Rossendale Raptors’ Stephen Gayle says victories over Burnley and Bradford has ‘transformed the mindset’ of the players.

"I think we believe we can win every game now, we’re not scared of anyone," said Gayle.

The Longsight-born point guard joined the Raptors in October after leaving BBL side Cheshire Jets in the summer.

Their 87-59 and 104-62 wins last weekend over Burnley and Bradford, respectively, saw them leapfrog both teams to assume second place behind Stockport in Division Four.

"Burnley were ahead of us in the league but I don’t think it was a surprise we beat them," said Gayle (31).

"We went there to get the job done and we did it. They are a youthful side and thought the game would be played at a slow pace and they’d be able to use their energy and speed to overcome us.

"They didn’t realise that I might be old but I can still play."

After defeating Burnley at the Haslingden Sports Centre, the Raptors travelled to Parkside Sports Centre to take on Bradford.

"We went into the Bradford game full of confidence. We had to attack and take the game to them," said Gayle.

"Before, I think we were sitting back, watching and waiting. Now the mindset has transformed, we’re really going out to win by as many points as we can."

The change in attitude has extended from the court to the locker room, where Gayle says he feels more accepted by his new team-mates.

"Before, I would have said I didn't know whether I had been accepted," he said. "But in training this week I had some of the guys coming up to me asking for advice on how to improve their game.

"I’ve done coaching in schools before but I’ve never experienced teaching adults before so it would be good to see them benefit from my advice."

The Raptors have a week break from competition before facing league leaders Stockport on December 10. It is a game which, if the Raptors won, Gayle thinks would send a real message to the rest of the league.

"We have to play the best and beat them if we want to win the league," he said.

"Playing in the BBL everyone knows what job they’re doing. In the EBL they are capable of doing a job but they're not quite sure what that job is. I see my role as helping them recognise where there strengths lie.

"I’ll help this team get promoted into the third division. I more than believe that’s what we’ll achieve this season."

http://menmedia.co.uk/rossendalefreepress/sport/s/1466753_net-gains-for-raptors