Windless joined Riders from MK Lions in 2008

Leicester Riders veteran Tony Windless has backed his side to follow up Sunday's gutsy display against leaders with victory over MK Lions on Saturday.

Riders were edged out 109-100 in the BBL Cup but Windless said there is plenty to be encouraged by when they host his former side in the league.

"We played well in Cheshire," he said. "We're gelling together pretty well.

"We haven't won a league game yet, but looking at the schedule, we are capable of going on a bit of a run now."

Riders are also in action on Sunday when they have an away fixture against Essex Pirates.

We are still learning to play with each other, it has been like pre-season all over again, but I like the way we are shaping up Rob Paternostro

Rob Paternostro's men have already beaten them twice in the BBL Trophy and once in the BBL Cup this season.

But the Riders coach said his new-look side will not be complacent.

"Essex are a team that continues to play extremely hard," he said. "We are very aware of the problems they can cause on both ends of the floor.

"We are still learning to play with each other, it has been like pre-season for us all over again, but I like the way we are shaping up. We still have another player to add and we feel confident that we are set up for a nice run in the league.

"It's the middle of November and we have only played two league games so there is a long way to go."

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