Anticipation pumps new life into old rivalry for Cards fans

LOUISVILLE, KY (WAVE) - Cards fans sense a change of fortune in Saturday’s tip off against the cross state rival Cats.

And WAVE 3 News Contributor Jody Demling agrees.

“Louisville fans going into this game should feel very comfortable that Chris Mack can get this team to play like they need to play to beat Kentucky,” Demling said.

The night before the big game, confidence seemed high on both sides.

Trash talking at the Dundee Tavern in the Highlands was moving into a higher gear with the room, the staff and the tables split among loyalties.

“UK's going to win by five points,” Kentucky fan Dana Lindsey said.

Immediately next to her, Cards fan Jackie Durham made a dark prediction, “The Cards are going to peck the Wildcats’ eyes out.”

The words prompted laughter in a restaurant that was a house-divided.

Dundee Tavern server Amanda Bourland wore Kentucky blue to mixed reactions.

“Some people are like, ‘You’re really brave,’” Bourland said. “Some people are like, ‘Way to show out and support your team.’”

Dundee Tavern Manager April Emerson wore Cardinal red and enjoyed the pre-game banter.

“We pick at each other a little bit, you know,” Emerson said. “It depends on which team, which one’s more aggressive around here.”

There seems to be no denying there is an intensity this year pumping new life into an old rivalry.

Saturday’s game tips off at 2 p.m. at the KFC Yum! Center.

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