Worthing Thunder let slip a 14 point lead to suffer a shock 92-87 defeat at Solent Stars in the NBL Conference.

They looked to be going out of sight in the second quarter but saw their big advantage pegged back to 50-42 at the midway point and were level at 72-72 going into the fourth quarter.

Star of the show was Solent's debut-making American forward, Howard Jackson who only flew in on Friday but hit 28 points and was an effective leader of his new team mates.

Former Thunder man Mark Vingo celebrated his first Solent outing with 14 points and ex-Bear Mark Jackson added 11. For Thunder, skipper Gaylon Moore battled on despite a painful knee to lead their scoring, 17 of his points coming in the second half as his team mates dried-up.

Thunder now face a three week Christmas lay-off although they hope to re-arrange a League match for the week leading up to their Cup final with Teesside on January 12.

Coach tickets for the big one are still available by calling (01903) 244803.

Thunder: Moore 26, Addy 18, Jerry 18, O'Haraby 12, Harris 6, Hildreth 3, Malik 2, Brame 2.