Thunder’s Tullis aware of Medway Park threat

Thunder want to make it back-to-back wins as they host Medway Park at the Worthing Leisure Centre, with the game is vital for EBL positioning.

Thunder lie in fourth in the table and Crusaders are sixth, so both teams know that a win would boost their chances of a play-off spot.

Tullis said: “The Bristol game was definitely a confidence boost, but we still have a few areas to improve in and Medway with the addition of Steve Vear, who I hear is an English legend, a guy who is smart with the ball and just an overall leader, it will be a tough game for sure and every game from here on out will be vital for us.

Last week’s victory at then-leaders Bristol was a massive confidence boost, as it stopped a run of three straight defeats, as Thunder were averaging approximately 18 turnovers in all games in 2012, winning only one game in five.

One player who has missed out on the last four games is Vinnie Darpino.

The Kean University guard pulled his hamstring in January away at Leicester Warriors and was hopeful that he would return this week against Medway.

Unfortunately, Darpino’s comeback has been put on hold until at least next week, with team physio Paul Baskin listing him as day-to-day.

Darpino said: “Every day I feel better, as the muscle regains its strength. As a competitor it’s very difficult for me to watch and not be able to play, but time is the best medicine at the moment.”

With the exception of Darpino, Thunder should be at full strength on Saturday night. Tip-off is at 7.30pm.