Mighty Muredach's reach another All-Ireland final
St. Muredach's College duo Mark Cunningham and Nathan Roddy, pictured, played starring roles in their semi-final win over Coláiste Éanna. Picture: INPHO/Laszlo Geczo
St Muredach's College defeated Coláiste Éanna of Dublin 76-71 at the National Basketball Arena, Tallaght, to reach a second consecutive All-Ireland Schools Final.
They remain on course for another league and cup double, having won both at U19 B last year, and their success is made all the more impressive given this is their first year competing at the A grade.
Muredach's came into this game on the back of their first defeat in almost two years, beaten by local rivals Gortnor Abbey in the North West Regional Under 19 League final last Friday, but they bounced back brilliantly to defeat basketball giants Éanna, who have won the All-Ireland U19 A league title the past three years running.
Muredach's were never behind at any stage, leading 46-32 at half-time, with inspired performances by Mark Cunningham and Nathan Roddy. Éanna got back to within three but Cian Morrison hit their first three-pointer to begin an 11-point run to lead by 12, 61-49, going into the final quarter.
The Dublin school got back to within two at one stage but Cunningham punished persistent fouling from the free throw line late on to book their final spot against St Mary's College Portlaoise on January 21 in Tallaght.
