MERSEY Tigers missed the chance to strengthen their position at the top of the BBL Championship as they went down 78-76 to Guildford Heat on Saturday.
James Jones poured in 24 points for the Tigers, whose lead over Newcastle Eagles was cut to two points after the north east side edged out Worcester Wolves 79-78 after overtime.
Charles Smith had 26 points for Newcastle, who also have a game in hand on the leaders.
Fourth-placed Cheshire Jets also slipped up as they went down 102-94 at Plymouth Raiders, despite a game-high 28 points from Jeremy Bell.
Leicester Riders were 88-70 winners over Essex Pirates.
The previous day, the Tigers had extended their lead at the top of the BBL as they enjoyed an emphatic 88-50 win over Glasgow Rocks.
David Alio scored 21 points and Andrew Thomson contributed 18 as they led throughout to stretch their lead over Newcastle Eagles to four points.
Sheffield Sharks are third, level on points with Newcastle, after a 110-75 win over Worthing Thunder as Ryan Patton scored 24 points for the south Yorkshire side.
MK Lions enjoyed a vital 105-98 victory over Guildford Heat as they look to move away from the bottom of the table.
Damarius Bolds and Travis Nelson both scored 30 points with Tayo Ogedengbe sinking 19.
