills, with Udo Uzor taking control under the boards. Áine Clinton provided excellent assistance, ensuring that second-chance opportunities were few and far between for Maynooth. This strong presence under the basket secured a well-deserved 49-20 victory for DCGA which ensured their undefeated start to the season rolled on.
The U19's took to the court with the hopes of securing their own victory. The opening quarter of the game was a tightly contested affair, with both teams trading baskets and playing high intensity defence. However, the match began to turn in favour of DCGA as Rebecca Heaney and Rachael Hargan contributed relentless defensive pressure to keep Maynooth's scores to a minimum.
The second half saw DCGA step it up, with Hannah Lavin and Kate Fitzpatrick-Byrne showing off their controlled ball-handling skills allowing the team in black to control the tempo of the game. Once again, Udo Uzor and Áine Clinton dominated the glass, ensuring that DCGA had numerous second chance points and denied Maynooth any momentum in the game.
With a narrow lead, DCGA continued to apply pressure to Maynooth with Caitlin O'Toole and Mary-Kate Spellman disrupting Maynooth’s offensive flow throughout the final quarter. The highlight of the period was debutant Jess Kavanagh scoring the final points in a 37-19 victory. A second consecutive win continues DCGA’s impressive start to the season.