Belfast Star left Cork after a weekend of mixed fortunes as, after defeating Neptune on Saturday night, they lost 104-98 to Demons on Sunday in the All-Ireland Super League.
The Belfast men remain just inside the Play-Off spots in eighth spot as the League approaches the halfway stage, and Star coach Sean Ingle will have been encouraged by the performance of Deondre Jackson, who has rejoined the club and scored 21 in the 109-96 win over Neptune and 20 in Sunday’s loss.
Star’s Max Cooper, who finished with 27 points and seven rebounds, Max Richardson and Darweshi Hunter took the fight to Demons, who led 30-27 at the end of the first quarter. Scott Hannigan came up with a three to extend their lead at the start of the second quarter.
The high quality continued as they went back and forth at each other. Richardson and Cooper were a constant threat, as were Tobias Christensen (21) and Patrick Robinson (27) for Demons, who led 52-51 at half-time.
Blake Murphy, James Hannigan and Robinson all hit baskets without reply to give Demons a 77-72 lead going into the final quarter.
Two free throws from Robinson at the start of the fourth quarter extended the lead, but just when it seemed Demons may pull away, American Hunter came up with the firepower to bring Star back to within a point with five minutes remaining.
There was little between the sides, and with two and a half minutes remaining, Star tied the game at 94-all after a fine lay-up from captain Conor Quinn.
But Robinson and Elijah Tillman pushed Demons four points clear, and as Star’s offence went a little cold, Robinson and Kyle Hosford nailed their free throws to seal victory.