Reading Rockets are not in action this weekend as they have their first break from competitive basketball since the turn of the year. The Berkshire club are currently lying sixth in EBL Division 1 with a record of nine wins and seven losses and have a further six league games remaining before the post season begins next month. Rockets face a tough run-in, having to play three double-header weekends including two tough games against the National Trophy Champions the London Mets which is seen as a key series as both teams are vying to clinch the remaining play-off positions.

 

Rockets go into their mini break on the back of a disappointing loss in Manchester where they lost out by 52 points to 65 and Rockets Head Coach Matt Johnson believes this period will be an important point in Reading's season as they head toward the play-offs. He said, 'We have been in relatively good form of late but last weekend's loss at the hands of Manchester was a really disappointing outcome for us considering the strides we had made. However, with a short break from competitive games it gives a chance to focus on our final six league games and get some much need rest before we make a big push leading into the play-offs which is now our number one priority to qualify for.'

 

It has been a roller-coaster of a season for the Rockets since their incredible feat last term of 36 wins out of 36 wins with as many as 8 players coming and going as well as Serbian Coach Sasa Punosevac having to be released due to the difficult financial situation the Rockets are currently in - however, Rockets Chairman Gary Johnson has been pleased with how the season has gone so far despite the turbulent times he and his club have faced. He said, 'It has been an extraordinary season both on and off the court for the club. However, we now have a settled team and a Coach in Matt (Johnson) who are all striving to make the post season and indeed attempt to win the final piece of silverware on offer. I have been delighted with the way the players have responded and it is great to see it all come together as we expected to in the latter part of this season after what has most certainly been a fruitful rebuilding year for the team and club.'

 

As the Rockets head towards their much needed break, Rockets Captain Ryan Lohfink has been able to reflect on the season so far. He said, 'It's been an interesting season to say the least! We have had quite a few changes to contend with but I'm proud of what the team is starting to achieve. We now have to put behind us the difficulties and take forward with us the experiences as we still have to qualify for the play-offs which is a must for our team. After that who knows! We are ever improving and I really believe we can cause some upsets in the post season.'

 

The Rockets next play on Saturday 20th March at the Rivermead Leisure Complex - 6.30pm tip-off where they entertain the new National Trophy Champions the London Mets.