Leopards made the perfect start to the EBL Division One season with a pair of three-point wins in the north east over the weekend .

Robert Youngblood’s side won 89-86 at Tees Valley Mohawks on Saturday before making it two victories in as many days with a 74-71 success at Team Northumbria .

The Big Cats travel to strugglers Leicester Warriors on Saturday before returning to the Brentwood Centre on Friday November 15 when unbeaten Newham Neptunes are the visitors, tip-off 7.30pm .

A strong first half proved to be the key at Tees Valley as the Big Cats gained revenge for their National Trophy loss against the Mohawks.

Led by 23 points from Kris Clark, the visitors led 24-19 at the first break before controlling the second period to lead 49-37 going into the locker room at half-time .

A third period injury to American big man Howard Crawford upset Leopards rhythm as he received a blow to the face, and the home side cut the lead to 72-64 heading into the final period .

The home side continued to chip away at the lead, but the Big Cats went into the final minute 84-79 ahead and they trailed by just two heading into the final 11 seconds before Leopards wrapped things up at the foul line .

Captain Carl  Josey finished with 22 points while Crawford added 14.

2008 – Taunton Tigers 93 London Leopards 78

National Trophy Southern Group @ Wellsprings Leisure Centre