Monday 29 April 2013

Bulls hunted down by the Wolves



 BULLieve

29th April 2013

 

Hi everyone and welcome to another edition of BULLieve.

This week we are gearing up for the home tie of the season. Yes, it’s derby day against Leeds Rhino’s. Before that, I will round up the week’s news.

Firstly, I would like to say a massive thank you to the lads on their charity swim for the Marie Currie Bradford Hospice. Heath L’Estrange, Adrian Purtell, Nick Scruton, Elliott Whitehead and Brett Kearney all took part, raising funds in the process. The community and charity work the lads and the club do is amazing. Keeping up the community links is pivotal to the club and long may it continue. Well done lads great effort all round.

The exiles squad was named this week too. Pleasing to have their efforts recognised and rewarded, Bulls Hooker Heath L’Estrange, Prop Manase Manuokafoa and stand-off Jarrod Sammut have all been named in Coach Brian McLennan’s Squad for the game. I was however a little taken a back to not see Brett Kearney named in the squad.  Let’s hope the lads can come through the game unscathed and continue the hard work they are doing for the Bulls.

The Exiles will face England on Friday 14th June at Warrington’s Halliwell Jones Stadium.

Tickets for the 2013 International Origin Game, England v Exiles at The Halliwell Jones Stadium, Warrington, are now on sale from the RFL Ticket Office on 0844 856 1113 and online at rugbyleaguetickets.co.uk Tickets can also be purchased from the  Halliwell Jones Stadium Ticket Office.

Yet more great news for our very own Heath L’Estrange this week, Heath and his wife Jess are expecting a baby. This is great for Heath and Jess and they will be super parents without a doubt. Heath himself says “its great news and I'd like to thank everyone for their kind messages.” You and Jess are welcome and hopefully your baby will become a future Bull or Bullette.

Unfortunately, we have learnt, that Bulls winger Jamie Foster may have to sit on the side-lines for up to 3 months after picking up an injury in the challenge cup game against the Rochdale Hornets. Jamie’s tendon has ripped off the bone and will need surgery to correct the injury. Get well soon Jamie from all Bulls fans. Also it has been revealed that Jamie Foster would like to extend his contract here at the Bulls. This is superb news, not just for the club but for Jamie and the fans. Jamie is a big hit with the Bulls faithful and hopefully we shall see Jamie put pen to paper in the near future.

The draw for the fifth round of the Tetley’s challenge cup took place early in the week and, we have been drawn away to London Bronco’s. The club worked tirelessly to try and get the fixture at a suitable time and venue but, unfortunately this could not have been achieved. Our fifth round tie will take place at the Twickenham Stoop on Friday 10th May and kick off is 8pm.

Game day for the Bulls under 19’s proved to be a winner again this week. The under 19’s took on Warrington at Wilderspool and, ran out winners with a 12 – 49 score line. Well done lads, another win under the belts.

Sunday saw the 1st team’s fixture against the Warrington Wolves at the Halliwell Jones Stadium. Well this game was one to forget. Although we scored through Adrian Purtell, we lost the fixture 32-4. We will put this behind us and now focus on the up - coming game on Friday.

Up next, we have the (for me) one of the best game of the season – Leeds Rhino’s at home. We take on the Rhino’s at 8pm Friday night.

Leeds, who will come into this game on the back of a win, will not be easy in the slightest. It is always an exciting and tense game and this will be no different, so far we have played Leeds twice and, both times we have come up with a draw. Yes one was pre-season but, both clubs are looking for the win. For the fans it’s not just the 2 points but, bragging rights. 80 minutes of pure adrenaline filled action with big hits and points to be scored, this is one game not to miss!

The Bulls are hoping they can attract a great attendance for this game. Can we have over 25,000 inside the Provident Stadium? If they can then they will hold the Super League record, this game is the perfect advert for anyone who maybe, intrigued to attend a match so, bring along family, friends, work colleagues etc. to see one of the best games in Super League.

 

Upcoming events being held at the Provident Stadium

The Secret Garden Fashion Show Wednesday 15th May 2013

The Coral Stand will play host to an evening showcasing a huge range of fashion for men, women & children. Compared by BBC sport’s Kathryn Hannah and Hosted by T.V’s Kate Hardcastle, tickets cost just £10 or £20 V.I.P. Tickets are available from the Provident Stadium or online at www.bradfordbulls.co.uk

The 80’s strike’s back

The first concert to be held at the Provident Stadium featuring an all-star cast of some of the 80’s favourite acts. Rick Astley, Belinda Carlisle, Roland Gift, Sonia and Altered Images to name just a few will perform live on stage. Please note these acts are the artists themselves and not tribute acts.

