WORCESTER Wolves are now just one win away from the National Basketball League Division Three play-off final after a thrilling 70-55 win over Manchester Swarm in their quarter-final clash at the University of Worcester Arena on Sunday.

A blistering start from the Wolves saw them score 26 points in the opening quarter to open up a 16-point advantage after 12 minutes and that proved decisive in the end.

Wolves were in ruthless form and at one point late in the second they were 40-15 up before a late rally from the visitors reduced the gap to 42-24 at the break.

Manchester improved in the second-half but the damage was done as Vivero-Rodriguez top scored with 19 points, followed by 16 from Wilfred Santhe and 14 for Lucas McGregor to give Worcester the victory.

"We came out ready and showed Manchester no mercy in the opening minutes," said Worcester coach Dean Blake.

"After that we did enough to hold off their attacks and kept up the pressure at their basket.

"We’ve now earned a spot in the semi-finals and proved ourselves as one of the best teams in this league. I’m delighted for everyone at the club, for the players and for all our fans."

Wolves will now host London Thunder at the University of Worcester Arena next Sunday April 10, seeking a place in the Playoff Final on April 23.

"We need to maintain the intensity we showed for our next challenge," added Blake.

"We’re going to spend the week getting ourselves in the best possible shape for a real fight with London.

"We want as many fans as possible to come along to the arena and help get us over the line and into the big Playoff Final in Manchester."