HEAD coach Paul James has demanded his Worcester Wolves consign two defeats in 24 hours to history and put Newcastle Eagles to the sword tonight (7.30).

Following an eight-game winning streak in the British Basketball League, Wolves came unstuck with last Friday’s 78-73 loss at Sheffield Sharks and a 91-82 home reverse against Manchester Giants on Saturday.

It has dropped them to sixth in the standings ahead of tonight’s rearranged visit of reigning league and play-off champions Newcastle to the University of Worcester.

But with the Eagles also having stuttered to just two wins in five games, including a run of three straight defeats, Wolves are ready to pounce.

Tonight’s clash will be the fifth match between the sides this season and the second time they have met at the university.

On the last occasion the Eagles were in town in December, Wolves ran out 88-73 winners and James is determined to replicate that performance in front of their own fans.

Victory would also secure Worcester a decisive 2-1 head-to-head record ahead of next month’s play-offs.

“It’s a real treat for our supporters and hopefully we can put on a show and make them proud of us,” James said. “I think Newcastle are searching for form themselves so it could be an interesting game.

“We need to focus on ourselves and show the same passion and commitment we have shown all season that for some reason wasn’t there at the weekend. We have got to put that behind us and look forward.

“They have had some injuries at the wrong time and have lost their rhythm a bit but we still can’t take them lightly. We are looking for form as well and I am looking for a response.”

Wolves’ back-to-back defeats came following a 12-day break and the head coach reckons that played a big part in the results.

James added: “I think the weekend was just a blip. We were not really at it defensively and I don’t think we have shot so poorly offensively all season. It was just one of those things. Coming off a good run, having a break and trying to get back on it is always tough.

“In both games we were a little bit lethargic and were lacking energy which I can understand from those who had been playing in the BUCS Championships.

“Alex Owumi did great and showed his passion and commitment to win but otherwise it was lacklustre all weekend.”