John Kear proud of Bradford performance despite Featherstone defeat

Josh McAllister
John Kear

Bradford Bulls head coach John Kear was proud of his side’s performance against Featherstone despite their 32-18 defeat at Odsal Stadium. 

The hosts opened the scoring early through full-back Elliot Hall, before Featherstone took the lead at the break through a brace from Ben Hellewell live on Premier Sports.

Brian McDermott’s side scored a further 20 points in the second half, including a hat-trick from half-back Ryley Jacks, to return to the top of the Championship table.

Bradford crossed two more times in the second half through David Foggin-Johnston and AJ Wallace, but Rovers were too strong in the end.

Despite the scoreline, Kear said he was pleased with his team’s effort against a strong outfit in the unbeaten Featherstone.

Match report: Ryley Jacks scores hat-trick to take Featherstone back to the top

John Kear proud of Bradford performance

“I thought our effort was first class,” Kear said on Premier Sports.

“That’s what we didn’t want to be found wanting with was getting out there and putting it all on the line and I think that they did.

“I think other areas we can improve upon, but we’ve been beaten by a very good side. But we’ve given a really good account of ourselves.

“They got us in the middle and they started offloading and the game’s speed got too much for us. I thought Matty Wildie did a great job jumping out of dummy-half and tying our markers up and getting behind the ruck. There’s little areas like that (to improve on), but all in all, I’m pretty pleased.”

Bradford to look to the market

The Bradford boss confirmed an injury blow to Aaron Murphy, who left the field early in the first half. Kear, 67, says he may look to the market to help with injuries.

“We’ve lost Aaron Murphy with a knee injury,” Kear added. “The initial prognosis is that it will be four-to-six weeks.

“At the minute, we’ve got 17 players plus young Sam Walters from Leeds for this week. We’ll certainly be looking around at the loan market.

“But, hopefully as well, we’ll be getting a few players back. Ebon Scurr should be back for next week against Whitehaven.

“I think you’ve always got to be on the look out.”

Next up on Premier Sports, Barrow Raiders host York City Knights on Monday, May 2.

READ MORE: Brian McDermott confirms Featherstone’s interest in Zak Hardaker

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