Hosts Czech Republic beat Ireland at FIBA European Challengers

FIBA Third Round

Ireland have lost 52-80 to hosts Czech Republic in the third round of the FIBA U18 Women’s European Challengers. Ireland remained a contender after the first quarter, when they trailed by just three points after a comeback. However Czech Republic delivered a high scoring display in the middle two quarters, which set them firmly ahead going into the final quarter. The last quarter was a much closer contest, but the gap was too far for Ireland to bridge at this point.

It was another impressive performance from Lucy Coogan of Kilkenny Stars, as she scored 17 points and got four rebounds and a steal. Kara McCleane also made her presence felt with 10 rebounds and three steals.

Ireland face Serbia next in the competition, which takes place this Saturday 31st July at 16:30. This follows a rest day for all teams on Friday 30th July.

Ireland: Emma Glavin, Sinead Keane (5), Rebecca Anne Hynes, Ellie Glavin (2), Hazel Finn (8), Maria Alice Kealy (8), Kara McCleane (10), Paris McCarthy (2), Ella O’Donnell (DNP), Shannon Cunningham, Sarah Hickey, Lucy Coogan (17), COACH: Tommy O'Mahony

Czech Republic: Jesika Maud Hibalova (7), Charlotte Velichová (10), Natálie Vičkova (2), Marie Zílova (11), Anita Stenclova (4), Zuzana Krizova, Laura Miksikova (11), Anna Chroma (2), Johana Stanková (4), Luisa Vydrova (11), Lucie Ceralova (12), Nikola Zdenkova (6), COACH: Viktor Prusa