Blazers' double trouble as Rockets, Riders win

DERBY Trailblazers’ back-to-back wins over Essex Rebels and Bristol Hurricanes became a distant memory as they suffered a heavy 71-55 away defeat against Birmingham Rockets before coming up just short against Loughborough Riders in a 79-75 home loss.

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With Malcolm Smith unavailable for the weekend doubleheader, it was never going to be easy, but the defeat to Birmingham was exceptionally disappointing and, despite a much-improved performance, the weekend was completed by a series defeat to Loughborough Riders, something which had not happened since the 2022-23 season.

After a promising start on the road at Birmingham, the Blazers’ hopes of completing a series double over their West Midlands rivals were quickly dismissed after a dismal second quarter saw them outscored 25-8 as they fell to a 71-55 defeat.

Connor Washington led the way with 13 points, three rebounds and two assists, while Mo Walker was the only other Derby player to reach double-figures, finishing with 11 points, four rebounds and three assists.

For Birmingham, Eric Donaldson tormented his former side, finishing with a stunning stat-line of 17 points, 13 rebounds and six assists.

Zach Powell was also in good form for the Rockets, adding 17 points, nine rebounds and three assists, while Ronald Blain had 14 points, six rebounds, two assists and two steals.