Derby Storm may have been short-handed but they came to the Brighton Centre ready to play on Saturday.

Kevin Wall's side lost star Antonio Garcia last weekend and their trouble was doubled before the game after forward Michael New left the club after agreeing a deal to play in France. 

However the Storm set aside their customary away form to overcome the Bears 74-89, helped largely by 32 points from Barry Bowman and a poor shooting display from the hosts.

Down 15-24 after the opening quarter, Brighton could not find their touch, ending with a miserable 4/24 from three point range which left the visitors able to capitalise.

Dave Wahl had his best game for Mark Dunning's squad to date, pulling down 26 rebounds and 16 points but the Canadian could not inspire his team against an opponent which overcame its weaknesses with hustle.

"That's a great win for us," pointed out Wall, correctly, his team taking a 35-39 lead into half-time before pulling clear with a 3-14 start to the third period.

Led by Wil Johnson's 21 points, Brighton - who were without the injured Mike Brown - closed in the latter stages, Wahl converting a three pointer from his own rebound to make it 66-71 with four minutes left.

However they came no closer, Johnson fouling out before the finish.

"We liked our match-ups coming in and they took advantage of it," said Wall in praise of his team. "Garcia's loss pulled us together and while Michael's leaving hurt, it was a great opportunity for him.

"With these two guys we've got coming in, we'll be tough to deal with."