WORCESTER Wolves triumphed 90-88 in their National Basketball Trophy clash at Team Bath.

Worcester replaced Nick Vinsonneau in the first five with Paul Gerald who has impressed in the previous game.

He was joined by Rick Solvason, Joph Cooprider, Ben Livingston and Colin Chiverton.

Wolves opened with early baskets from Gerald and Chiverton. Grainger responded for the Romans yet Cooprider settled Worcester's early nerves with two long range thre point attempts.

Worcester faced early problems as Chiv-erton collected two early fouls which meant he had to be withdrawn.

Vinsonneau was introduced and despite a three point attempt from Livingston it was Cooprider and Gerald who were making inroads into the Bath defence. At the close of the first half Bath led 50-47.

As Worcester left the court one of the their main concerns was the three fouls collected by Chiverton. To the relief of the travelling fans Chiverton went into the second half in a positive manner and scored from close range. He was supported strongly by Gerald who scored well.

Grainge continued to create problems for the Worcester defence and with 12 minutes remaining Bath led by 10 points.

Matt Wurmli was introduced for Wolves as Cooprider needed rest time. He made an immediate impact with strong defensive play and a good assist for Vinsonneau to score. When Cooprider was re-introduced it was Livingston who left the court for his rest period.

Vinsonneau again received the ball on the last break and the Wolves started to claw their way back. When Cooprider was fouled attempting a three point shot, the American guard responded to the pressure by making all three foul shots.

The Wolves now led 80-76.

Team Bath then responded with nine points without reply and went into the lead. In the last minute Bath had a 88-86 lead. With 30 seconds left Solvason was fouled and the player- coach showed great composure to score both baskets.

Livingston was re-introduced with 20 seconds remaining. He immediately stole the ball with three seconds showing.

Then Livingston gave the ball to Chiverton who scored with four seconds left. Time ran out for the Romans as the Wolves stole the game on the buzzer.

Cooprider top scored with 20 points and Gerald followed with 14 points.

Plymouth play Oxford next Saturday and if as expected Plymouth win then the Wolves will already be guaranteed a place in the quarter-finals before travelling to Plymouth themselves next Sunday.