DBS Éanna to contest Pat Duffy Cup final with first timers University of Galway Maree

DBS Éanna are into their second InsureMyHouse.ie Pat Duffy Cup final in three seasons after they defeated Emporium Cork Basketball 77-71 in a thriller at a packed Neptune Stadium. There they will play University of Galway Maree in the final in two weeks' time at the National Basketball Arena, after Charlie Crowley’s side defeated Bright St. Vincent’s 86-68 to reach their first ever final.

DBS Éanna made a super start to the game, racing to an early 22-11 lead by the end of the first, Kristijan Andabaka hitting eight points during it. Emporium Cork Basketball began the second quarter brightly, Keelan Cairns’ three and Jose Jimenez Gonzalez’ layup and free throw, followed by another long-range three from the hot-handed Cairns reduced the deficit to 24-21.

John Dawson, who has been so influential for Emporium Cork Basketball this season, didn’t get his first basket until nearly midway through the second quarter, to make it a two point game, 25-23. Mark Reynolds, who excelled all game, responded with four points. The game was end-to-end after that, with both sides contributing to an exciting finish to the quarter. Emporium Cork Basketball completed the turnaround with a Dawson free throw in the final seconds, to nudge them in front for the first time in the game, 32-31.

Dawson began the third quarter with three three-point jump shots and a dunk, it was 43-33 with a little over two minutes gone and it looked like the momentum was with Emporium Cork Basketball. A lovely shot fake from Cairns opened up the opportunity for a two point jump shot, handing Ciarán O’Sullivan’s side a 49-37 lead midway through the quarter.

A seven point run from DBS Éanna followed, it was started by Romonn Nelson, then Steven Desncia landed a three