Bradford Dragons could not get the new year off to a positive start as they lost 73-65 at Westminster Warriors in vcars.co.uk Division One.

The Dragons got off to a slow start, scoring only 13 points in the first ten minutes while the Warriors were able to put up 19 on the back of strong offensive play from Jonathan Johnson.

Bradford’s offense finally found their rhythm in the second quarter as they brought Westminster’s lead down to just three points before the half-time break.

The Warriors regrouped and refocused their defensive effort in the third period as they again limited the Dragons to 13 points while maintaining their steady offensive production. This extended the hosts’ lead to eight points to take into the final period.

The Dragons raised their game once more but it was all too late as the Warriors held out for an eight-point win.

Bradford’s scoring was led by Vance Silcott with 19 points, assisted by Ricky Fetske (13). Johnson led all scorers for Westminster with 28.

Dragons head coach Chris Mellor was disappointed by his team’s display and said: “Our overall effort was not good enough. We were second best to every loose ball.

“We were out-rebounded offensively and we shot poorly, while Westminster played a good game and they consistently punished our mistakes.”

The Dragons now head into a home double-header next weekend, facing Bristol in the league on Saturday before the National Trophy quarter-final against Hemel on Sunday. Both games take place at Bradford College, Trinity Road, tipping off at 6.15pm and 4.15pm respectively.

Meanwhile, Bradford’s under-18 men’s side pulled off a hard-fought 94-85 win against in-form Doncaster Danum Eagles.