Preview: FloMAX Liffey Celtics and Killester primed for repeat of Domino's WSL National Cup Final

FloMAX Liffey Celtics captain Aine O’Connor says the defending Domino’s WSL National Cup champions have “found our rhythm”, having made a sluggish start to the season. A seven-game winning streak in the league and cup sees them in good shape going into Sunday’s final against Killester, which is a repeat of last year’s decider.

Speaking at the Domino’s National Cup Finals Media Day, O’Connor - a two-time winner of the Domino’s WSL National Cup - stated: "Killester are a very talented team who have shown how capable they are in the league this season. While we're aware of their strengths and will have prepared for them, our main focus is on ourselves this Sunday. I'm really looking forward to getting on court with the team, while we're a much changed group from last year, we've found our rhythm over the past two months and are very confident in our abilities. We know we'll have great support from our club, so we're excited to play on Sunday to defend our cup title." 

FloMAX Liffey Celtics have had a strong defence of their title to date. After a first round bye, the Kildare outfit pulled out a huge win against one of the league leaders in Gurranabraher Credit Union Brunell, thanks to late free throws from Destinee Brusch. Celtics continued their impressive run by defeating another one of the challengers at the top of the table, with a 12-point win over Trinity Meteors to set up a final date with Killester.

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Killester captain Michelle Clarke has also won the Domino’s WSL National Cup twice as a player, in 2022/23 and 2019/20, while her club are seeking a fifth Paudie O’Connor Cup. The sides have met twice in the Domino’s Women’s Super League so far this season, with a win apiece and Clarke feels it’ll be a close contest against FloMAX Liffey Celtics come Sunday.

“We’re facing FloMAX Liffey Celtics again (in the final), so we know exactly the challenge that’s ahead of us. They’re a very talented side, and finals are always about fine margins. It’ll be another tough battle between two strong teams. For us, the opportunity to win the club’s fifth Domino’s WSL National Cup would mean everything. These moments don’t come around often, and bringing another National Cup back to the club would be incredibly special.”

Killester started the season with a 5-0 run to race to the summit of the Domino's Women's Super League table. However, injuries have hit them hard and the loss of star Samantha Haiby saw them go 3-3, including them losing their last two league games against UCC Glanmire and their cup final opponents in FloMAX Liffey Celtics. Haiby has since returned for Killester and is still averaging close to 25 points a game.

The Domino's WSL National Cup final tips off at 5.30pm at the National Basketball Arena on Sunday, with coverage starting on TG4 from 5.25pm. Tickets can be purchased here.