Tickets from only £19.50 are on sale now and selling really well. To book please book via the website at www.bradfordbulls.co.uk

Please tell all fans of 80’s music young and old as, when the tickets are gone, they are gone.

 

Well that is it for this week. I would like to say a massive thank you to each and every one of you who take your time to read YOUR BULLieve.

Have a super week and, Lets pack out the Provident Stadium on Friday night!

The future is looking great so please don’t stop BULLieving.

Article written by

Jay Leeming.

Monday 22 April 2013

Bulls take the sting out of the Hornets


BULLieve

22nd April 2013

 

Hi everyone and welcome to another weekly edition of the Bradford Bulls article, BULLieve.

This week has been a great week for us with wins for the 1st team and under 19’s but, unfortunately the under 16’s squad lost.

During the week it was revealed that Jessie J was lined up to play a concert at the Provident Stadium. Unfortunately this is now not an option as she has a clause in her contract and is to be at V festival instead. Ticket sales for the 80’s concert on May 25th are selling really well and the Bulls are expecting to sell 12-15,000.

 Now confirmed, is the annual Bradford International Mela. The annual event is now going to be held this year at the Provident Stadium on Sunday 26th May 2013.

Why not come along and see what the Mela is all about? Here are a few things that will be happening on the day,

The whole pitch and surrounding area will have stands with a massive stage on the pitch with live entertainment throughout the day and evening along with a live fashion show.  Food stalls and many various other stalls will be set out with a big Fun Fair. Admission is free.

Our newest member of the board of directors Jay Willey sat down and was interviewed by Ross Heppinstall of the Bradford Telegraph and Argus. This was a personal insight into the woman who hides pain “behind the smile”.  41 year old Jay from Holmewood, is the owner of KROMA makeup eu and is a very successful business woman whilst attending the club every day to attend meetings and put new proposals to the other directors. To read this superb story please go to http://www.thetelegraphandargus.co.uk/sport/10360680.Smile_that_masks_a_painful_past__The_tragedy_behind_Willey_s_rags_to_riches_story/?ref=rss&utm_source=twitterfeed&utm_medium=twitter 

Jay is a very friendly lady and always makes time to say hi whether it be through social media or in person so, don’t be afraid to say hi. I would like to say, Jay thank you so much for taking your time and money to invest in our club here is to the rebuilding and getting back to where we belong.

The under 19’s played the Castleford Tigers this week and was looking to put last week’s defeat behind them.

This game was a close contest right up to the last whistle.

Despite early pressure from the Bulls, it was the Tigers who took the lead after six minutes with a walk in try to winger Billy Nodder after the Bulls defence had been stretched following an unforced error and a penalty.   A good break by Alex Mellor was rewarded with a try out wide to Kyle Moore but the Tigers hit back again following Bulls errors and this time Brad England forced his way over.  Danny Gregory and Todd Binns then had tries for the Bulls who, with a conversion by Adam Brook, went in 14-12 up at the break.

 

The second half was played in torrential rain and after England’s second try had given the Tigers the lead again, Prop Steve Copeland showed great strength and determination to force his way over and Brook’s conversion gave the Bulls a slender two point lead at 20-18.  That's how it stayed for the final thirteen minutes as Castleford hammed the Bulls line to no avail and after the home side were awarded a penalty, Nathan Conroy’s break was supported by Alex Mellor who scored under the posts to seal victory with the last play of the game.

Final score at the Provident Stadium, Bradford Bulls under 19’s - 26 Castleford Tigers under 19’s – 18.

Saturday was the turn of the under 16’s squad to try get a win this week. The lads were playing the Wigan Warriors. Despite the effort and determination the scholarship side showed, it wasn’t to be. Final score, Bradford 10 Wigan 48.

Sunday came round like a bolt of lightning; the 1st team was eagerly awaiting the first game of the Tetley’s challenge cup campaign. The Bulls were drawn away to Rochdale Hornets in the draw for the Tetley’s challenge cup 4th round.

Spotland was sun drenched and our fans turned up in numbers, 977 in the willbutts stand alone.

Francis Cummins had handed debuts to young winger Sam Wood and on loan forward Ben Evans.

