READING Rockets are back on the road this week following an impressive run of form which has seen them move up into the top-six of the NBL Division One table.

Alan Keane's men powered to a 97-80 victory against Hemel Storm in front of a packed Rivermead crowd last time out, and Adrian O’Sullivan was named NBL Division One Player of the Week following his contribution to the result.

A tough challenge awaits the squad with a combination of NBL and National Trophy action this coming weekend.

First up on Saturday evening, Rockets will face the unbeaten might of Solent Kestrels.

The dominant league leaders, who have eight wins from eight, will offer a stern test for the young Rockets line-up.

Reading will need to conserve some energy for Sunday’s National Trophy game against Essex Leopards, who were triumphant 90-83 in a pre-season friendly.

A win would see the Rockets take a semi-final slot in the Trophy and continue their 100 per cent win rate in the pool stages.

This fourth double-header of the season follows a weekend off for the team.

Coach Keane said: “These are two great tests coming up for the group, but our focus will be on one game at a time.

"Solent have started the season very well, but if we can take another step with our behaviours to drive performance, we have a very good opportunity in front of us.

"I have been pleased with the progress we have been making and how we practice has allowed ourselves to push each other further to be better and stronger especially in the face of adversity. We will give everything we have to secure two positive outcomes."

Captain Danny Carter added: "We're looking forward to getting back onto court after a rest week.

"We are taking on the undefeated Solent Kestrels, which will really test us and what we are trying to improve on.

"On Sunday a win will put us into a national semi final. Essex are improving every week and we will need to be ready for a tough challenge.

"Our last double header weekend ended in two wins and more growth as a group, so that’s our aim again.”