Friday 20 December 2013 – Worcester Wolves vs London Lions

Worcester Wolves and London Lions played out an enthralling, if low-scoring, overtime thriller when they met back in October, but Paul James expects a more ‘free-flowing’ encounter this Friday at the University of Worcester Arena (tip off 7.30pm).

Wolves edged that initial clash 63-62, after the added period, to continue their unbeaten start to the season. Their perfect record may be long gone but their title credentials remain, along with those of Lions, who James believes are getting stronger.

“We played them early in the season when both teams were still trying to find out about themselves, let alone the opposition,” said James.

“We were very lucky to come away with the win on the night, but having said that we kept on believing we could win the game where it might have been easier to give up the ghost.

“They are different now as they have added some good players and we are playing much better now too. I’m expecting a more free-flowing competitive and exciting game.”

James allowed Andreas Schreiber to find his flow against Surrey United last weekend in the absence of Will Creekmore – and he wants to see more of the same as the season progresses.

James added: “It was good for Andreas to get some extended minutes against Surrey. I hope that he can bring that kind of performance throughout the rest of the season.

“I like the depth we have on the team and especially now that Kia Williams has joined us. We have many options that we can go to now which should keep us in the championship race.”

Schreiber’s 17 point and 11 rebound performance against Surrey was sufficient for him to grab a spot in the latest BBL Team of the Week and he now gives his thoughts on this week’s match: “London is a patiently aggressive team. They pick their moments to attack, and use their veteran knowledge to break down teams.

“I think this game will come down to limiting our own mistakes. At this point, we have proven that we can beat anyone in the league. Our biggest enemy is ourselves.”

Meanwhile Lions coach Vince Macaulay said: “The head-to-heads are key against teams around you in the league. It looks like there will be a log jam at the top unless someone goes on a 15-game winning streak, so to stay in touch you must look to gain the head-to-heads.