DURHAM WILDCATS supremo Quentin Sloper has urged the BBL’s newest team to move on from their bruising defeat at Newcastle Eagles and focus on the second phase of the season.

An outstanding second half display against the Worcester Wolves on the opening weekend of the season was followed up by a somewhat flat performance against the Glasgow Rocks and an equally disappointing result in the cup at London Lions.

And, despite a 99-75 defeat at Sport Central last Friday, there is much optimism in the camp as the season now moves into a new phase.

Principal owner Sloper said: “Phase two of the season was always going to be crucial to us.

“We have a number of home fixtures in quick succession which should allow the crowd to get right behind us and we do see this phase as an opportunity to get points on the board and build upon what has actually been a really promising start.

“We will have a far better idea of what our season will look like come the middle of November.”

First up for the Wildcats is a trip to winless Sheffield Sharks tonight.

The Sharks will be desperate to get a win under their belts and will provide a stern test as Dave Elderkin’s squad go in search of their second victory of the season.

On Sunday the Wildcats play host to highly-fancied Leicester Riders in what will be another tough test before back to back home fixtures against Mersey Tigers and Manchester Giants. A trip will soon follow to the London Lions all in advance of the Plymouth Raiders travelling to the North East on November 11.

Wildcats tip off at 4pm on Sunday at Newton Aycliffe, tickets £6 adults and £4 concessions and children.