AT the 16th time of asking, Worcester Wolves' players celebrated a much-needed victory.

The University of Worcester-based side triumphed 92-85 at Chester Jets in the British Basketball League Trophy. The game marked the half-way point for Wolves in their first season of top-flight basketball.

In the opening seconds of the match, Tom Perkes hit a three-pointer before the Jets responded with three baskets of their own.

Solomon Sheard hit eight points in a two-minute spell and a further three-pointer from Andy Harper followed by three baskets from Perkes saw Wolves race into a 25-14 first-quarter lead.

The second quarter saw Wolves continue to shoot impressively from distance and once again the US pairing of Perkes and Harper were converting some fine long-range attempts.

Cowan responded well for the Jets yet the spirited Wolves maintained their advantage going into half-time with a 53-35 lead.

The second-half saw an early response from the Jets and the home crowd started to sense a comeback.

Matt Collins calmed the Wolves nerves with three three-pointers in a short spell.

Sergio Rodriguez and Solomon Sheard continued to rebound well and Wolves went into the final quarter with a 78-63 lead.

In the final stages, the Chester team came back at Wolves again and, going into the last two minutes, the lead had been reduced to seven points.

But, Michael Gayle made two crucial baskets and Harper converted two foul shots to secure the win.