Solent Stars' men's second team lost top spot in the National League Division 3 South in a 77-65 defeat at South Nottingham Wildcats on Saturday - but coach Mick Byrne took away many plus points from the game.

It was closely fought throughout and Solent's young side, with four players missing, grew in confidence as the match progressed.

They took the game to the Wildcats from the tip-off and, with Clayton Milner, right, well motivated, led 22-11 after eight minutes.

Trevor Donaldson's two big three pointers set the standard for the younger players, some of whom were making their first appearance in the starting five.

The Wildcats pressed home their considerable height advantage in the second quarter and, despite huge efforts from Milner and Jon Rumsey, Solent were unable to compete on the boards.

Lawrence Rowe came off the bench to score a quick four points, but Solent trailed 42-36 at half-time.

Ryan Payne ran into trouble with three quick fouls in the second quarter, but showed his class throughout the game, particularly in the third quarter where he spurred on Craig Dawson and Rowe to their best performances of the season.

Mike Peel and debutant Ben Wathey came into the game - Wathey taking the opportunity to link up with Payne and score five points.

James Chubb was also elated to score his first ever points in the NBL.

Solent scorers: Milner 21, Payne 14, Rumsey 9, Donaldson 7, Rowe 7, Wathey 5, Chubb 2.