The Bulls had fielded a strong side against the Hornets and ran out victors after a 12 try haul, 3 of which being scored by Elliot Whitehead.

Tries from Samuel Wood, Jamie Langley, Luke Gale, Chev Walker and Jarrod Sammut all of which converted ensured the bulls had a very commanding lead at half time, half time score, Hornets 6 Bulls 30.

On his debut, Sam Wood opened the Bulls account with a try on three minutes after Sammut’s kick was fumbled and Purtell got a pass away for Sam to score. The Bulls longest serving player, Jamie Langley got on the scoreboard from close range from an inside pass from Gale. Gale turned his hard work into points and then back to provider to send Chev Walker in for his try.

Rochdale did manage a score through Dave Sutton after Crooks kicked through. Jarrod Sammut was then on hand to score before half time to make the score one sided.

The second half was no different. First to score was Luke Gale for his second from close range followed by, John Bateman from a Jarrod Sammut pass.

Whitehead scored twice from the work of centre Purtell and hooker Heath L'Estrange respectively, while the Hornets gave their support something to cheer when Cookson went in after Chris Hough was held up. The Bulls then scored the last 3 tries. Sammut raced 60 metres for his second of the game whilst, Whitehead completed his hat trick and then Platt getting his name on the score sheet.

Final score at Spotland, Rochdale Hornets 10 Bradford Bulls 70, attendance, 1722.

After the match Francis had this to say,

"Rochdale showed a lot of spirit, and we weren't far away. Last week we lost our way a little bit but we were better this week. Our skill let us down for a few tries, but I was happy to see Ben Evans and Sam Wood out there, and both made their debuts and did well.”

A massive well done to both Sam and Ben, very talented youngsters will huge playing careers ahead of them. Congratulations Sam on your try, no naked run for you.

It was revealed that possible injuries sustained were Jamie Langley – Hamstring and Jamie Foster – Shoulder. We will know further about these injuries within the next few days.

The Bulls hard work in the Tetley’s challenge cup has been rewarded with a place in the next round. The Bradford Bulls will face London Bronco’s in round 5 of the Tetley’s challenge cup.

 

Up Next we take on the Warrington Wolves at the Halliwell Jones Stadium on Sunday at 3pm.

Tickets are on sale for this weekend’s away clash with Warrington Wolves. Details are as follows,

For the West Stand; Adults are £19.00 with Concessions at £13.00 (with valid I.D.)

 All Junior Season Ticket Holders MUST swap their Voucher for a Ticket before Game day. Seating Tickets are £27.50, with Concessions at £18.50. Under 5’s are free but will need a ticket. Family Tickets are available and cost £60.00 but these must be booked through the Warrington Ticket Office on 08448 111176.

 There is limited Disabled Parking and Warrington Wolves must be contacted on 08448 111176 at least 48 hours before the game.

 Coach travel is available priced £14.00 and the coach will depart the Provident Stadium at 12:30. Call in at the Ticket Office to book your seat.

3rd of May at the Provident Stadium see’s our home derby against the Leeds Rhino’s. The club is looking to break the super league attendance record. Can we fill the Provident Stadium with over 25,000 fans? Please spread the word to everyone and maybe bring along a friend who has not already been converted into a Bradford Bulls fan.

Events taking place this week.

As we are all aware, the Bulls do some fantastic charity work and, this week is no different. Heath L’Estrange, Adrian Purtell, Nick Scruton, Elliott Whitehead and Brett Kearney are taking on a 5k swimming challenge for the Marie Curie Bradford Hospice.

Please come and join us at 6pm at the Bradford University Pool to support and cheer on the players! There will be a raffle of a signed Bulls shirt and rugby ball, as well as a chance to have a picture with the sports stars.

Bradford Bulls Foundation in partnership with Bradford Bulls and Rugby League Cares are hosting a Race Night on Wednesday 24th April at 7:30 in the Coral Stand at the Provident Stadium. Players from both the Bulls and England Rugby League will be in attendance and the cost, which includes a Pie and Pea Supper, is just £3.50.

 There will be lots of opportunities to win Bulls and England RL memorabilia.

 Tickets are available from the Bulls Ticket Office.

Thursday see’s Marshall Waddington & son Fun Fair come to the Provident Stadium.

The fun fair will be held in the stadium car park with prices at just £1.50 per ride.

