Brighton Bears face another Contintental test as their pre-season programme moves to the midlands this weekend.

Bears tackle last season's French Pro B strugglers Brest in the Birmingham tournament tomorrow.

They then take on Sheffield on Sunday before playing off for first, third or fifth place later in the day.

Bud Johnston (ankle) is doubtful for the trip but coach Nick Nurse said: "We are excited about the weekend.

"We do not really care who we play. Our progress is way ahead of schedule and the guys are fitting together pretty well."

Worthing Thunder's defensive improvement faces a major test in the NBL Trophy tomorrow when their former favourite Paul Mundy-Castle returns with Sutton Pumas.

Thunder kept Westminster down to 63 points last week with new boys Lavoris Jerry and Daniel Hildreth earning high marks.

Coach Gary Smith said: "We are looking a lot better at the defensive end. Our guys are playing with a smile on their faces and last year we did not have that."

Thunder's match is preceded by the first Worthing Magic game of the season.

The division two south season opens with a Sussex derby as Brighton Cougars host Bognor Pirates.

Pirates have signed 6ft 6ins Dane Jan Albrechtson while Canadian Steve McQueen is joined at Cougars by Frenchman Emmanuel Laroche and former Bears squad men Ciaran Burns and Jon Turner.