High-flying Eagles will be biggest test – James (From Worcester News)

High-flying Eagles will be biggest test – James

12:00pm Friday 16th December 2011 in News By Steve Carley, @stevecarleyWN #WENsport

WORCESTER Wolves face a stern test of their British Basketball League title credentials when they visit leaders Newcastle Eagles tonight (7.30).

Despite losing in the BBL Cup semi-finals to Plymouth Raiders last weekend, Paul James’ side have enjoyed their best start to a season and sit second in the standings behind the undefeated Eagles.

Yet, with Fab Flournoy’s Newcastle having won the title in three of the last four seasons, Wolves are under no illusions as to the task in front of them.

“Looking at Newcastle, you just run out of words to describe their dominance over the years,” said head coach James, whose team also host third-placed Glas-gow Rocks at the University of Worcester tomorrow (7pm).

“This season is no different, they are the team to beat. They have the continuity of having Fab as their leader and inspiration and (Joe) Chapman, (Darius) Defoe and (Charles) Smith give them good stability.

“Add to this mix Andrew Thomson and Paul Gause, and then you have a very talented team.

“Newcastle always play hard and make it tough for the opposition to execute their game plan. We are going to have to try to match this and more.”

Eagles player-coach Flour-noy is expecting his side’s toughest game of the season so far.

“We haven’t seen the Wolv-es live but they have had plenty of exposure on television,” he said. “They are an extremely well-drilled group and they noticeably have excellent chemistry.”