Our first home game of the season was never going to be an easy one, drawn to play Killester who had beaten us in the semifinals of the Champions Trophy at the end of last season, revenge was on the cards.
A packed Oblate Hall, saw our first Home ‘Sunday’ afternoon game of the season tip off in a thrilling Dublin Derby. Inspired by the success of Kevin McManamon’s Dublin Team winning the Sam Maguire Trophy on Saturday, the boys in Red got down to business from the start. It was all square at the end of the first quarter, however, as the half drew to a close the score was 30 – 34 to Killester, and with barely a second left on the clock, an unbelievable long distance 3 pointer, or should I say 5 pointer, from Baolach Morrison, went swish through the net, to narrow the gap to a single point.
The third quarter was basket for basket, however the fourth quarter was a completely different story. In his first home appearance, Neil Randolph led the team to an amazing comeback nailing 14 points on his own, including three three-pointers in a row on a 17-2 run. Neil finished the game with 22 points.
New signing Lawrence “Puff” Summers made his first appearance for Templeogue since his move from Team Left Bank Kilkenny. Puff, a former Davidson Wildcat, didn’t look out of place with his new teammates as he controlled the game from the off, using his pace and leadership qualities to the full.
Unfortunately, late in the game, Killester Guard Keith Anderson suffered a serious ankle injury. We wish him all the best and hope for a speedy recovery.
All round it was a great team effort, with big man Jason Killeen having a massive game on the boards, with 18 rebounds and 19 points, Lorcan Murphy followed suit with 14 points, while Mike Bonaparte had 10 points and 10 assists.
Final score Templeogue 82, Killester 74.
Our next game is away to Eanna on Saturday at 6pm…. we hope to see you there.
Photos courtesy of Rolf Stenberg of Rock Mountain Studios. All images rights reserved.