The fair runs from April 25th – 28th, opening times are 6pm – 9.30pm Thursday and Friday. Saturday is 1pm – 8.30pm and Sunday 1pm – 5pm. You can meet the players and Mascots on Saturday afternoon, Sunday is free face painting and meet Mickey Mouse.

New V.I.P packages are now available for the 80’s concert. Here are the details,

The Bulls have VIP Platinum Packages available for the 80's Strikes Back concert at the Provident Stadium on May 25th.

This is ideal for those who want the Full VIP Treatment. The Package includes a Three Course Meal, VIP Coral Stand Ticket, VIP Front of Stage, Golden Circle Pass and Car Parking.

To book contact the Bulls Ticket Office.

 

A couple of birthdays to mention this week, the first birthday mention, my good friend Richard Muff. Richard’s birthday is tomorrow, Happy Birthday mate have a brilliant day. Second birthday this week is a very special person who is part of my family, Kirsty Dew. Kirsty’s birthday is on Saturday 27th April. Happy Birthday Kirsty, have a brilliant day.

Thank you to every single reader and for all the support shown for YOUR weekly BULLieve. With your continued support and weekly reading BULLieve will be here each and every week.

Special mentions go out to Omar Khan, Vipin Joshi, Simon Kenny and all who Retweet each week.

 

Until next week, I hope you have a great week and look forward to travelling in numbers to the Halliwell Jones Stadium on Sunday.

Don’t stop BULLieving, COYB

2013 Year of the Bulls

 

Article written by Jay Leeming.

Monday 15 April 2013

What a week for the Bulls.


BULLieve

15TH April 2013

 

Hi everyone, a quick apology about last week’s edition. My laptop had given up the ghost so I had to repair it but, with huge thanks to Gareth Summers my laptop is now fully working.

Well, after Easter we sat pretty in 3rd     with the draw against Leeds and the great game against the London Bronco’s in which, Jarrod Sammut scored 4 tries and a personal haul of 30 points. The final score London 20 Bradford 46.

The club is now pleased to announce that fans can now purchase tickets for away games, travel and events online via http://tickets.bradfordbulls.co.uk if you have any problems in purchasing please ring the ticket office on 08448 711 490 and we will guide you through the process.

The draw for the challenge cup has come around thick and fast. Bradford who was ball number 3, have been drawn away to ball number 21, Rochdale Hornets. This game will take place on Sunday April 21st and is a 3pm kick off. Tickets are on sale now and can be purchased online at http://tickets.bradfordbulls.co.uk Coach Travel is available priced at £11. Book now to avoid disappointment as places will go fast.

The Bulls are now offering the 2013 half season ticket. For only £99 you could be standing on the terraces for the remainder of the home fixtures. This is great value for money and can be purchased online via the ticket section which is http://tickets.bradfordbulls.co.uk

It has been announced that club stalwart Jamie Langley wants to stay at Bradford. Currently the longest serving player, Langley is out of contract at the end of the season. When asked about what the future holds Langley said “I’m not sure, I have not had a chance to sit down and talk contracts. I would love to finish my career at Odsal and hopefully, we will sit down and move forward with contract talks within the next few weeks.”

 

This week both the Bulls under 19’s and first team took on the inform Wigan Warriors.

Firstly, on Thursday night at the Provident Stadium it was the turn of the under 19’s squad Kick off was at 7:30pm.

The match got off to a good start with the scores level at 6 all after 20 minutes with the bulls own Josh Casey's try and Curtis Naughton's goal. Then things just didn’t work for the youngsters. Going into the break the Warriors led 6-36. The second half was completely one sided with Wigan scoring 42 unanswered points to win the game with an impressive score line. Full time score at the Provident Stadium, Bradford 6 Wigan 78.

Friday night was the Northern Soul night. This event was a complete success and, the club is going to speak to the organizers and try holding the night again in the future. The club would like to thank everyone who attended and made the night the success that it was.

Saturday night was the Fans forum night.

The main question on everyone’s lips was, will we have a super league license next season? Well the answer is, the board has sat down and held extensive talks with the RFL on the Friday and Blake Solly will recommend to the board that the Bulls be given a full license until the end of 2014.

Another issue raised was the proposal for the club to buy the lease back from the RFL. The club has voiced their intention and this will be an on-going process.

It was announced that Jay Willey’s proposed purchase of a significant shareholding in the Bulls is in the final stages of being completed and that the proposed share issue to fans should be available within the next four weeks. The solicitors and accountants are still finalizing details.

