Determined Demons set sights on taming unbeaten Tigers
But they will be spurred by the knowledge that their Cork neighbours, Neptune, should have beaten the Kerry side a short time back when they went into the final quarter nine points clear and coasting. They failed and Rus Bradburd’s talented squad have an unblemished record.
“This is a huge game for us,” Demons’ Coach Pat Price admitted: “There are valuable points up for grabs but much more than that at stake. This is a measuring stick for us - to see where we are at right now.
Tigers are loaded with talent and athleticism but we are clicking right now. Torrey (Butler) hit 33 last weekend against Tolka but everybody on court did well.
He said Alai Nuualiitia, their new signing, has given them a real presence at the post. “He balances the floor for us. He’s athletic enough to make big plays around the basket but we have not seen the best of him yet.”
Cork fans will have Neptune at home this weekend when they play host to Waterford Crystal and Gerry Fitzpatrick will be facing up to his neighbour, Michael Evans. Crystal are desperately in need of a victory right now. They were due to play Demons midweek but that game has been put back to November 26.
Neptune are hoping that a week’s rest will work wonders for Kenny Gamble who has been troubled by a thigh injury.
Dave Langrell has been the key to their early season success and while he had one of his quieter games last weekend he is playing the best basketball of his career.
They are looking forward to renewing rivalry with Tigers in the ESB Cup in Tralee at the beginning of December and have no fears.
“We play better on the road,” spokesman Tim O’Brien insisted. “Neptune is a very big stadium and we play better in the tighter confines.”
They have a midweek game against BurgerKing and this weekend, BurgerKing are at home to Gleneagle Lakers. Tom Hehir will be without Keith Friel for that game as he is making a slow recovery from an ankle injury, but Killarney’s Vince Daly is also struggling with an ankle injury.
Martin McGettrick must be wondering if Tolka Rovers’ luck is ever going to change. They still have to pick up a point from the campaign but they could turn the corner with three fixtures to fulfil in six days - the first against Hibernian UCD Marian tomorrow night and then Dart Killester and St. Vincent’s during the week.
Vienna Woods Glanmire will be without Deirdre Leahy for their big game against the triple champions, University of Limerick, tomorrow night and she will be a huge loss.
Undefeated UL look certain to take the first spot in the play-offs with all others vying for the next three places.
Bausch & Lomb Wildcats will be without Olivia O’Reilly for another two weeks while Lisa Plamer is also unavailable for tomorrow night’s visit from Tolka Rovers in the ESB Women’s SuperLeague.
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