READING Rockets Under 12s competed well to finish third at two recent national tournaments.

The youngsters qualified for the competitions after finishing as runners-up in the Solent League with a 12-2 record. They also achieved three tournament wins at the monthly Hoops Dreams event.

Rockets travelled to Eastleigh last Saturday and got off to a poor start when they were beaten 30-15 by Richmond Knights in their opening game.

However, they bounced back to winning ways when an excellent defensive effort allowed them to secure a tight 24-22 victory against London Thunder.

In their third game against Bristol Flyers, Reading were well in the contest before a strong third quarter allowed their opponents to take control and pull away to a 24-17 win.

Rockets finished the season in style, however, with a tremendous 47-18 victory against Solent League rivals Winchester securing third place at the tournament.

The U12s had previously travelled to the Thunder Dome in Lewisham where they were beaten by Thunder 34-32 thanks to a late basket from their opponents.

Rockets then failed to deal with the size and defensive organisation of the Knights in a 29-22 defeat.

However, they showed their determination by rebounding with an outstanding 41-15 demolition of Greenwich Titans.

Despite going into the final game with a tired squad, Rockets pulled out a fine all-round performance against Northants Titans, pulling away in the final quarter to seal a 38-30 victory and another third-place finish at a competitive event.