WORCESTER Wolves supporters turned up in their hundreds hoping to cheer on the team to a National League Division One play-off spot - but North West London arrived with ambitions of their own and finally triumphed 96-77.

Wolves sent out a first five of Paul Roberts, Rhys Hocking, Rick Solvason, Colin Chiverton and Nick Vinsonneau.

A notable absentee was Ben Livingston, yet the Wolves were aware that a win would secure a play-off spot.

The first quarter was very evenly balanced with Solvason, Vinsonneau and Chiverton sharing the points for the Wolves, while Atuha sent out early warning signals for the visitors with some lightning drives to basket.

The London side led the first quarter 17-15.

The second quarter saw the visitors dominate proceedings as Atuha continued to orchestrate the visitors offensive play, leaving Worcester looking very slow defensively.

Once again the Wolves failed to take defensive rebounds and at half time they trailed 29 to 46.

The home crowd were extremely vocal at the start of the second half.

Captain Solvason responded with some excellent shooting and as Chiverton combined to assist with building a Wolves score the London team were still finding gaps in the Worcester defence.

Going into the final quarter the Wolves trailed by 25 points and Stuart France sent out an inexperienced five to reduce the deficit.

Cecil Gordon stabilised the defence and Paul Roberts scored three consecutive three-pointers to add to his drives to basket giving the point guard 13 points in a seven minute spell.

The North West London team stuck to their task well and kept their nerve to record a 96-77 win to boost their own play-off claims.

To have any chance of prolonging their season, Worcester must beat Derbyshire Arrows who arrive in Worcester knowing a win for them will guarantee a place in the National Conference as champions of Division One.

The expensively assembled Derbyshire team will provide a massive test.

Director of Operations Mick Donovan said: "The performance confirms our situation - a team with potential that needs to be developed. A crowd of loyal people deserve more. It's a massive finale versus the mighty Derbyshire."

Even if the Wolves beat Derbyshire they are relying on other results to help claim eighth spot.