Undefeated Derby Trailblazers stormed into Reading on Saturday overpowering Rockets from the tip and scoring 14 points without response in the opening period. Though Rockets came back to take the latter stages of quarter one by 9 points to 8, they found themselves trailing 9 – 22 at the first break.

Derby's zone defence and clinical finishing, coupled to a poor floor shooting percentage by Rockets, were primarily responsible for the difference, though Rockets' rebounding was also way below the standard they set in their only other League game a week ago. Robbie Parker and Simon Kearney gave the Rockets' supporters hope with spirit-lifting three point shots whilst a typical Dan McKay drive saw him turn a two point play into three by scoring the bonus point having been fouled when scoring. Derby however had scored 9 more points from the free throw line so they went into the half time break with a 17 point lead at 39 – 22.

In the opening 4 minutes of quarter 3, Derby had hit three three-point shots and converted three from three from the line, with Rockets finding themselves with a 31-point deficit at 26 – 57. With more penetration of Derby's effective zone defence, Rockets came back through Louis Sayers, Kearney and Parker, with Jason Sayers scoring with a double handed dunk as Rockets went into the final quarter 41 – 64 down.

The opening three minutes of the last period saw much of the best of Rockets' play, especially on the boards. However Rockets couldn’t finish good moves and still found themselves 20 points adrift, though the play was much more competitive and exciting. Parker hit five quick points and Kearney did likewise. He also took a crucial charge to stop a Derby score, but still Rockets' floor shooting was well below par.

With Coach Sasa recognising victory was eluding Rockets, he played four of the youngest players for the last 3 minutes and they more than held their own with Adam Thoseby hitting a sweet three pointer to which he added 2 out of 2 from the penalty shooting line to give Rockets the fourth quarter 19 points to 17 but Derby ran out 81 points to 60 victors – their 18 more points than Rockets from the free throw line being decisive.

A much-improved performance will be needed for Sunday's knock out National Cup game. Top scorers Robbie Parker 17 points and 5 rebounds, Simon Kearney 12 points and 6 rebounds with Louis Sayers on 7 points.

FIBA STATS