Sky monies for the Bulls will still be at 50% for next season as set out in the takeover by Omar Khan.

The concerts in May are now cut to just the 80’s concert on Saturday 25th May and instead, there would be events on the Sunday and Bank Holiday Monday is involving local acts and including an Asian Mela.

So far only around 150 half season tickets had been sold and Omar Khan has urged supporters to back the club and take advantage of the special offer.

Francis Cummins has said that, while results this season have been disappointing for the Academy side, emphasis was firmly on producing players for the first-team. Bateman, Blythe and Foster could all be available for Sunday’s challenge cup game with Rochdale Hornets.

After the forum, Omar Khan announced that alcohol sales will go down by 50p. So now pints will be £2.50 and not £3.00.

Along came game day. It was the turn of the inform Wigan Warriors to descend on the Provident Stadium.

The Wigan fans turned up in their numbers, 25 coaches to be precise and their team did not disappoint.

Five tries in the first half helped the league leaders onto a Wigan win and the Bulls learning a lesson.

Inform second rower Liam Farrell scored a first half hat-trick along with tries for Blake Green and Jack Hughes. Pat Richards kicked all the 5 conversions and the Warriors went in at half time with a 30-0 lead. The Bulls, not helped by ref Tim Roby were disappointed and looked tired as the warrior’s pure dominance took its toll.

In the second half things looked better for the Bulls as, the Warriors score almost instantly through man of the moment, Sam Tomkins with Pat Richards once again converts.

The Bulls finally opened their account after 52 minutes when half-back Jarrod Sammut collected Gale's lofted kick to register his 14th try of the season to draw level with Tomkins and also kicked the conversion. The Bulls had believed and produced their best rugby of the match, but the uphill climb was too much and the tank running on empty saw Elliot Whitehead sin binned after the team was on a caution.

Final score at the Provident Stadium, Bradford 6 Wigan 36, and Attendance 9,899 Penalty count Bradford 8 Wigan 16.

After the match Francis Cummins had this to say,

“Unfortunately we couldn’t get the performance but there is still a good feeling around the place. All credit to Wigan – they got some repeat sets and we came up with some yardage errors. When you give all that field position to Wigan, they are very ruthless.

 It was going to be tough from there and we had a handful of people out there who were quite flat, although I don’t think it was a problem getting up for the game.

 I’ve said this before but we probably showed bits of naivety in our play in that Wigan are probably four years down the line from where we are.

 They are quite ruthless in what they do. You could say it’s mechanical but it’s very effective and their discipline is very good.”

The feeling in and around the club is still one of excitement and anticipation. The club and team are well ahead of all previous expectations and can only continue to get better day by day. To see near on 10,000 fans in the Provident Stadium is great but, the club would like to see a few more fans through the gates.

Clearing up an issue.

The club recently had a complaint sent to them regarding myself. To clear things up please read my statement.

Like all people in life I have a past, it is not something I am not proud of but it has happened. My past in no way affects the club or anybody else. I have done what I have done, served my time and now become a far better person than I ever was and sorted myself out. Life is very good and that good, me and my partner are planning on getting married next year.

Also some readers/fans think I am in a paid position at the club, this is not true. All work I do for and with the club including this article is on a voluntary basis. I am just a normal passionate fan like everyone else. My past should not have a bearing on the article as; this article is for you the fans and does not reflect me or my past. My past is my past and will never stop my passion for the club I love nor will it hinder me in the future trying to help take the club forward.

Well that is it for this week’s edition of BULLieve. I hope that you will continue to read BULLieve each and every week, keeping you informed of all things Bradford Bulls.

Special thanks go out to the Board of Directors and Gareth Summers who, without these people the article wouldn’t be what it is today, Thank you all.

Until next week, don’t stop BULLiving and please share this article with friends, family and all other Bulls fans.

Have a great week.

 

Article written by Jay Leeming

Tuesday 2 April 2013

Bulls Happy Easter.




BULLieve

 2nd April 2013

 

Welcome to another edition of your Bradford Bulls weekly article, BULLieve.

What a very busy Easter period we have had. This week was the OK Bulls Derby Days. It all kicked off with our under 19’s taking on the Leeds Rhino’s under 19’s at Stanningley.

