Coach Mike Nichols praised his Bury Blue Devils side for going the extra mile following their 75-52 victory against Our Ladies in the play-off quarter-final contest last week.

Having already beaten Our Ladies twice in the Championship match-ups this season, the player-manager was confident his team could get a third win over their rivals to advance to the league semi-finals, and was particularly impressed with man-of-the-match Phil Stainton.

"I was confident we would win the game because the players can find that extra gear at times when we need it," he said.

"Phil hit some big shots that swung the momentum back in our favour, and although he isn't the tallest, he grabbed some crucial offensive rebounds too."

Aided by sharp shooting by Jason Knowles, strong play by Bart Szareko and Stainton brothers Chris and Phil, the Devils made a bright start to lead 13-2.

The defence stifled the visitors and late arrival Kin Ming Lin added to the total to give Bury a 21-12 advantage at the end of the first quarter.

Youngster Scott Maffia began the second period with a three before the visitors made a push to reduce the deficit scoring six straight points to pull to within four.

However, Bury upped the tempo with exquisite passing. Bart Szarejko scored four successive points, coach Mike Nichols hit a three and this was followed by scores from Phil Stainton as the Devils led 37-28 at half time.

Bury shifted the defence to a zone in the third quarter to limit the offensive rebounds by Our Ladies, while Ming hit a three and the Stainton brothers also contributed well.

However, despite the efforts of Ergoli Togo, who shot over a 6'7" player, Bury could not pull away as the visitors again came back to within seven points when the Devils failed to hit free throws. With one quarter remaining, Bury held on to a 10-point lead at 52-42.

Although the visitors pulled to within six points at 54-48, Nichols and Phil Stainton extended the lead to 12 points. With the team moving the ball well and cutting off the ball to find gaps the Bury side held a 10-point lead going into the final four minutes.

With the help of Ming, Szareko went on a mission when he extended the lead to 20 as Bury ran out 75-52 winners.

The Blue Devils play their play-off semi-final against YMCA on Saturday, and if they win, are likely to face undefeated league champions Free City in Sunday’s final.