BRETT KEARNEY is targeting a return to action next Friday when Bradford Bulls battle Hull Kingston Rovers at the Provident Stadium, insisting consistency will prove key in his side's quest for Super League survival.
The 30-year-old Australian, who sustained a fractured thumb in the Bulls' 34-28 victory over Warrington Wolves, last month, believes injuries have hindered Francis Cummins' side in 2014.
Kearney has been left frustrated by his stint on the sidelines but is hopeful of kicking on in the weeks and months ahead.
“Injuries are part and parcel of the game but it has been strange for me, with my injury record bring relatively good,” said Kearney, who is being proudly sponsored by Advanced Solutions Yorkshire.
“It has been difficult watching the boys and not being able to contribute on the field but Francis (Cummins) and Lee (St Hilaire) have kept me involved. They have had me doing things on gameday as well as using my experience to help the younger guys in training.
“Injuries at the start of the season have made things difficult for us. The best teams have a consistent group, which knows how one another works.
“It helps with combinations but, given our injury problems this year, we have had to make so many changes and it has made for a difficult season.
“However, we are nearing full fitness as a squad and realise we need to start performing – and picking up wins.
“We need to regain our confidence, starting this Sunday. We believe, if we can notch up a couple of victories on the bounce then we can move towards safety.”
Bradford face Salford in round sixteen of First:Utility Super League this weekend, with Cummins' men looking to avenge the 38-24 defeat suffered at the hands of the Red Devils back in April.
Having overcome Wakefield Trinity Wildcats at the start of the month, the Bulls go in search of a second-straight league win this Sunday (kick-off 3.00pm).
“We have to take the positives out of recent happenings and push forward as a team and as a club,” added Kearney, who arrived at the Provident Stadium in 2010.
“We need to win and perform, for sure, but we need to actually do it and to it consistently.
“Winning at least half of our remaining games is essential and we know that.
“But I believe in the group of players I am a part of and am confident we can overcome the odds and secure our Super League status, heading into 2015.”
Tickets for Sunday's trip to the AJ Bell Stadium are priced at £18 (adults), £13 (concessions) and £8 (juniors).
You can secure your place by calling 08448 711 490 TODAY!
