THIS NATIONAL U-16 basketball schools basketball title went the way of Castlecomer CS in an tremendous game held at the National Basketball Arena Tallaght this Wed by just a margin of 11 points. Right from the throw it was competitive, with both teams prepared not to give an inch and Castlecomers Ailish O'Neill sunk the first basket of the final. Kate Ní Mhóráin, Muireann Ní Shúilleabháin and Fiona Ní Mhurchú all scored in the first quarter for the Gaelcholáiste Cheatharlach girls to lead 9-7 at the end of first quarter.

Gaelcholáiste's Kate Ni Mhorain was doing great work in the early stages of the second quarter on the boards.

With five minutes to go Gaelcholáiste's Muireann Ni Shúilleabháin landed a big three to restore parity in the contest at 11-11. In full flight she is super composed when she steps up to score, she is a delight to watch, never fearing that she will miss. However, Castlecomer's Aisling Delaney and O'Neill took control of the game and at the break Castlecomer lead by six, a half time score 21-15.

On the restart O'Neill was first to score but Gaelcholáiste's dynamic Michelle Ni Bhraonain was quick to respond with a basket of her own. Both teams were producing a very free flowing game and with Castlecomer's O'Neill proving difficult to stop, her team lead 26-31 at the end of the third.

Jenny Ní Dhubhchonna was coming more and more into the game and the long ball from the Gaelcholáiste defence was beginning to reach her as she broke clear and she sank a tremendous lay up following an almost full court sprint. Castlecomer went 10 points and the Gaelcholáiste girls dug deep wrenching the ball from their opponents hands, Fiona Ní Mhurchú under the basket was magnificent winning ball and distributing it effectively, Kate Ní Mhóráin was a tower of strength whether she was attacking or defending.

The Carlow girls brought the game back to a five point game with three minutes remaining and the tension in the arena was palpable with supporters cheering on their teams. Gaelcholáiste Cheatharlach forced a foul just under the Comer basket and suddenly the chance to bring it to the wire beckoned but alas on both throws the ball hit the ring and rebounded. Comers' Ailish O'Neill took the ball and drove through the Gaelcholáiste defence for two points and then Nora Daly really ensured the title went to the Kilkenny team on a score of 43-32.

It was heartbreaking to see the disappointment on the Gaelcholáiste girls who were in the final for their first time. Their 10 game unbroken wins is to their credit this season, they competed with fairness and respect for their opponents at all time. No doubt they will be back.