Men's Super League: Belfast Star in unexpected defeat

Belfast Star lost their first game of 2023, surprisingly going down an a 106-90 scoreline to EJ Sligo All-Stars, opening the door for DBS Éanna to eye top spot in the InsureMyVan.ie Super League Northern Conference.

The All-Stars leaned heavily on Christian Williams and Tom Childs, who had 29 and 28 points respectively.

Shane O'Meara’s team amassed a lead of 19 points midway through the second, before Belfast Star showed their title credentials to rally and re-take the lead in the third. However, a strong closing salvo from EJ Sligo All-Stars allowed them to take home the spoils, which could be vital in the race for the final playoff spot in the Northern Conference.

DBS Éanna capitalised on their rivals struggles, Darren McGovern’s side bounced back from defeat against University of Galway Maree, to beat Griffith College Templeogue 79-63 at the National Basketball Arena and move to 11-5.

Griffith College Templeogue’s Neil Randolph put up 27 points in defeat during a contest that also marked the return of Irish international Lorcan Murphy to the court following a serious injury.

The weekend’s remaining all Northern Conference tie saw Bright St. Vincent's secure a narrow, 72-67 win over UCD Marian to keep their hopes of a play-off place alive.

A fine shooting display in the second quarter gave St. Vincent's a nine-point lead at the break. That lead grew to 13 by the end of third before a late rally from Ioannis Liapakis’ team in the fourth, which ultimately wasn’t enough.

Donovan Fields continued his excellent scoring season with 32 points, with Jonathon Jean providing the bulk of UCD Marian’s offense, netting another 29 points.

In the Southern Conference, University of Galway Maree have now won four games on the bounce.

Charlie