Esh Group Eagles Newcastle v Leeds Force
Where and when:
Sport Central, 5.00pm Sunday 25 October
Summary:
Leeds Force face reigning champions Esh Group Eagles Newcastle on Sunday in the second of this weekend’s two tough away games.
Matt Newby’s side travel to Worcester Wolves on Friday before returning to Sport Central, where they were beaten by 28 points less than a month ago.
Force were knocked out of the BBL Cup by Glasgow Rocks on Sunday, having lost out to Leicester Riders 48 hours earlier.
Eagles’ unbeaten charge continues as a Charles Smith triple-double lifted them to a resounding victory against Cheshire Phoenix to improve to 7-0 and top the BBL Championship.
Last time they met:
Esh Group Eagles Newcastle 91 Leeds Force 63 (BBL Championship, Sport Central, 27 September 2015)
Form:
Eagles: WWWWWW
Force: LLWWLL
Three Points:
- Smith became the first player to achieve three appearances in the BBL All-Star Five this season following his 21-point, 12-assist, 10-rebound display against Phoenix
- Force were without Armand Anebo and Rob Marsden was limited to less than 20 minutes of action last time these teams met
- Eagles have won all five of their previous BBL meetings with Force
What they say:
Eagles player-coach Fab Flournoy: “We have played in fits and starts so far. Obviously our record looks good and I am delighted that we have got a number of long trips out of the way early but we certainly can improve in every area.
“Leeds have two new guards since we first played them. They also have a deep frontline, particularly with Armand Anebo healthy again. They always play hard and with offensive discipline and have added some excellent English talent.”
Force captain Armand Anebo: “I believe Newcastle will do what they do best so, as always, if we maintain our focus, discipline and execute our game plan we should be able to disrupt their flow.”