Esh Group Eagles Newcastle extended their unbeaten start to the season to six games after coming from behind early on to beat Plymouth University Raiders 99-93 on the road.

Charles Smith was the Eagles’ hero after a scintillating display that included 33 points as well as five rebounds, six assists and five steals.

Rahmon Fletcher dished out nine assists to go with his 19 points, while Andy Thomson overcame early foul trouble to post a double-double of 18 points and 12 rebounds.

Plymouth had made a bright start with an 8-2 run towards the end of the opening quarter helping them build a 29-23 advantage.

The visitors responded well in the second with an improved shooting display from 3-point range, after finishing 3-23 from downtown in Saturday’s win, with Andy Thomson connecting with his first to make it 49-49 at the break.

Two more triples set the tone in the third as Newcastle maintained a lead throughout the period and would take a 68-74 lead into the final quarter.

Plymouth moved back ahead with a 7-0 start to the fourth but Stuart Thomson scored eight points in a strong response from the defending champions as they opened up a nine-point gap at 80-89.

Richie Edwards scored five points in quick succession inside the final minute to finish with 19 on debut and add some late pressure. However, the damage had been done and Newcastle held firm; cementing their sixth straight victory from the line.

Jay Marriott’s side are still looking for their first win as they suffer their third loss in the league. Daryl Corletto had nine assists along with his 20 points, with BJ Anthony also finishing with 20 points while he added 12 boards.