BASKETBALL:The traditional Christmas time Cork derby between Bord Gáis Neptune and UCC Demons in the Mardyke Arena tonight holds more significance for the Nivea For Men's Superleague table than any recent year.
With both teams enjoying successful years, Demons and Neptune find themselves in second and third place respectively in the table with just defending champions UL Eagles above them.
A win for Demons would, in all likelihood, end their bitter rivals Neptune’s chances of claiming a league title as it would leave them three games behind Demons who would also own the tie-breaker between the games.
Things could be a lot different had Neptune benefited from some luck the last time these teams met in October. A last-second basket by Demons’ Niall O’Reilly snatched a dramatic victory for his team in a thrilling contest at Neptune Stadium.
The most intriguing element of the game will be the match-up of the American centres for both teams. Players of contrasting style, it is yet to be seen how the size of Kenton Walker – who Demons signed since the last derby game – will handle the dynamic athleticism of Darren Townes from Neptune.
WEEKEND FIXTURES
Tonight– Men's Superleague: UCC Demons v Bord Gáis Neptune, Mardyke, 8pm. Tomorrow– Men's Superleague: Killester v UL Eagles, IWA Clontarf, 6pm. Sunday– Men's Superleague: UCD Marian v DCU Saints, UCD Sports Complex, 3pm.
