Lynch storms through - Picture supplied By Bradford Bulls
Another unsuccessful play-off campaign has ended Bradford’s season, meaning a third consecutive year without a trophy. A repeat of last year’s tie against Wigan, this time on the neutral ground of Widnes’ Stobart Stadium, again produced a Warriors victory on 12th September.
Hopes were high following back-to-back victories over Hull KR and Castleford in the final games of the regular season, and the news that the match must be played at a neutral venue due to Wigan Athletic’s commitments must have been music to Steve McNamara’s ears. The aggrieved Warriors fans had other plans, however, as a plethora of supporters made the short journey to Widnes and turned the ground into a red and white cauldron.
Bulls started brightly, with Paul Deacon in excellent form. The Bradford captain put the visitors 2-0 ahead with a penalty, before launching a high kick for Chris Nero to touch down, only for the try to be disallowed for a knock-on. The hard work ultimately paid off, however, as the impressive Andy Lynch powered though Harrison Hansen to cross the Wigan line. Deacon added the extras, and the Bulls led 8-0 after 30 minutes, but it was to be their only taste of being in the ascendancy.