First Semi-Final berths confirmed, Ireland's podium ambitions ended

CORK (FIBA Women's European Championship for Small Countries) - Wednesday saw the first Semi-Final berths confirmed, whilst there was bad news for hosts Ireland.

Scandinavian duo Norway and Denmark, along with Luxembourg were smiling the brightest in sunny Cork, their places in the last four confirmed with a day remaining in group action. However, the Irish were not able to share their joy, the podium plans ended at the hands of a decisive Luxembourg team, 70-47. Driven by their backcourt combo of Cathy Schmit and Magaly Meynadier, who combined for 9 assists and 6 steals, Luxembourg were able to push the ball inside for their bigs to punish the Irish, outscoring their opponents 34-14 in the paint.

Norway again showed their strength in the third quarter, once more coming from behind following the break, defeating Cyprus 56-54. Against Ireland, Norway needed to fight back from 10 down, on Wednesday against Cyprus, it was 15. Tori Halvorsen starred in the comeback, her biggest play coming from the free-throw line late, settling jitters by making a pair with 31 seconds to play. She finished with 17 points, 7 rebounds and 4 assists.

Denmark showed again their gold medal potential with another big win, this time over Gibraltar, 116-33, Emilie Hesseldal leading the Danes with a 15-point, 16-rebound double-double in 18 minutes of playing time. It was a similar winning margin for Malta, the defending champions brushing aside a depleted Moldova 122-32.

Thursday action begins with a clash of the undefeated Group A teams, Luxembourg and Norway, whilst Denmark take to the court next as they look to solidify their winning start, against Moldova. Hosts Ireland will be playing for pride, and a higher seeding in the classification games when they face Cyprus, whilst Malta take on Gibraltar in a direct clash for the last remaining Semi-Final spot

FIBA