Newcastle Eagles wrapped up the club’s summer 2024 pre-season programme with a commanding win against a powerful Bristol Flyers.

A dominant 91-71 victory was in complete contrast to Sunday’s disappointing defeat at the hands of the rebranded Surrey 89ers.

And Marc Steutel can approach the season-opening Trophy clash against Sheffield Sharks on September 27 with renewed confidence in the wake of an assured display.

Five Eagles players — including three new recruits — hit double figures with nine scorers on the night.

Jordan Spencer’s 13-minute cameo provided further optimism after the guard was forced to sit out the Surrey clash.

And the only area of concern for Newcastle fans was the absence of big man Will Neighbour — much needed against a robust Flyers outfit.

A lightning start from the hosts was in complete contrast to a lacklustre opening period on Sunday as Steutel’s men drained 30 first quarter points.

Josh Ward-Hibbert’s promotion to the starting five provided the hosts with an immediate injection of urgency and experience.

And the returning GB international led the way early on — a higlights reel dunk in the fourth minute bringing home fans to their feet.

Ward-Hibbert and Jaelin Llewellyn looked unplayable at times as the Eagles converted a series of good looks.

And a 30-20 lead heading into period two was fully deserved.

For the second time in three days Steutel took a close look at every one of his summer recruits with Mike Okauru and Seneca Knight continuing to impress.

The US duo combined for 29 points as Flyers failed to get a grip on Newcastle’s fluid backcourt.

And as former Bristol favourite Malcolm Delpeche eased his way into the game, the men in black began to look superior in every department.

The Eagles extended their lead to 13 at the half and a huge third quarter left the result beyond doubt — delighting a typically animated Steutel.

Newcastle’s playcaller had demanded a suitably strong response to the Surrey loss and his players didn’t disappoint.

Spencer added to the mix in what’s already looking like a stacked guard rotation and Steutel said: “Jordan was day to day going into lats weekend and was desperate to play against Surrey.

“He picked up a little knock in practice but he’s been working hard within the group and it was great to see him out there.”

Tickets for the club’s Trophy opener against the Sharks a week on Friday are available from the box office.