Holders C&S Blue Demons will have it tough against Killester

C&S Blue Demons will face the might of Killester this afternoon in the first semi final of the Senior Men’s National Cup at Neptune Stadium.

Amazingly, former premier league players John Behan and Pete Madsen form part of the Killester squad who are raging hot favourites to dispose of Demons.

The Cork side, holders of the title, will be hoping the shooting skills of Shane McCarthy, Brian O’Neill and Shane Duggan will be good enough to prevail.

In the second semi-final another Cork side Fr Mathew’s will be bidding to make history when they play Galway outfit Maree. Mathew’s defeated top Dublin side Kubs in the first round before enjoying a quarter final win over Cork rivals Neptune.

Ironically former Neptune ace, Michael McGinn, coaches Mathew’s and his performance could well set the tone how his team fares against the well-balanced Maree side.

The Galway side play good team basketball and in Keith Hansberry and Paul Peldzius they have potential match winners.

In the Senior Women’s National Cup21 Fr Mathew’s are also involved in a last four decider against Oblate Dynamos.

The Cork side have already had two league wins over their Dublin opponents and will be favourites to advance.

Dymanos are a renowned cup side but the experience of Dearbhla Breen at the point for Mathew’s could prove the difference between the sides.

Ulster Rockets make the long trip from Belfast to play championship favourites NUIG Mystics from Galway. The westerners have the advantage of being able to call on international Michelle Fahy in their squad and are strong favourites to win the championship.

The Rockets under coach Breda Dick will be well prepared but they may have to settle for second best on this occasion.