Hildreth slams officials after National Cup exit

Thunder lost 67-64 away to division-lower Plymouth Marjon after over-time and Hildreth said: “In my opinion, I felt that was the worst-officiated game I have been involved in as a senior coach.

“There was no control of the game. From the outset. it was clear that Plymouth wanted to play a very physical game and we got them into early foul trouble. After that, I felt they were allowed to get away with body checks, elbows and blatant pushes.

“We didn’t play to our potential as individuals or as a team but when you are being abused going to the basket on every possession, it begins to take its toll.”

EBL Division 1 side Thunder gave a debut to new American signing Rory Spencer but he was unable to prevent his side from suffering a disappointing defeat.

Ziffit-named Thunder led comfortably after the first quarter but then started to lose their way a bit against their Division 3 South opponents, and were forced into over-time with the score tied at 58-58.

It was the hosts who then took the initiative and advanced into the third round.

Bud Johnston led Worthing with 18 points while Spencer added 16 and Brendan Okoronkwo chipped in with ten.