The North West Dragons want to build on their good start to the season when they play their first home game in Potchefstroom on the weekend.

The Dragons pulled a rabbit out of a hat in Bloemfontein on Saturday as they beat the Knights by three runs according to the DLS method at the Mangaung Oval.

With the Knights en route to what looked like a sure win, the Dragons showed a lot of character to claim the victory.

With the bat, the captain Wihan Lubbe scored 58 runs, while Janneman Malan made 40 on debut and Lesiba Ngoepe played a very handy innings with 32 not out.

Wihan Lubbe and Janneman Malan. Photo: CSA

With the ball the former Knights left-arm seam took 3/40 in his four overs, and Kewin Mungroo finished with 1/23 in four overs. His final over swung the game in favour of the visitors from Potchefstroom.

This week the Dragons will host Western Province and the coach, Craig Alexander, told OFM Sport they can build on the positive start.

“Like you said, it was a humdinger to start with, and I think it was a very pleasing game to the crowd and the viewers who came out to watch,” said Alexander.

“You know, it’s the first game of the season and I think the crowd got exactly what they wanted, not so much the home crowd, because obviously we won, but I’m really happy with some performances in the team.

“I think as a team, we did well. I don’t think it was necessarily our best performance, but I’m really happy with how the team showed the fight they showed on the field. That just says to me, like I said to you the last time, for me, it's about the character in the changing room and on the field, and I definitely do have the character I need.

“A very good start to the season and it’s a win for us. I’m very happy that we could start the season off on a high.”

Province will head to Potchefstroom wanting to make a statement after their Cape derby against Boland at Newlands on Sunday rained out.

Friday’s game between the Dragons and Province at the JB Marks Oval is scheduled to start at 18:00.

OFM Sport/Morgan Piek dg