KEAR TARGETS 80-MINUTE DISPLAY

BRADFORD Bulls head coach John Kear has challenged his players to be consistent across the full eighty minutes – following yesterday’s Challenge Cup exit at the hands of Featherstone Rovers.

After a disappointing loss at the hands of Featherstone Rovers in the Betfred Challenge Cup, John Kear sets his full focus on the league opener against Sheffield Eagles in two weeks’ time. 

A strong start to both halves saw Reece Hamlett (2) and Ebon Scurr register scores – with Bradford losing key player Sam Hallas to an early injury.

A former Sheffield coach himself, he will be looking to put all thoughts of the Featherstone game behind as we look to kick start our campaign in winning fashion. 

The visitors spurned numerous opportunities to add to their early advantage before the home side hit back and ended both halves the stronger.

The Bradford boss has called on his side to be more resilient in the tougher patches of contests – but maintains belief there is plenty more to come from the players.

“We had 20 minutes at the start of each half where we were 8/10, we need to carry that on throughout the whole game to stand with a chance of winning,” said Kear, who is sponsored by Bradford Bulls Banter. 

“Sam Hallas going off was a big blow to us, as that meant the big lads had to stay on longer and Featherstone targeted that.

“I’m confident we’ll get better as the season goes on, we have a couple of young players who are still adapting to the faster and tougher Rugby League game. 

“We create enough chances so I know that we can challenge the good teams.

“The turning point for me was when Ebon scored but then we made an error and Featherstone scored off the back of that, this is where we’d be looking to cut errors out that cost us.

“We have to find a middle ground when we’re having a tough section during games and not drop as low as we did today, as that can cost us.”