Next Saturday evening will be a clash of epic proportions when the Women’s National Cup will draw to a conclusion.
The day will see the ultimate battle of the underdog against the champions as Killester take on current holders and favourites Team Montenotte Hotel, Cork.
Killester, who have not been in a cup final since 2006 will be hoping to end the nine-year drought but they certainly have a tough task lying in wait for them.
Last week saw them overcome the challenge of UL Huskies in a nail-biting and competitive Cup semi-final that saw them secure victory by just one point in the last 40 seconds (68-67) – a game though that should stand them well as they head into next weekend’s final.
At some stages of the game, it was hard to see how they would be able to secure victory and yet, somehow, they did.
Because within this team there is a steel, a grit and a studied determination. Their combined talents along with their ability to rise up when all the chips are down is something that should not be underestimated.
http://youtu.be/YlbSLi2xMLE
Video via YouTube/BasketballIreland
Team Montenotte Hotel though are favourites for a very good reason. Not only is the balance of power in the Women's National League tipped firmly in their favour – though Lexilip’s Court Yard Liffey Celtics are looking like serious contenders – they are champions in all stages of competition for a reason.
A depth of skill, a well-oiled machine of a team that has become as used to winning as breathing, Team Montenotte Hotel are formidable opponents, ones to watch closely, to admire for their unity and strength and to never, ever let out of your sight.
Having overcome DCU Mercy in the cup semi-final (71-65), four-time champions of the National Cup, Team Montenotte Hotel may well be favourites, but the warning is in the saying; never, ever underestimate the underdog.
http://youtu.be/ZWPxT3VEo_M
Video via YouTube/BasketballIreland
Speaking ahead of the game, Killester captain Aisling Sullivan told Her.ie that she was looking forward to the clash and was thrilled to be back in the National Cup Final while acknowledging the task that lies ahead.
“We knew we would always be underdogs with our current league position and that Glanmire would be clear favourites as they are top of the league, but honestly, it's probably a good thing,” she explained.
“I think we play well when there is less pressure on us. In the UL game we were favorites and I think that added to the nerves. But you should not underestimate an underdog team - we have nothing to lose and instead have a great opportunity to make something of our season.
“We started off our season very poorly with a zero from five record. In recent years, we have lost a lot of players due to emigration or studies, so our team age has dropped dramatically and we currently have six players under 21.
“We are now in relegation trouble which isn’t great but we are going to compete in every game. We know ourselves though that we should be up there as we have the talent to do it.
“The semi-final was tough, but when it wasn’t going our way, I never really got unnerved. I felt that if I dropped my head my team mates would also, so as captain I just had to keep encouraging them and telling them that we can still do this. I do think there was a little bit of luck was on our side though which I am so grateful for."
Aisling Sullivan, Killester, in action against Kathryn Fahy, UL Huskies in the semi-finals. (Pic: Sportsfile)
“We have a strong desire to win this. We've played in four semi-finals in the past few years and never got through to the final, so getting over that hurdle I think will be a huge drive for the girls. Now that we are there, we certainly do not want to let this opportunity slip through our hands.
“What's good about our team is that every week there is someone different stepping up and making crucial plays or scoring for us. I don't think Glanmire can hone in on one particular player on our team so that will be to our advantage.
“I am really looking forward to the game. Cup weekend is something every Irish player wants to play in. I'm nervous too but that's natural.
“Anything we do, we have to give 110% - that’s how it should be all the time, Cup final or no Cup final. Everything is important, making the right or extra pass, taking the right shot, options right down to encouraging one another.
“The game has a huge mental aspect to it. For some of our girls this is their first basketball final, never mind Premier League. What's going on in their heads will have a huge impact on the game. That's why it's important for the older, more experienced members of the team to step up and help them out.
“Our team has been through a lot so it's great to finally get into the final and know that we have worked hard for this over the years. All we have to do now to reward ourselves is to win,” she concluded.
Meanwhile, her team mate Alison Maguire was also looking forward to the challenge.
“I can’t argue with the fact that we are the ‘underdogs’. Our league form hasn't been great and we are up against TMH who are a very experienced team, but in the Cup -anything is possible,” she began.
Her.ie Sportswoman of the Year 2014, Gráinne Dwyer in action for Team Montenotte Hotel.
“I feel that our semi-final win showed the character of the girls as we were down by 10 heading in to the last quarter so it took great character to come back from that."
“Now that we have reached the final we will have the desire and passion to perform to our best and hopefully win the game,” she continued.
“I'm really looking forward to the game. Every player dreams of playing in the National Cup finals in January, so we are delighted to be there.
“Team Montenotte Hotel have an all-round excellent team with great players but I have confidence in our girls that we can put it up to them.
“It would mean a huge amount to win with the girls that you grew up playing with. I won numerous National Cup and league finals with my school Holy Faith Clontarf and I would love to add a national cup title with Killester to the collection,” she finished.
Tip off in the Women's National Cup final is at 6pm on Saturday, January 24, in the National Arena in Tallaght.
