Eagles Soar to Third Straight Win

McEvoy’s Cavan Eagles made it three wins in a row on Saturday night with a dominant 83–53 victory over Midlands Park Portlaoise Panthers at St. Mary’s Hall. The result brings the Eagles to six wins from 12 outings and lifts the newly promoted side up the table to joint 6th place.

From the opening tip, the Eagles were in control. Mazzie Harris set the tone early, pouring in 10 first-quarter points as Cavan raced into a 15–7 lead. The second period proved decisive, with the Eagles exploding for 29 points, highlighted by Soleil Barnes and Sophie Staunton, who each contributed 11 in the quarter. By halftime, the scoreboard read 44–16 in favour of the visitors.

The Panthers showed spirit after the break, with Jessica Fressle inspiring an 11–0 run in the third quarter, but the Eagles kept their composure and closed the period ahead 60–35. Any hopes of a comeback were quickly extinguished in the final quarter, as Barnes added another nine points to cap off an emphatic performance.

It was the club’s biggest win of the season and truly a team effort. Soleil Barnes finished with a game-high 25 points, while Californian native Mazzie Harris was immense yet again with 19 points, eight rebounds and eight assists, controlling the tempo throughout. Sophie Staunton chipped in with 12 points, Alex Mulligan added a valuable 13 points, and Katie O’Sullivan contributed seven points and six rebounds as the Eagles’ depth and balance shone through. Captain Niamh Tolan led from the front with her energy and leadership, setting the tone defensively and driving standards on the floor.

Coach John Stephens will also be delighted to see Ciara Brady returning from injury, while Caitlin Carroll and Omotese picked up some valuable minutes off the bench as squad depth continues to grow.

For the Panthers, Jessica Fressle led the scoring with 17 points, while Ciara Byrne and Lynn Tunnah battled bravely throughout in a tough night for the visitors.

🔜 Next Up: The Eagles now face a huge test next weekend as they travel to Killarney to take on the high-flying St. Paul’s, who currently sit second in the league. The Eagles will have to be at their very best to overcome a well-drilled St. Paul’s side.