BRADFORD Dragons recorded a first-ever victory against arch-rivals Hemel Storm to revive their English Basketball League play-off hopes.

The Dragons travelled on the back of a five-game losing streak but a high-scoring 106-96 win left them ninth in Division One, just one place outside the end-of-season finale.

Bradford just had the edge over their hosts in a tight first quarter, which saw them take a narrow 26-25 advantage into the first recess.

But it was in the second period that the visitors did most damage, adding a further 17 points to their lead and going back to the locker room much the happier side at 64-48 in front.

Hemel reduced the deficit in both of the remaining quarters but never really threatened to get close and it was the Dragons who came away with a well-deserved ten-point victory.

Spanish centre Miguel Lorenzo top-scored for Bradford with an impressive 27-point haul, with American point-guard JP Davis just behind on 24.

Rihards Sulcs, John Bantock and Jason Swaine were all involved around the basket, sinking 15 points apiece.

Dragons head coach Chris Mellor said: "We played really well offensively – our ball movement, shot selection and shooting percentages were very good – and we had five players scoring at least 15 points.

"Defensively we weren't great but we rebounded well and limited their transition points. At the end of the day, it was a much-needed win for us."

Davis added: "It was a big-time road win with a complete effort from the whole squad. We are not dead yet and are still chasing that all- important play-off spot."

Next up is a home double-header against Westminster Warriors this coming Saturday (6.15pm), followed by Essex Leopards on Sunday (4.15pm).

Meanwhile, the Dragons under-16s beat Manchester Magic 86-79, while the under-14s overcame St Aiden's Harrogate 55-93.