READING Rockets will face Derby Trailblazers in the NBL Division One play-off semi-finals after a thrilling 102-84 win against Essex Leopards.

Third-seeded Rockets finished one place below their opponents in the last four, with Derby beating Lancashire Spinners 91-61 to book their semi-final spot.

This Saturday’s meeting in Derby (7.30pm) will be the third between the two teams this season with the series split at one a piece. Both league games went in favour of the home team on the day with Derby securing an 83-68 win back in January, and Reading securing an 85-76 success at Loddon Valley Leisure

Centre two weeks ago.

With both teams finishing with identical records it was the Trailblazers who took the runners-up position behind champions Manchester Magic having secured the head-to-head by six points.

Rockets head coach Manuel Pena Garces said: “I was absolutely delighted with last Sunday’s win against Essex and how we came back from a deficit, and especially our fourth-quarter performance. It was a real battle against a very good team who fought us all the way but my players showed some great character and made some big plays to enable us to keep our season going and keep up the really good momentum we have shown of late.

“I feel we are in a good moment but this week it is important to work harder than ever and prepare thoroughly for one of the toughest games of the season. Despite beating Derby two weeks ago, they are unbeaten at home and have had a really good season under the guidance of coach Matt (Shaw) who will no doubt have his team ready with both teams having a chance of making the final and claiming the final piece of silverware of the season.”

The Spaniard continued: “The Watts brothers have been the standouts for Derby this season, but what we like about their team are the depth and roles of their squad and the way they work hard and play for each other.

"Sydney Donaldson has been impressive throughout the campaign but they have always had different players score, defend, rebound, and do the important things that made them this year’s runners-up.

“Can we beat them? Yes, of course, because our team is talented also and has worked especially hard to get where they are today. But it will be a hard game and this week’s preparation, focus, and discipline are going to be keys to try to do this.”

Rockets have no new injury concerns meaning they should have a fully fit team at his disposal.

The Berkshire club will be looking to make their first play-off final in three seasons and their second national final of the current campaign having lost out to champions Manchester Magic in the National Trophy final back in January.

Pena Garces has the chance to make his sixth final in his three year tenure as the Reading search for play-off glory.