Bradford Maroons have made a promising start to their EBL Division Four North campaign in response to last season’s relegation.

They opened with a tough trip to Teesside and were rewarded with an 88-74 victory as they finished strongly against ambitious Middlesbrough Lions.

Top-scorer for the Maroons was Cyrus Dennis with 24 points, backed up by Max Steele (13).

In contrast to recent close-seasons, the Maroons have been able to strengthen their squad to give player-coach Reuben Malek greater options.

This was evident in their second game as they finished well once more to beat city rivals Bradford Dragons Seconds 63-55 after trailing 36-30 at half-time.

Dennis top-scored again with 18 points as Dut Malek and Adam Harper chipped in with 16 and nine points respectively.

Later in the day, the Maroons continued their good form with victory over Leeds Carnegie in the Leeds Basketball League Knockout Cup.

Tomorrow sees the Maroons travel to Lancashire for their latest league game against Burnley College Blaze, who finished third last season.