Everton Tigers 101 (27,52,74) (Smith 25, Gross 22, Herriman 13)
Newcastle Eagles 80 (15,38,56) (Bridge 22, Toney 16, Moore 15)

Everton Tigers came out on top in the battle of the top 2 on Sunday evening as they defeated the BBL Champions, Newcastle Eagles, 101-80 for the first time in three Championship attempts.

The Tigers put together a 10-3 tear midway through the opening quarter to put some daylight between the teams at 20-11 and they led 27-15 at the end of the quarter. After the teams had traded baskets throughout the second quarter the Tigers effectively secured the win with the opening 9 points of the third quarter which took their lead out to a substantial 61- 38.

The hosts lead peaked at 85-60 midway through the final stanza. Tigers Andre Smith led all scorers with 25 points and 10 rebounds. Brit Andrew Bridge responded with 22 points for the Eagles.