Unbeaten sides meet in Superleague

The Nivea For Men’s Superleague reaches a pivotal stage this weekend with the battle of the unbeaten sides, DART Killester and UCC Demons, squaring up in Clontarf, while Abrakebabra Tigers will be looking for some respite at home to Hoops.

In other games, Limerick Lions host Ulster Elks with Neptune preparing to face a rejuvenated UCD/Marian while DCU Saints welcome Belfast Star.

UCC Demons Head Coach, Douglas Leichner, believes Saturday’s clash away to DART will show just how serious title contenders they are.

Demons, whose only main injury worry is Shane Coughlan, have enjoyed a perfect start to the season with five successive wins but their most serious test will come on Saturday in Clontarf.

“We must be ready for DART Killester’s variety of defences,” said Leichner.

“Their coach Mark Keenan does a great job of mixing full court and half-court zone and man defensive schemes. We must recognize the defence and then aggressively attack what they give us.“

DART are waiting until later in the week to decide on the fitness of Kieran O’Brien but otherwise Coach Keenan has a full quota choose from.

Meanwhile, in Basketball Ireland’s Womens Superleague, reigning champions Team Montenotte Hotel welcome Meteors to Little Island, while DART Killester will be looking to put a halt to their losing run at home to UL Aughinish.

Waterford Wildcats’ season is in better shape after securing the signing of US Star Melanie Thomas who is sure to play a big role in Saturday’s clash with league newcomers Leisureworld Churchfield Iona.