Worthing Thunder’s Ishmael Fontaine said his side’s 94-91 victory at Newcastle University as “the product of hard work” as they exacted revenge for their overtime defeat a fortnight ago, writes Henry Parish.

Fontaine, who shot four-of-six from the perimeter, said: “The game was fun. Our points spread was healthy. When we move the ball well, we are difficult to defend.”

Fontaine came joint second in scoring, tying on 14 with captain Hafeez Abdul and Tyler Fairbairn.

Daniel Johnson-Thompson starred against his old side with a double-double in points and rebounds, leading Thunder with 18 points.

Despite leading for large swathes of the match, Thunder found themselves five adrift entering the last ten minutes.

The Tyneside team, without scoring heavyweight Justin Hopkins, found themselves in fine form.

Logan Rooney and Josh Moore, who scored 30 and 28 points respectively, shot with devastating accuracy to keep trading baskets with Thunder.

Johnson-Thompson then took matters into his own hands, adding eight points personally.

His heroics inspired Abdul and Fontaine from the perimeter, swiftly asserting dominance as Joshua Palmer replied to 6ft 7ins Emmanuel Kanwei’s lay-up.

Rooney had a chance to put the hosts within a shot of Thunder but he could not convert both free throws, handing victory to Thunder.

Thunder made the 339-mile trip light of numbers, only taking eight.

Their youthful bench played a pivotal role in victory. Their total of 26 points obliterated Newcastle’s contribution of eight.

Fontaine said: “Luke (Moore) provided a spark for us, rewarding good team play when he, and John Fairbairn, scored in open play. Tyler (Fairbairn) kept us out of Newcastle’s reach with great post play.

“Joshua Palmer worked well exploiting mismatches with his speed and tenacity. Tola (Okiki) got us in good spots and was awesome defensively in the second half.”

Thunder host title challengers Derby Trailblazers on Saturday (7.30pm).

Fontaine relishes the challenge, saying: “Derby is a well-coached and organised team. This might be more of a chess match.”

“Games at this level are about knowing your opponent. Everyone needs to be on the same page, coming to a consensus about the game plan is important.”