Basketball: Wilson's win on the double in Midlands Plate

Two basketball teams at Wilson’s Hospital School champions in their Midlands Plate competitions – the U16 boys and the U19 girls, who both won their recent finals.

U16 boys Midlands Plate winners

The U16 boys basketball team played Mountmellick Community School in St Mary’s Hall, Portlaoise. Wilson’s had a slow start to the game and when team captain Nenman Manpan came off in the first quarter with a sprain, Mountmellick made it clear they didn’t want to lose this plate final.

In the second quarter Wilson’s began to close the gap and fast breaks from Callum Mulligan and Joel Gyasi, helped them to gain momentum.

Nenman came back on to help bridge the gap with a nice three, and Callum continued to show great displays of athleticism in offence while Joel held down the defence with excellent blocks.

Wilson’s managed to bring it back and win the game 32-28.

U19 girls Midlands Plate winners.

The U19 girls basketball team also competed in St Mary’s Hall in Portlaoise, against Ard Scoil, Rathangan, and the captain, Sophie Marry, led the team to victory. Wilson’s started out strong, as Clara Tomaszek added the first essential points to the scoreboard. Diana Izekor received the ball well and carried it strongly up the court throughout the game. Teamwork shone on the court as Jennie McHugh and Manuela Albasanz worked hard in defence. Aoibhín O’Connor was an influential player throughout the game, and put in a great performance on the day.

The final score was 36-19 to Wilson’s.

Everyone at Wilson’s congratulates the players on both teams, as without their dedication, hard work and determination all year round, these results wouldn’t have been possible. They also thanked coach Ms Beirne and Ms O’Farrell and Mr Maguire, who kept spirits high throughout all matches this season.