Worcester Wolves look to tame Leicester Riders in BBL Trophy (From Worcester News)

Worcester Wolves look to tame Leicester Riders in BBL Trophy

5:28pm Wednesday 20th February 2013 in Sport By Steve Carley - Midlands Sports Journalist of the Year 2013, @stevecarleyWN

DIRECTOR of basketball Paul James says Worcester Wolves will not be fearful of facing Leicester Riders in the British Basketball League Trophy semi-finals.

Wolves won 94-88 at Newcastle Eagles, with Alex Owumi scoring 34 points, to set-up the two-legged last-four showdown against the Riders.

The first leg takes place at the University of Worcester on Friday, March 1, with the return match 24 hours later in Leicester (both 7.30pm).

Although Wolves have lost twice to the Riders in the Championship this season — 61-79 in October and 82-89 in January — James has faith in his players to succeed.

He said: “We have already got to this point in the competition by seeing off two of the best teams in the league in Plymouth and then Newcastle.”

James added: “Yes we have already lost twice to Leicester, but both times were at their arena and we will now have our first crack at them at our place.

“We will have a big crowd behind us at the university and no doubt will take a lot of fans up to Leicester.

“I have total faith in my team and also in our supporters.”

The winners will face either Sheffield Sharks or Cheshire Phoenix in the final at the Emirates Arena in Glasgow on Saturday, March 9.

Wolves are expecting the Riders match on March 1 to be a sell-out and are urging fans to buy tickets in advance.

They are on sale at tomorrow’s home game against Surrey Heat, costing £13 for adults and £7 for concessions and children.

• Wolves have rearranged the visit of Newcastle Eagles, postponed last month, for Tuesday, March 26 (7.30pm).