Domino’s Women’s Super League
Final Score – Mercy Gym: SETU Waterford Wildcats 74–71 Trinity Meteors
SETU Waterford Wildcats held their nerve to secure a hard-fought 74–71 victory over Trinity Meteors last night at Mercy Gym, surviving a dramatic late surge to claim an important Women’s Super League win.
One thing was evident from the opening two quarters — this Wildcats side showed a togetherness and focus not yet seen this season, and it couldn’t have come at a better time, both on and off the court. Tiara Brown set the tone early with outstanding defensive pressure and turnover play. Despite being unwell all week, the American guard delivered a remarkable performance and was deservedly named Player of the Match.
Sarah Hickey impressed early, as did her sister Kate, and after a solid opening quarter, the Wildcats found themselves leading 23–17.
There was quality on both sides of the court; however, the Trinity Meteors were led superbly by Ava Learn, Kylie Horstmeyer, and Franciska Treiliha, who combined for over 38 points on the night.
The second quarter was all about defence, with Tiara Brown again forcing key turnovers. At the same time, quality scores from Alyssa Durazo-Frescas, Kate Hicke,y and Sarah Hickey helped the Wildcats extend their advantage to 44–32 at halftime.
After the break, the Wildcats lost some rhythm in the third quarter — perhaps due to tiredness or a lapse in focus — but when tested, their defence once again stood firm. Ava Learn led the Trinity charge with some excellent scoring, yet SETU still held a 63–51 lead heading into the final quarter.
What followed was a tense finish. Trinity emerged with a different energy in the fourth, building momentum as Franciska Treiliha and Kylie Horstmeyer drove their team forward. With just 1:55 left on the clock, the gap had been cut to five, making it 69–64.
Late drama followed when the ball fell to none other than Sarah Hickey, who scored to make it 74–71, sending Mercy Gym into raptures.
It was a great win for the Wildcats. While they may admit it wasn’t their best performance, they dug deep when it mattered most — a hallmark of a strong and resilient team.
