Ring-rusty Bradford Dragons struggled to a 68-66 win against Mansfield Giants but are still unbeaten and stay top of English Basketball League Division Two.

Despite a four-week lay-off, Dragons dominated the opening period and led 19-12 at the first break.

The hosts pulled further ahead to lead 35-25 at half- time but were unable to capitalise upon a quiet Giants offence that failed to convert shots from the charity stripe.

Despite a brace of treys from Raimond Pabrieza, the Giants defence started to dominate the game and they edged the third stanza to give Dragons a 52-43 lead at the final break.

Rihard Sulcs fouled out early in the fourth quarter as the veteran Danny Richards pulled Giants back into the game and narrow the gap to three points.

A brace of treys from brother Daumants Pabrieza and a lay-up restored the Dragons’ lead to ten with two minutes to go.

Again the Giants defence forced Dragons turnovers to narrow the gap but Dragons hung on to win.

For Dragons, Daumants Pabrieza scored 21, Raimond Pabrieza 19 and Vance Silcott made another double double with 11 points and 12 rebounds.

After the game, Dragons coach Chris Mellor said: “Both teams looked a bit out of sorts and struggled offensively.

“We led throughout and built up a nice lead, but then got sloppy towards the end and lost concentration.”

Elsewhere for Dragons, their under-16s lost 78-61 at home to leaders Tees Valley Mohawks but beat visitors Derbyshire Arrows 73-58 the following day.

Dragons’ under-18s lost 78-68 at home to the Mohawks, despite leading by 13 at half-time, and then lost 68-51 at home to Derbyshire Arrows.

The Dragons under-14s travelled to Hartlepool Heat and celebrated their first win of the season by 62-54.

Dragons seniors’ next league match is at home against Medway Park Crusaders on Saturday in Trinity Green Sports Hall, Bradford College, Trinity Road, Bradford BD5 0JE (6.15pm). Admission is £3 or £1.50 for concessions.

For further details contact Stuart Culliford on 0781-661-0600 or e-mail info@bradforddragons.co.uk or visit the Dragons’ website at www.bradforddragons.co.uk.