The Bulls had the dream start when they found themselves 10-0 up thanks to tries from Nathan Conroy and Alex Mellor with fit again Curtis Naughton converting Conroy’s try. Leeds hit back with a score of their own but a further try from Jarrow ward put the Bulls 14-6 up. Leeds then hit back to score 2 more tries and lead 18-14 going into the break. The second half was underway and despite some great play and effort, the Bulls just could not score. Leeds Scored 2 more unanswered tries to give them the winning score. Full time score, Leeds Rhino’s 28 Bradford Bulls 14.

With Leeds being the league leaders, the lads should be very proud of the effort they put in. Unlucky lads but don’t let the result get you down. Focus on the next game and let’s try get the win.

Well, the weather has hit us hard again this week and the club asked for volunteers for our home game against the Salford City Reds. The volunteers did a great job and Mr Khan himself has personally asked me to thank every single person who has given up their time to help.  Mr Khan even got himself dirty along with Gerry Sutcliffe and got on the pitch to help clear the snow and ice with the other volunteers.

We as a club are very grateful for all help on both Friday and Sunday to try and ensure the home game against the Salford City Reds could go ahead.

 

It was finally the 1st team squad’s OK Bulls Derby day.

The build-up and atmosphere in and around Headingley was electric. This derby day seemed to be more exciting than previous ones. The fans were ready, the team was ready.

The Bulls were up against it right from the off, as Leeds won the ball from the kick off and Kallum Watkins ghosted in down the right edge, with just 24 seconds on the clock. Kevin Sinfield converted to make it 6-0. Joel Moon and Ryan Hall teamed up and seemed to have scored yet the video ref chalked it off due to a push in the back on the Bulls.

Despite relentless pressure on the Bulls line, they held strong and then countered with one of the tries of the season. Foster was the architect-in-chief, with the former Saints wingman involved twice in a move which went from right to left and then back again, as eventually Elliot Whitehead’s spectacular offload saw Adrian Purtell score for the first time since the Bulls Challenge Cup defeat to Warrington last year. Foster converted to bring the score level at 6-6.

Tom Olbison took advantage of some great pressure from the bulls to score just left of the rhino’s posts. Foster yet again converted to now put the Bulls in front 12-6. Not long after that, Danny Addy went over to what we all thought was a try but, replays showed he had lost control whilst trying to ground the ball. Score remained 12-6.

The Bulls onslaught petered out and the Rhinos got themselves back level when, on the back of a penalty, Mitch Achurch just managed to slide his way over the line, with Sinfield converting, which was the way the relentless first half ended. Half time, Leeds Rhino’s 12 Bradford Bulls 12.

After the break the bulls were on the end of a series of penalties and the toll of this put ex Bull Jamie Peacock in to score. Sinfield once again converted to put the Rhino’s 18 – 12 up.

The final 10 minutes were nail biting and edge of the seat stuff. Firstly there was a mass brawl sparked by a spear tackle from Elliot Whitehead on Jamie Jones-Buchanan. Phil Bentham saw fit to give Whitehead a warning. A head clash between Ryan Bailey and Nick Scruton then saw the Bulls prop knocked out cold for a moment and the late dismissal of Peacock saw Sidlow find a gap in the defence to end the classic contest with a draw after Foster kicked over the simple two to the elation of the Western terrace.

Final score Leeds Rhino’s 18 Bradford Bulls 18.

It truly was a superb game of rugby and a great advert for our brilliant game. The result was fair and both teams deserved to share the points.

It was superb to see Adrian Purtell back on the pitch and scoring after his long term absence. Well done Adrian.

Friday saw the Real Ale day in the coral stand. This event was a success and proved to be quite popular with real ale fans flocking to get a taste of the real ales.

Saturday night saw the much eagerly anticipated, Ultimate Adele Tribute Act.

Boy did this night not disappoint. The Coral Stand was packed with people taking advantage of the event. There was singing and dancing from the fans and also it was my mate, Mathew ward’s 19th Birthday which he chose this event especially to celebrate.

Sunday was the Easter Eggstravaganza event in the Coral Stand. Entry was free and was held from 12 noon to 4pm. This event was very popular with families turning up to enjoy the fun filled afternoon and meeting Bull Boy.

 

Monday arrived with fans anxious to know if the game would be played. At 10am a pitch inspection took place and, Referee Tim Roby decided that the game could go ahead.

With the pitch looking rough with sand, and the crowd in full voice kick off arrived.

