In the last real test on their way to their first Superleague title, Tolka Rovers yesterday defeated the five-time defending champions Avonmore Snowcream Wildcats 72-68.

This extends their unbeaten run to 12 games, and the final steps to winning the title are now a formality.

And the performance here certainly gives the Dublin side every right to the title. The Wildcats knew this was the last chance at defending their crown, and worked tirelessly to lead 35-28 at the half.

Yet Tolka had much more in reserve, and battled their way in front with a mixture of sturdy defence and accurate shooting. Nikkie O'Brien was outstanding, scoring seven three-pointers and ending up with 25 in total.

Denise Walsh and Rachel Kelly also played a major role with 15 and 11 points respectively, although the Wildcats' Angie McNally had an excellent game in keeping Catriona White's total to just seven points.

In the race for the minor placings, the University of Limerick maintained their tie for third with a convincing 87-53 away win over bottom-placed Crusaders. Gillian Ahern and Frances Shiely led the scoring that had Limerick in front from the start and ahead 54-36 at the half.

There was also a 65-40 win for Meteors over Killester to keep them in the tie for third with Limerick. Despite holding them to a two-point deficit at the half (19-17), Killester were unable to match the shooting of Karen Hennessy and Ciara Harvel who ensured the home side ran out comfortable winners.

Yesterday - Tolka Rovers 72 (N O'Brien 25, D Walsh 15, R Kelly 11), Avonmore Snowcream Wildcats 68 (G Haze 22, M Aspel 15, C White 7); Crusaders 53 (E Pierce 11, H Taylor 11, S Doyle 10), University of Limerick 87 (G Ahern 27, F Shiely 20, N Farrell 14).