NEWCASTLE EAGLES cemented their status as the most successful sports team in the North-East as they completed a second trophy clean sweep in the space of four years by winning the BBL Play-Off final at the O2 Arena in London.

The all-conquering Eagles beat London Lions 96-84 to add the Play-Off crown to the BBL Cup, Trophy and Championship they had already claimed this season.

While Fab Flournoy was injured and could play no part in the final, the success still represented a remarkable personal achievement for the player-coach, who is now the most decorated coach in BBL history.

The Eagles were forced to ride out a strong start from the Lions, who made the most of their hometown advantage and the support of a record 14,700 crowd to open up an early ten-point lead.

However, Newcastle gradually seized control, with their success owing much to a 23-point, nine assist and six rebound MVP performance from Rahmon Fletcher.

Great Britain captain, and former Eagle, Drew Sullivan led the Lions with a game-high 27 points, but his efforts proved in vain as Newcastle’s superior all-round squad strength told.

The Eagles boasted superior efficiency and control in the key moments, and duly became the first club to complete three clean sweeps.

Charles Smith finished with 24 points and Darius Defoe added 18, while Makal Stibbins claimed 17 points in a losing effort for the Lions.