Basketball: Shelton ensures Guildford feel heat

Sheffield Sharks clawed their way back into the BBL Championship title race last night with a 71-62 home win over leaders Guildford Heat, drawing level with the Surrey club at the top of the table but having played two games more.

Blake Shelton and Eddie Cage led the scorers for Sharks with 19 points each and it was Shelton's steal and dunk that started an 11-2 run for the match-winning 71-59 lead. Guildford trailed throughout, although Brian Dux sunk 19 points.

Shawan Robinson and TJ Walker scored 15 points each for Newcastle Eagles, who beat London United 89-68 to leapfrog Plymouth Raiders into third place.

Chester Jets have signed American forward Louis McCullough, moving club stalwart Mike Burton back into the coaching role to relieve pressure on player-coach Billy Singleton.