NEW basketball team Malvern Mavericks have secured a final after their first season in the Gloucestershire League.

Mavericks, only formed last year, had a lot of teething problems in the league, finishing 10th out of 12 team.

But they then competed in a handicap cup with three wins against tough teams in Gloucestershire University Raiders, Gloucester Warriors and Gloucester Eagles needed to guarantee a final spot.

After beating Raiders and gaining a walkover against Warriors, Mavericks beat Eagles 89-77 to secure a final berth after starting the game 15 down on handicap.

Mavericks took their first lead of the game at 56-55 by half-time and the eventual victory guaranteed a spot in the final at Hartpury on Sunday.