LANCASHIRE Spinners' improved performance in a 102-96 defeat in the National League at Bradford on Saturday provided the launchpad for a first victory of the season the following day against Liverpool.

The Bury-based side, who play their home games at Castle Leisure Centre, suffered three straight defeats in the National Trophy before the league campaign even began and provided little reason for cheer in their opening NBL loss against London Lituanica.

But after losing heavily at Bradford in the Trophy they gave a much better account of themselves in their league match at the weekend.

Forward Connor Murtagh scored 25 points and claimed six rebounds, while Mark Rangeley finished with 20 points and Jack Hudson 19.

They could not quite manage to force the win as the Spinners mirrored last season's start with two straight league defeats, but the improved display will give coach Neal Hopkins hope they can turn it around, just as they did last year when Lancashire finished with 16 wins from their 26 matches.

“It was a step in the right direction,” said Hopkins. “We haven’t been where we wanted to be competitively, but it was the first time we’ve really stepped up and shown what we were capable of.”

The following day, David Walsh scored 27 points, including seven three-pointers, as the Spinners rolled past Liverpool 119-50 to reach the fourth round of the National Cup.

“[Bradford] really boosted my confidence,” said Walsh. “I just didn’t think about anything all game other than I’ve got the hot hand.”

It was only the fourth time this decade that the Spinners have won a game by 50 points or more.

Spinners guard James Banton, who made his second consecutive start, added 20 points, while Rangeley added 18.