MORE than 500 people turned up to watch the biggest game of the season for Worcester Wolves at University College Worcester.

Unfortunately it ended in a 69-67 defeat for the Wolves aainst Barking in their National Basketball League Division Three play-off semi-final.

The home side started slowly as the London team shot well from long range in the early stages.

They were also finding 6 feet 10 inch Dave Churches inside the zone.

It was only Rick Solvason and Nick Vinsonneau who eventually started to find gaps in the Barking defence.

At the end of the first quarter Barking had raced into a 20-14 lead and despite the great support from the home crowd Worcester were not responding.

The second period saw Colin Chiverton force his way into the game, Vinsonneau continued to score from inside the zone and at half time the Wolves had reduced the deficit to three points - Barking 39, Worcester 36.

The second half began with the Wolves again looking tense.

For Barking Niaz continued to hit his long range efforts.

The Wolves defence appeared to be out of sorts and in offence missed chances were proving to be costly.

Solvason as ever worked hard to find space for his shot and supported by Danny Riordan clawed back at the Barking lead.

Going into the final quarter the game was level at 51-51.

Mark Richardson for Barking scored three quick baskets.

However, after that it was the Wolves who took the initiative with Solvason and Tony Ford scoring frequently.

With one minute remaining the Wolves led by four points.

Richardson scored a three-pointer for Barking and as Vinsonneau was fouled shooting he failed to convert his free throws.

With seconds remaining the towering Dave Churches converted his free throws to secure a place in the final for Barking.

Scores: Solvason 31, Vinsonneau 10, Chiverton 18, Forde 12.

Worcester's Director of Operations Mike Donovan said afterwards: "The score was disappointing but the performance was a disaster.

"This one game does not reflect the excellent first season we have had.

"The players felt they let the brilliant supporters down.

"We now have to go away and build on the formidable start we have made."

Bristol will meet Barking in the final.

If Bristol win Worcester will go up to the other promotion spot as runners-up in the league.