Rockets take on Manchester Magic in the National Trophy final at the University of East London on Saturday (5.45pm tip-off), looking to add to their National Cup success last month.

Carter said: “Despite beating Manchester twice this season, whenever it comes to a one-off game, there is everything to play for and preparation, tactics, and execution on the day are keys to winning any final.

“We know them well and I am confident we will approach the game in the right manner and I sure as anything want to be lifting another piece of silverware on Saturday.”

It was a another gruelling double header for the team last weekend and they lost a league game for the first time in three months in the most dramatic of circumstances on Saturday.

The scores were level at 79-79 against Newham Neptunes (NASSA) to take the game to overtime.

The lead changed hands several times but with three key Rockets players fouled out, they trailed by two points with nine seconds to go.

Robbie Parker was fouled with 0.2 seconds to go but only one of the two free throws was scored and Rockets were edged out 94-93 and suffered a second league defeat to NASSA.

Top scorers were the outstanding Josh Wilcher with 35 points, Gabriel Diaz-Morera with 26, Danny Carter with 12 and Lewis Champion with 10 points.

They bounced back the next day though to record a 20-point victory against Bradford Dragons, the only other side to have beaten them this season.

After an even opening quarter Rockets had a 19-9 second period. They extended the lead to 50-29 before Dragons came back at them momentarily, but Rockets’ strength in depth saw them to a 82-62 victory.

Carter took down 20 of Rockets’ 52 rebounds as Rockets commanded the boards, while Wilcher was again instrumental in orchestrating the team with eight assists.

Diaz-Morera hit 25 points with Champion adding 12 points.

Magic go into the weekend’s meeting having won their last six games in the league and Trophy and Rockets head coach Manuel Pena Garces knows his side will have to be at their best to overcome their in-form opponents.

The Spaniard said: “I am delighted we have been able to make our second national final in quick succession and we will be doing everything we can in the week leading up to the game to put ourselves in a position to win.

“I am always so very proud of my team for what they have achieved so far but from here to the end of the season we simply must keep on working and doing so even harder.

“I believe in my players and we have a great chance of winning some more silverware which would be great for the fans and the club as a whole.

“I think they will be really up for the final and a dangerous opponent but rest assured we will be too so it should be a really good game.”

Rockets will be without the cup tied Siman Stewart but welcome back Miguel Blasquez-Munoz.

Rockets’ Division Four star Sam Oughton has been given the call up for this Saturday’s final along with Under 18s trio Liam Carpenter, Matt Davis and Ben Seipt.