After a successful bank holiday weekend with back-to-back victories, Maigh Cuilinn will be looking to continue their strong form as they travel to face SETU Waterford Vikings this Saturday (tip-off 7.30pm ).
With momentum firmly on their side, Paul O’Brien’s squad will be eager to build on their recent performances and secure another crucial win in their playoff push.
Bank holiday weekend success
Maigh Cuilinn enjoyed a productive bank holiday weekend, securing two impressive victories at the University of Galway Kingfisher. On Saturday, they overcame a determined Team Northwest side, pulling away in the final quarter to win 75-61.
A strong defensive effort in the closing minutes, combined with balanced scoring from across the squad, helped seal the win. Grant Olsson led the way with 24 points, while James Loughnane and Aitor Perez contributed 14 each.
Two days later, they delivered their best defensive performance of the season in a 65-47 win over Scotts Lakers Killarney. The key to their success was limiting Killarney’s Mikah Blackwell to just 13 points, a testament to Maigh Cuilinn’s disciplined and well-executed defensive schemes. Olsson once again led the team with 24 points, with Aitor Perez adding 17 and Cian Walsh chipping in with 10.
The challenge ahead: SETU Waterford Vikings
Maigh Cuilinn will take confidence from their last meeting with Waterford back in November, where they produced one of their best performances of the season in a dominant 110-81 victory at Leitir Móir.
That game saw an explosive offensive display, including 18 made three-pointers and a standout 28-point performance from Aitor Perez.
However, Waterford will be eager for revenge on their home court and they cannot be underestimated. The Vikings possess dangerous scoring threats in Aaron Jackson and Jay Kavanagh, who both had strong showings in the last encounter.
Maigh Cuilinn will need to replicate their recent defensive intensity and maintain their rebounding advantage to neutralise Waterford’s attack.
A key storyline for Maigh Cuilinn will be their depth, which has been a major strength in recent games. With all 12 players seeing meaningful minutes over the bank holiday weekend, O’Brien will have the luxury of keeping fresh legs on the floor, an asset that could be crucial against a Waterford side desperate to bounce back.
Playoff positioning
With playoff positions on the line, every game is vital. Maigh Cuilinn’s recent form has put them in a strong position and in firm control of a playoff berth, but consistency will be key as the season enters its crucial stretch with four straight road games for the men from Connemara.
A win against Waterford would not only keep them on track for a postseason push but also reinforce the confidence and momentum they have built over recent weeks, enjoying a three-game winning streak at the moment.
On Saturday, Maigh Cuilinn will be aiming to extend their winning streak and keep their playoff hopes firmly alive.
