JUST when things were right on target for tonight’s European championships semi-final round game against Macedonia Irish hopes of bouncing back where dealt a crushing blow by the enforced withdrawal of top scorer Cal Bowdler for family reasons.

HEAD coach of the Irish basketball team, Gerry Fitzpatrick, has announced his squad for next week’s friendly against England and the European Championship semi-final round games against Germany, Croatia and former Macedonia (FYROM).

National team coach Gerry Fitzpatrick has named a panel of 17 for Ireland's European Men's Basketball Championship games next month.

Scotty’s Future is the new favourite with the sponsors at 13-2 for the William Hill Mile at Goodwood tomorrow following the news that long-time market leader Demonstrate will miss the race.