Keith Lulia fumbled the ball with the line begging within the first few minutes but, the Bulls weren’t going to let that stop them.

The outstanding Jarrod Sammut stabbed the ball through the Salford defence to send John Bateman in for the opening score. Foster converted to make it 6-0.

It wasn’t long before the visitors levelled the score line. Theo Fages’ 40-20 attempt was just kept in play by Kearney, but at a cost, as the Bulls fullback lost his footing and Lee Gaskell took full advantage, racing in at the corner, with Sneyd converting from the touchline.

The Bulls were now on form. Jarrod Sammut scored one of his two tries from a great combination from Lulia and Foster. Once again Foster converted to make it 12-6.

Brett Kearney then found Adrian Purtell to score his second try in as many games after a line break from Elliot Kear. Foster spot on with the boot again. 18-6. only moments later Adam Sidlow burst through his clubs defence and charged to the corner where, he found Brett Kearney who scored the Bull’s 4th try of the afternoon and his 10th of the season.  On form Foster converted to make a favourable score line at half time 24-6.

After the break things didn’t seem to go to plan.

Salford scored after 10 minutes through Jack Murphy after applying a lot of pressure on the Bulls. Sneyd booted over the extras again and Foster was then taken off injured.

The tide was turning and not long after, former Bull Chris Nero scored for the visitors. Once again the try was converted and now the score line was 24-18. Then a big sigh of relief was felt around the Provident Stadium as, Danny Addy found Jamie Langley who through brute strength found the try line. Talking over kicking duties, Sammut added the conversion to make the score 30-18.

A moment of magic from Fages suddenly gave Salford some hope as Andrew Dixon scored and Sneyd added the extra’s from a very easy conversion attempt. The game was hanging in the balance as only 6 points separated the sides.

Sammut added 2 more points from a penalty to widen the gap to 8 points. The Bulls then put the game to bed when an outstanding offload from Langley saw Sammut over to cap off his fine individual performance and the win.

Final score, Bradford Bulls 36 – Salford City Reds 24. Attendance 7,503.

Congratulations to Elliot Whitehead on his 100th appearance for the Bulls.

Up next, we have the London Bronco’s. Please note the venue and day has been changed.

The fixture and venue is now, Saturday April 6th and will be played at Adams Park, High Wycombe at 3.00pm. Coach travel is available from the club and is priced at £28. Please ring the ticket office to book.

Well as some of you know, our very own Jamie Langley is venturing into the business world. Along with Wayne Godwin and Duane Straugheir they have made a brand known as We Are Taurus. Players and fans alike are already sporting the brand with T-shirts, hooded tops and vests proving popular.

The We Are Taurus brand is now available and the website is to be launched on Saturday the 6th April.  We Are Taurus will be offering personal training, Schools coaching and sports massage along with a clothing line. For more information please check out the website which is www.wearetaurus.co.uk

 

Events at the Provident Stadium.

Friday 12th April

The Coral stand will be the host for the Northern Soul Night. There will be an Evening of Northern Soul, Mod and Ska in the Coral Stand at the Provident Stadium.

 There will be live music from Top Band True Brit and a DJ will be playing until 1.00am

 The event starts at 7.30 and the cost is just £6.00.

For further details on True Brit log onto their website:


 

Saturday 13th April

Fans Forum

There is to be a Fans forum held in the coral stand at 7pm.

Omar Khan and Gerry Sutcliffe will be answering your questions and informing fans of what is going on at the club.

 

Wednesday 15th May

 The Secret Garden Fashion Show

Our very own Kate Hardcastle is hosting a fashion event in the coral stand showcasing men’s, women’s and children’s fashion lines. There will be stalls and some retail surprises also.

Tickets are priced at £10 or £20 VIP. Tickets are available from the Bulls ticket office or online at www.bradfordbulls.co.uk

 

Saturday 25th May

The 80’s Strike Back

The first concert to be held at the Provident Stadium.

The Line-up for the night is Rick Astley, Belinda Carlisle, The Real Thing, Roland Gift, Go West Altered Images and all are backed by the amazing Rewind Allstar Band.

Tickets are available from only £19.50 per person.

Tickets are selling fast so to be sure of your ticket, Order online via the Bulls website


Well for another week, that is it. Thank you to everyone who takes there time to read BULLieve.

Next week BULLieve will be back to its usual slot of 8pm Monday. So until then, Have a great week and don’t stop BULLieving.

 

Article written by Jay Leeming.