The SETU Wildcats got back on track last Saturday with a home win against the Dublin Meteors at Mercy Sports Hall. In a nerve-wracking game, both teams were separated by just three points, 74-71, and the STS-hosted Wildcats nearly gave up a sizable lead, but a last-gasp game-winning goal from the game’s top scorer, Sarah Hickey, with 33 points, got them over the line.
The game started at a fast pace, with both teams playing quality basketball and producing a lot of great scoring with Sarah Hickey and Tiara Brown each scoring nine points, giving the Wildcats a 23-17 lead at the end of the first quarter. The Hickey sisters took control in the second quarter, with Kate making several 3-pointers and Sarah adding 10 points for the Wildcats.
The Waterford side led 44-32 at halftime and appeared to be back to their best with solid performances from guard Alyssa Duraso and SETU student Saniya Brikmane.
As the game progressed, the Dubliners matched the Wildcats’ effort, with American post player Eva Rahn (24 points) doing some major damage inside. Her total could have been higher, but it was thanks to outstanding defense and rebounding from Tiara Brown, who was excellent throughout the game. The game entered the final quarter with the Wildcats leading 63-51.
Back-to-back goals from Helena Lohan, Alyssa Durazo and Sanjia Brikmane widened the lead to 17 points with eight minutes left in the game.
Just then, the Wildcats fumbled multiple breakaway scoring chances with incredible turnovers, forcing their opponents back into the game and punishing the Wildcats with fine scores on every turnover.
With five minutes remaining, the lead had narrowed to 69-61. A big 3-pointer from Alyssa Durazo eased the pressure. But Meteor’s spirits rose in the final minutes, holding the Wildcats scoreless and hitting a number of fine shots to tie the game at 71-71 with 14 seconds left.
Wildcats coach Jillian Hayes-Hickey called a timeout to set up the play in hopes of provoking the victory, and as expected, she was right, much to the relief of a silent home crowd that watched the championship favorite go down from a good position. Alyssa carried the ball forward and with 6 seconds left, she hit a pass to Sarah Hickey for a great finish.
The Irishman was fouled at that time and made the bonus shot to give the Wildcats a much-needed victory.
The game is about to get intense, and the Wildcats have a tough task ahead of them. This Saturday they travel to Cork to take on Brunel, and next Saturday they host Cork’s other rivals, Glanmire, with tip-off taking place at Mercy Sports Hall at 7pm.