Bulls fan Halafihi pens Bradford deal

Bradford have signed hooker Vila Halafihi from Penrith Panthers on a one-year deal.

Halafihi, 20, is a former Leeds academy player and has spent the past 12 months Down Under.

He said: “I am a massive Bradford Bulls fan, so feel absolutely privileged to have signed for such a great club.

“Bradford was the first team I ever supported and I want to play a part in helping return the club to its former glory.

“Joining the Bulls is a huge opportunity for me – one which I was quick to grasp.

“From the minute the club approached me, I have been getting excited about the prospect of working with James Lowes again.”

Hull-born, Halafihi is the son of former Hull KR, Sheffield and London forward Nick.

Coach James Lowes, who worked with Halafihi during his time at Headingley, said: “We have some very talented hookers already on board and I expect Vila to only add to what they bring to the team.

“Vila has a great understanding of the game. He comes with an impressive pedigree for someone of his age and, I believe, has the ability to go far.

“Vila knows his way to the line and, from my time with him at Leeds, I know he has all of the right ingredients.”