WORCESTER Wolves women got the win needed to ensure a play-off appearance and their highest finish of third place in National League Division Two North.

Shanice Turner and Lucy Herdman starred in the 82-52 victory against Nottingham Trent Wildcats.

Turner poured in a season-high 32 points in the win including 11-13 from the free-throw line.

Herdman recorded the team's first triple double with 18 points, 10 rebounds and 10 steals.

The next day, a weakened Wolves team travelled to Mansfield Giants with the hosts needing to win to secure their own play-off appearance.

Worcester trailed 19-5 at the end of the first quarter and fought back but were hit by some big shots in a 61-48 defeat.

Wuraa Ijeluu led the way with 14 points and eight rebounds.

Head coach Ryan Emery said: "We played great against Wildcats. We were aggressive and able to lock in defensively in the second half to pull away.

"The next day, we paid for a slow start. We just can’t do that.

"We did some things really well, moved the ball well and didn’t turn it over but credit to Mansfield as they were able to execute down the stretch to earn their play-off spot."

Emery continued: "Making the play-offs for the second straight year is a great achievement by the team.

"We didn’t only make the play-offs but improved on last season and getting a third-place seeding is testament to the hard work and commitment by the players.

"These players are all aged between 18 and 21 and students at the University of Worcester.

"They have been pushed and coached really hard this year and their improvement is testament to their willingness to learn and get better."

Wolves travel down to Kent to play Sevenoaks Suns seconds on Saturday.