Key Points
- Newcastle Eagles advanced to the SLB Trophy Final after a 205-201 aggregate win over Cheshire Phoenix in the semi-finals.
- The team defends their title won last year against Bristol Flyers, facing London Lions on February 1, 2026, at Utilita Arena Birmingham.
- Head coach Marc Steutel described the Eagles as underdogs against the dominant London Lions, who recently defeated them 94-68 in the SLB Cup.
- Newcastle have lost seven straight games across competitions but aim for back-to-back Trophy triumphs.
Newcastle (Bristol Express News) January 31, 2026 – Newcastle Eagles are embracing their underdog status as they prepare to defend the SLB Trophy against London Lions.
The Eagles secured their place in the final with a narrow aggregate victory over Cheshire Phoenix, winning the first leg 100-89 and losing the second 105-112 but prevailing 205-201 overall. Key performers included Ray’Sean Taylor with 22 points in the second leg, Maceo Jack with 20, and MVP Cole Long with 19 points including six of eight three-pointers.
How Did Newcastle Eagles Reach the SLB Trophy Final?
The semi-final against Cheshire Phoenix proved a tense affair across two legs, with the Eagles holding an 11-point lead from the home first leg powered by 16 points each from Gus Okafor and Ray’Sean Taylor. In the chaotic second leg at Ellesmere Port, marked by 55 fouls and 79 free throws, Patrick Robinson scored 40 for Phoenix in their 112-105 win, but Newcastle’s composure secured passage to Birmingham.
As reported by Marc Steutel of Newcastle Eagles, “It was a really difficult situation to manage… But to put 205 points on the board against this team over two games shows our development and improvement.”
What Challenges Do the Eagles Face Against London Lions?
Newcastle Eagles recently suffered a 94-68 defeat to London Lions in the SLB Cup at Vertu Arena, marking their fourth loss in four games against the side this season and extending a seven-game losing streak across competitions. Coach Steutel noted the Lions’ third-quarter surge with four consecutive threes and challenging officiating in the fourth.
Why Are the Eagles Considered Underdogs?
Steutel acknowledged the mismatch, stating, “The odds are in their favour, we’re the underdogs and they are the giants but we’ll see them again.” Despite recent European and league setbacks, including losses to Rigas Zelli and London Lions, the Eagles prepare with nine days until the February 1 final at Utilita Arena Birmingham.
What Lies Ahead for the Trophy Defenders?
The final offers Newcastle a chance at back-to-back SLB Trophy titles following their 97-78 victory over Bristol Flyers last January, where Mike Okauru earned MVP honours. Tickets remain available for the event, alongside a midweek European home game against KK Dubrava.
Newcastle Eagles head coach Marc Steutel emphasised readiness, saying, “We’ll be ready,” as the team eyes another historic performance in Birmingham.
