GREG Hernandez guided Essex Leopards to the quarter finals of the National trophy with an 81-61 win at Hemel Storm on Saturday.

Hernandez top scored with 22 points and also landed 10 rebounds during an impressive display.

But the 24-year-old centre still feels he has yet to hit to hit top form after missing the start of the season with a foot injury.

“It was pleasing at the weekend and I was happy with my performance but I’m still only at about 85 to 90 per cent there,” said Hernandez.

“I think in the next couple of weeks I will get to where I want to be and I’m excited about that because then I’ll play like I know I can.

“However, I really felt in the zone in the first half at the weekend but everyone played well and it was perfect because it sent us through to the next round.

“The win also saw us finish second in our group and that means we will be at home in the quarter finals.”

Leopards will host Derby Trailblazers in the last eight at the Basildon Sporting Village on Sunday January 13.

Hernandez was assisted by Carl Josey who finished with 17 points, while Taner Adu added a further 14.

Leopards are back in action this weekend as they start their league campaign on Saturday away at Worthing Thunder.

On Sunday they take on London Lituanica at the Brentwood Centre in the third round of the National Cup, tip off 4pm.