WORCESTER Wolves have one foot in the final of the National Basketball Trophy after a fantastic 38-point win over high-flying London United at Brunel University's Osterley Campus.

The impressive 104-66 win put Wolves on the verge of the competition's showcase final at the 5,000-seater Skydome in Coventry on February 5.

Such a large winning margin was remarkable considering London United topped EBL Division One over Christmas and had been in great form.

Worcester's director of basketball, Mick Donovan, was delighted with the result and the performance, especially as it came just one day after a fine league win over Sheffield Arrows.

He said: "This result (against London) can be attributed to the on-going work that takes place on the training court. The team looked organised, motivated and effective.

"It has been a very significant weekend and we must make sure that we continue to build on the platform we have created."

London opened the scoring in the match, but Ty Shaw sunk a three-pointer to close the gap to 12-7.

Head coach Josh Cooprider called time-out and his words served to motivate the players as they took the lead after seven minutes.

From that point, the visitors never looked back and ended the first quarter with a 25-19 advantage. Good play from Matt Collins, Andy Harper and Ben Potts in the second quarter helped Wolves extend their lead to 25 at half-time.

Two minutes into the third quarter, Shaw was called for his fourth foul and coach Cooprider immediately called for a substitution. However, the point guard disagreed with the foul call and was given a technical for something he said to the referee.

Rob Clarke came onto court to replace him and the big forward took key rebounds and made two excellent blocks on United giant Damian Reid.

The Wolves defence continued to frustrate United in the final period, with Colin Chiverton particularly effective for the visitors.

Valdas Urbonavicius made 10 points and Harper added seven to give the Worcester side a healthy advantage to take into the home leg on Sunday at the University of Worcester (2.30pm).

In the second semi-final, Reading beat Sheffield 86-72.

Wolves also entertain Kingston in the league on Saturday (7pm).

Supporters who attend Saturday's game can then gain entry to Sunday's game for half price.