Bradford Dragons close in on quarter-final spot (From Bradford Telegraph and Argus)

Bradford Dragons close in on quarter-final spot

6:10pm Monday 8th October 2012 in Sport

Bradford Dragons had a mixed weekend as they claimed their third win in the National Trophy on Saturday but crashed out of the National Cup on Sunday.

The National Trophy game against Team Northumbria was, as predicted, a defensive showdown as both teams worked hard to shut the other out.

Dragons led 20-11 after the first quarter and 38-30 at half-time before Northumbria hit a purple patch, winning the third quarter 20-12 to draw level at 50-50.

A strong finish saw Dragons win the final quarter to register their third Trophy win of the season, meaning they are just one victory away from the quarter-finals.

Top scorers were Bobby Edmunds (17) and Rihards Sulcs (16).

The following day, Dragons lost to Leeds Carnegie in the National Cup.

Leeds were eight points clear at half-time and five up going into the final quarter and they held on to win 68-61. Edmunds led the way again with 16 points. Henry Wilkins scored 22 points for Leeds, who progress into the third round against Tees Valley Mohawks.

Dragons are home to Bristol Academy Flyers in the National Trophy on Sunday at Bradford College Sports Hall (tip-off 4.15pm).

Elsewhere, Dragons III lost 68-46 against Aireborough Arrows, the U-18s lost 80-67 at York Eagles, the U-16s lost 108-47 to Bury Blue Devils and the U-14s were beaten 101-52 by Sheffield Saints.