HIGH HOOPS FOR CUP TIES

TOP SIDES SET FOR NEPTUNE SEMI-FINAL SHOWDOWNS

- DECLAN KING

THE newly renovated Neptune Stadium in Cork should be packed to the rafters today with two Doprebbmino's Pizza Women's semi finals and one Men's semi.

DECLAN KING talks to some of those involved to preview a big weekend of basketball.

KILLESTER v UCC GLANMIRE

We started with Mark Grennell who agreed this is a huge game against a side on a bit of a roll following a dodgy start.

MG: “The game is important and usually the semi final is the most difficult as teams are so close to a final. It’s normal to feel a bit more pressure. Glanmire have really been excellent of late. They are an experienced group and know you don't win or lose anything in October. It’s about pacing yourself and peaking at the right times.”

DK: They have played a few games at the Neptune this season, is that an advantage?

MG: “I think it's certainly an advantage. The semifinal weekend is a huge advantage to the Cork teams in general. It's not any different though to when a Dublin team makes a final in the arena. You get more access to the facilities and you can stay in your own bed.

DK: They look to be at full strength.

MG: “Yeah I think so, they have a lot of weapons at their disposal.

DK: We were all a bit shocked at the injury to Sam Haiby, what is the latest?

MG: “Sam is ok. She will be a game time decision but I'd expect her to play. It was hard enough for her to miss last week's game.

DK: Hannah Thornton has been struggling with an injury, but got some time against FloMax Liffey Celtics. How is she now?

MG: “Hannah is impressive how she manages all the injuries. Keeps herself in great condition and is always quick to bounce back. She will be better this week for having those minutes.

DK: This is one of the great matchups in women's basketball at the top level, how do you think it will go?