WORCESTER Wolves guard Kofi Josephs believes the hosts can finish on the right end of a "pretty even match-up" in their BBL Cup quarter-final on Friday night (7.30pm).

Wolves tackle old rivals Newcastle Eagles at the University of Worcester Arena after securing a home tie by finishing second in the South Group.

Birmingham-born Great Britain and England international Joseph, 28, has enjoyed welcoming 6ft 11in American centre Amir Williams into the mix this week ahead of the cup showdown.

Last time the sides met back in March only three points separated them as Newcastle won 96-93 in Worcester.

Shooting guard Josephs said: “Eagles have just signed CJ Gettys who is 7ft. I think we will match up better now than if we didn’t have Amir.

“They are a big team but fairly guard-dominated just like we are so it’s going to be a pretty even match-up.

“We had Amir come in this week and he is going to be great.

“He is a key factor to what we need in terms of size which will really help us. He’s coming at a perfect time.

“We are ticking over nicely, practising well and learning more about each other day in day out.

“We played Newcastle in pre-season, they have improved and made changes but so have we.

“I’m confident in the guys, myself and the coach."

Josephs again hopes a vociferous Worcester backing at the arena will help lead the side into the last four.

Wolves finished second in the group behind London City Royals with six wins and four defeats from 10 games.

Eagles claimed third spot in the north section with the same record as Worcester to also secure 12 points.

Josephs continued: “The Wolfpack (Wolves' fans) are the sixth man every single game, even the games we have lost.

"Without them we could have lost by more. The games we have won have definitely been because of them.

“We need everyone to be out there shouting and letting the other team have it!

“We need to perform and we need them (the fans) to perform so we can win together.

“I don’t play to lose. We are going to prepare the right way and give our best.”

New signing Williams said after arriving at the club on Monday: “I’m still adjusting.

"It’s always difficult travelling from America out of the country but I will be OK.

“It’s going to be a great opportunity. The coach has explained to me the season they’ve had so far. There have been a lot of cup games.

“I’m just excited to get going and get my first chance to play against guys in the BBL. This is my first time in England.

“Offensively I’m a back-to-the-basket type player, I try to offensive rebound and stay at the near-post area.

“Defensively I try to control the paint and be aggressive.”

Wolves have been drawn to visit Cheshire Phoenix at the Cheshire Oaks Arena in the BBL Trophy first round on Sunday, January 5 (5.30pm).

Worcester start the long-awaited BBL Championship campaign on Friday next week at home to Surrey Scorchers (7.30pm).