Early setback for Irish

The Irish senior women received an early setback in their quest for a place in the European basketball finals with a narrow defeat to England in their Group C qualifying group at the University Arena in Limerick last night.

There was little to separate the sides throughout the game and American-based student Susan Moran displayed her expected leadership for the Irish, creating a major confrontation with England's standout player Andrea Congreaves.

After a dramatic exchange of points in the final quarter, however, the English eventually prevailed 66-61. The Irish had actually pulled three points ahead with just minutes to play but the late shooting of Shelly Boston deprived them of the victory.

Just one point split the sides at half-time, with England leading 39-38. By then, Moran had already picked up 12 points, closely followed by a 10-point contribution from the hardworking Jillian Hayes. Christine Kiely was also part of a strong defensive display from the Irish.

Moran ended up top scorer with 23 points in total, but the crucial period at the start of the third quarter perhaps proved fatal. With only three points in five minutes, the Irish failed to take advantage of their offensive superiority and that allowed England to stay in touch for the winning baskets.