ZAIRE Taylor scored 41 points against his former club as holders Worcester Wolves suffered a crushing defeat against London Lions in the quarter-final stage of the British Basketball League play-offs.

Trailing 80-75 from the first leg in Worcester, Wolves were today torn to shreds by Taylor who inspired a 106-67 demolition in the second match at the Copper Box.

It was perhaps one step too far for Paul James’ side who celebrated winning the title last year at Wembley Arena.

They were comprehensively beaten 186-142 on aggregate over the two games as Lions set up a final four meeting with Cheshire Phoenix.

Taylor was BBL play-off final most valuable player while leading Worcester to the title last season and was influential in the latest clash, connecting on seven of his 11 three-point attempts.

He set the tone early with 14 points in the opening period to give Lions an eight-point edge on the night.

Drew Sullivan also shone on the big occasion for London, tallying 22 points.

Wolves’ star centre Robert Thurman started the game on the bench.

Although James’ side stuck with their hosts in the second period, they were outscored in the third 30-10.

Wolves committed 16 turn-overs in total as they were beaten across the board although Alex Owumi managed 18 points.