BRENTWOOD-based Essex Leopards will face two Commonwealth Games medallists on Saturday as they look to book a place in the National Trophy knockout stage.

After splitting their games over the weekend, the Big Cats are one of three sides tied in second spot. They now face the Westminster Warriors who must win to stand a realistic chance of reaching the quarter-finals.

The London side pulled off a major coup over the summer with the signings of Mike Martin and Julius Joseph, who both have long professional careers in Britain and Europe, as well as having played for Great Britain and England, helping the latter to bronze in the 2006 Commonwealth Games.

The Big Cats, unbeaten at Harlow where they also play, will field new Swedish centre Lukas Winegarner.

Tip-off is at 7.30pm, tickets available on the door.