Killester Claims Fifth National Cup with Stellar Performance

Killester secured their fifth Domino’s WSL National Cup title on March 10, 2024, by defeating FloMAX Liffey Celtics 70-64. This victory marked a significant redemption for Killester, who faced defeat at the hands of the Celtics in last year’s final. The standout performance came from Samantha Haiby, who was named the Most Valuable Player (MVP) after scoring an impressive 30 points. Captain Michelle Clarke also made a notable contribution with 20 points.

In the opening minutes, Clarke set the tone for Killester’s performance, scoring two three-pointers and helping her team to an early 11-7 lead. The Celtics quickly responded, with Brooke Kane leveling the score at 11-11 after two free throws. A well-executed step-back jump shot from Sorcha Tiernan allowed Liffey Celtics to take a narrow lead at 13-12, finishing the first quarter ahead 17-14.

The second quarter saw both teams exchanging leads. A three-pointer from Clarke brought Killester level at 19-19, but the Celtics surged ahead again, with back-to-back scores from Destinee Bursch that pushed their advantage to 33-26. Haiby narrowed the gap with a rebound and a free throw, leaving the score at 36-34 in favor of Liffey Celtics at halftime.

Killester’s momentum shifted in the third quarter as Clarke’s fourth three-pointer put her side back in front at 37-36. Haiby then added to the score with a three-pointer and an extra free throw, extending the lead to 41-38. As the quarter progressed, a putback basket from Kane momentarily brought the Celtics within one point, trailing 47-46. Yet, Killester quickly responded, increasing their lead to 52-46 with a basket from Haiby and a corner three by Ieva Bagdanaviciene.

Despite Tiernan’s efforts to keep the Celtics competitive with a crucial three-pointer, Killester maintained their lead, entering the final quarter at 56-50. Haiby continued to dominate, driving to the basket and securing a free throw, which advanced Killester’s lead to 59-51. The Celtics fought back, with Clara Boye‘s corner three bringing the score to 61-56.

As the clock wound down, Liffey Celtics faced a setback when Kane fouled out, significantly impacting their chances. Haiby seized the opportunity, scoring again to extend Killester’s lead to 67-58 with just over a minute remaining. Though Tiernan hit back-to-back threes to narrow the deficit to three points, Haiby sealed the game with three free throws in the closing seconds, ensuring a 70-64 victory for Killester.

Following the match, Clarke reflected on the hard-fought nature of the win. She stated, “It has been so hard-fought for; it didn’t happen overnight. We’ve been through the lows and are building on the highs at the moment, enjoying every minute of it.” She acknowledged the motivation from last year’s defeat, noting, “It really left a bitter taste in our mouth… we’re so happy we were able to right that wrong today.”

Killester’s triumph not only adds another title to their legacy but also underscores their resilience and determination in the face of past challenges.