Gary Smith hopes he does not have to make a playing comeback at Worthing Thunder.

The popular coach was suited up for last Saturday's important Trophy win at home to North London.

Smith's services were not required as his side ended a two-game losing run by easing through 116-94 and he will be happy enough if it stays that way.

He joked: "I was ready to go but the coach wouldn't put me on.

"If they need me I will go out there but I know these guys can take care of business by themselves.

"I pulled a thigh muscle in training this week so I guess any plans of a comeback are on hold for a couple of weeks anyway."

Smith's presence takes the Thunder bench back up to ten men following the recent departure of James Crabtree.

The coach is planning to add juniors Ollie Roache and Sam Mead to the squad to give them valuable match night experience.

Plans for Steve Nelson to play have been ditched but the former Bears star is on the telephone to Smith at least once a week, discussing the team's performances and offering advice where necessary.

He will have received positive feedback from last week's win, in which Sean Hampton hit 40 points.

Smith said: "The team got it together offensively. We dug ourselves a hole but we got out of it by the third quarter.

"Maybe we should have won by 35 but the game was over by the last quarter."

Brighton Cougars made it three straight wins in Division Two South with a 94-91 verdict over bogey side Barking and Dagenham.

Former Bear Stuart Newman hit 24 points and American Brian Snyder 23 while John Mills' three quickfire three-pointers were also crucial.