ESSEX Pirates travel to Worcester Wolves tomorrow night hoping to finally bag their first victory of the season. The Southend based side have been seen off in their opening 10 games of the new campaign.

And coach Tim Lewis knows it will be tough to end that wretched record against Wolves.

“They are a solid team that are well coached by Paul James,” said Lewis.

“They have lots of experience and leadership which is key at this level of play.

“Rod Middleton, Dan Gilbert, David Watts and Kastytis Normantis are all playing well and between them they have a wealth of experience and knowledge.”

Pirates went agonisingly close to collecting their first victory of the season last week before going down in overtime 95-92 at Worthing Thunder and Lewis was pleased with both that performance and his side’s display in the previous night’s loss at Mersey Tigers.

“I was very pleased with our performances at the weekend against Mersey and Worthing,” said Lewis.

“Our defensive performance against Mersey was outstanding keeping it to nine points with four minutes to go in the game with solid performances by all the players. “Most encouraging was that our game against Mersey saw 17 British players playing and contributing in a BBL game!

“Offensively we were much improved against Worthing too – leading most of the game and with an opportunity to win it in regulation had John Nottley's foul been called!

“It was very frustrating as we played some great basketball but lacked a little experience down the stretch.

“As a young British team we will continue to improve each game as is witnessed over the last couple of games.”

Pirates have seen Andre Ellis and Chidi Ajufo both leave the club this week but they have welcomed back England international Taner Adu.He bagged 31 points against Thunder last weekend.