MANCHESTER Giants are gearing up for a vital clash in their drive to reach the British Basketball League play-offs.

The Giants host Leeds Force at the Trafford Sportsdome on Sunday (6pm) looking to bounce back after last weekend's loss to league leaders Newcastle Eagles.

A win over Leeds would boost their chances of making the top eight and reach the post-season action.

But coach Jeff Jones' ninth-placed men will be looking to quickly put last weekend's home disappointment to the Eagles behind them.

The Giants ran into an in-form Newcastle at the Sportsdome.

Newcastle rarely look like missing a beat these days and they showed their impressive offensive prowess.

Both teams jumped into the contest with all guns blazing in a smooth first quarter as the Eagles edged 30-27 in front.

But the Giants began to dry up in the second period and the visitors managed to retain their offensive high tide with an 60-42 half-time lead.

Despite working hard, the Giants could not hit back despite 22 points from Ingus Bankevics, while Ben Eaves (22 points and 11 rebounds) posted a double-double.

However, they were a long way short of stopping the relentless surge of the Eagles.

Jones said: “They are streets ahead of anybody else in the league and they showed it again.

“They have some real talent, they work hard and they are used to winning.

“From an offensive perspective we were quite good. To score 87 against a team of that quality bodes well but defensive we didn’t compete.

“We are going to have to go and get it against Leeds next weekend.”

Giants v Leeds tips off at 6pm. Tickets are available at manchestergiants.com or on the door.