Bradford Bulls showcased their attacking prowess and resilience as they stormed to a remarkable 42-18 triumph against local rivals Keighley Cougars at the Summer Bash yesterday. The Bulls, who had trailed early on, staged an impressive comeback, scoring an unanswered 34 points to secure a resounding victory.
The Cougars initially got off to a flying start when Ben Crooks breached the Bulls’ defence inside the opening minute. The home team extended their advantage when Alix Stephenson capitalised on a loose ball, putting Keighley in a promising position.
However, the Bulls swiftly shifted the momentum in their favour. Ben Blackmore exhibited brilliance in the corner, finishing off a remarkable move before the familiar combination of Dec Patton and Ethan Gill worked its magic on the left side.
Against the run of play, the Cougars managed to re-establish their two-score lead with a slick move on the left edge, resulting in Crooks crossing the try line for the second time.
Bradford, determined to claw their way back into the game before halftime, successfully reduced the deficit. Blackmore turned provider, setting up Jack Walker for his first try of the match.
The second half proved to be completely one-sided, with the Bulls dominating proceedings. Walker once again found the try line, securing his second try of the game and propelling the Bulls into the lead for the first time that afternoon.
Dec Patton and Gill continued to wreak havoc, combining effectively to extend Bradford’s advantage. Gill’s second try of the afternoon marked his tenth of the season, capping off an impressive individual performance.
The Bulls continued to rampage through their opponents’ defence. Tom Holmes produced a sensational break, racing halfway up the field, before Keven Appo bulldozed his way past several Keighley defenders to score in front of the ecstatic red, amber, and black supporters.
DFJ (Dion Foxx Johnson) also got in on the action, benefiting from a well-executed set play originating from the base of a scrum. Quick hands on the left edge fed the winger, allowing him to notch his third try in the last two matches.
The icing on the cake came in the form of Ben Blackmore’s second try. Holmes displayed his exceptional passing skills, delivering a precision bullet pass out wide to Blackmore, who effortlessly strolled over the try line. As a result of his outstanding performance, Blackmore was deservedly awarded the title of Our League’s Man of the Match.
The Bulls’ emphatic victory over the Cougars leaves them with a renewed sense of confidence and further solidifies their position as a force to be reckoned with in the league. Their ability to mount a comeback and their exceptional attacking display will undoubtedly serve as a source of inspiration for the team moving forward.
