YOUNG BULLS IN TOUGH OPENING ROUND DEFEAT

BRADFORD Bulls’ Academy outfit fell to defeat in their first outing of the season – losing 44-10 despite an impressive first-half showing at Emerald Headingley Stadium.

The hosts raced into a two-score lead before Will Adams and Harry Shackleton tries got Leigh Beattie’s side back in the contest. 

A tough second-half saw Chev Walker’s Rhinos seal the spoils however, despite the best efforts of a youthful Bradford outfit.

Leeds went into the clash having featured in four games prior to Saturday, while our Academy’s start to the season was disrupted due to the inclement weather conditions.

A fast start saw Leeds go into an early lead, utilising their superior fitness and experience to stun the visitors.

Bradford hit back however, Taylor Mail and Lewis Camden combining to send Will Adams over.

The home side restored their advantage before Shackleton’s stunning individual effort – stepping and dancing his way past three Leeds defenders to reduce the arrears.

The Young Bulls tired in a tough second-half period that saw Leeds stretch their lead but head coach Beattie can take positives from the first-half display.

BRADFORD BULLS: Lewis Camden, Jayden Myers, Will Adams, Kieran Brining, Daniel McGrath, Harry Shackleton, Taylor Mail, Ciaran Dickinson, Jaden Barraclough, Marcus Green, Sam Arundel, Isaac Coleman, Reece Ripley. INTERCHANGES: Alex Handol, Oliver Scott, Rafael Dias, Aaron Brook.   

TRIES: Adams, Shackleton

GOALS: Shackleton 1/2