Newcastle Eagles have a huge game down in the Canon Medical Arena Sheffield. They take on the hometown Hatters in the Super League Basketball Cup Semi-Final for the right to take on Oaklands Wolves in The Final.
Newcastle under Chloe Gaynor qualified for this stage due to their excellent League form before Christmas and the New Year. They’ve since carried that form forward and justified their place at this stage as they boast a seven wins three losses record in the standings.
The Eagles know it’s going to be a tough task and tall order if they are to topple the Hatters on their home court, having been defeated by Sheffield in the Vertu Motors Arena by 36 points, 93-57 last month on January 4th.
But after a great win last weekend in the Tyne-Wear Derby over Durham by 81-75, Newcastle are relishing the chance to make it to the Cup Final.
The Eagles will be hopeful Hodges will be fit for the game after Saturday’s injury and that they have the added bonus of a recovering Kendall Currence nearing full fitness to play more minutes.
“We hope that both players can give us something for this game”, said Gaynor.
“But it’s about managing them properly and making sure they are in a position to help us without taking any unnecessary risks that could hurt us further down the line.
There’s no doubt that this Eagles side has faced adversity and challenges this season, but they keep finding a way to move forward and progress.
“It’s testament to what we and they do and it’s something we talk about every single day”, the player-coach added.
“Trying to put our best foot forward sometimes in spite of as opposed to what’s actually in front of us.
“Adversity is a funny thing as it shows true character like are you going to step up to it or are you going to back down.
“Time and time again our team has shown that they will step up in the face of adversity and we have another test of that on Friday.”
Player-coach Chloe Gaynor will have over 30 travelling Eagles fans behind her in Sheffield on Friday night and many many more watching live on YouTube.
“I do enjoy it and I’ve always enjoyed coaching”, said the first-year top-flight coach.
“I think coaching at this level and with this team definitely provides a challenge different to what I’ve had previously and that’s enjoyable.
“I love the game within the game and so for me working with these girls at this level has been a very enjoyable experience so far.”
Tip-off at Sheffield is at 7:30pm as the Eagles go flying for glory and hoping to help Gaynor continue to enjoy the ride.
