By Chris Phillips

HAGGAI Hundert cannot wait for Saturday's encounter with Plymouth Raiders at the Southend Leisure and Tennis Centre.

For not only will the point guard be lining up against his former side.

But he will also be watched by his father who is currently visiting England from Israel.

“I’m excited about this game,” said the 25-year-old Hundert, who joined Pirates in November.

“We’re playing against my former club, my dad is here and I’m so happy he has a chance to see me play again after more than two years.

“As for the game itself, it’s an even match-up all around.

“Both clubs play an up-tempo style but if we play to our potential, especially in front of our home crowd, we should get the win.”

Pirates did that last time they faced Raiders in February as they came out on top at the Plymouth Pavilions.

But they head into the latest showdown on the back of a frustrating defeat after being seen off by Cheshire Jets last weekend.

“Our last game was disappointing because we didn’t play with a sense of urgency,” said Hundert.

“For us to win, we have to play hard and with pride every possession and we didn’t do it against Cheshire.”

Pirates will therefore have to improve against the in-form Raiders who have won four of their last five games.

And Hundert is expecting another difficult test on his side's home court.

“Plymouth are in transition but they are fast and when they run, they are dangerous,” said Hundert.

“We have to keep them out of the paint and make them a contested jump-shooting team.

“They have two go-to guys in Lasker and Valencia but he can't play on Saturday.

“We have to limit Lasker's touches though and make sure his looks at the basket more difficult.”

Hundert is well equipped to assess Raiders' strengths too having played for them himself last season during a successful spell he looks back on with great fondness,

“I enjoyed being part of the Raiders organisation and had a good time living in Plymouth,” said Hundert.

“ I have a lot of respect for the people behind the scenes and the fans.

“We had a rather successful season with a final four finish so it was a positive experience on and off the court but of course I want to beat them this weekend.”