Nothing changes for Bradford Bulls this week, with Magic Weekend being just two competition points despite the huge occasion.
Bradford set foot on their first Magic Weekend since 2014 as they take on Leeds Rhinos on Sunday.
One of Super League’s biggest rivalries will take on its next chapter, with the Leeds-Bradford derby providing one of those most memorable, yet controversial, moments in the event’s history – Jordan Tansey scoring from Kevin Sinfield’s missed penalty goal.
The fixture, and the occasion, is rich in history, but for Kurt Haggerty and his side, they are simply focusing on getting the two points.
“I’ve been involved in a couple [Magic events] now,” the Bradford boss said at a press event today.
“They’re great occasions, having all the fans in one place, and for us, the Bulls being back in Super League and playing our neighbours in a derby, it’s a huge occasion. We’re really looking forward to it, and it’s good for some of our boys to be on a big stage.
Everton’s Hill Dickinson Stadium will be the host, as the stadium hosts the event for the first time. Haggerty and his staff will embark on a scouting mission earlier in the week before arriving with the team on Sunday.
“It’s a big day for the club,” the boss added. “I hope there’s loads of Bulls fans that come down and celebrate and enjoy the day and come and watch us perform and have a crack like we do every week.
“…I‘m actually going over on Thursday with some of the staff, so I’m going to have a look at the pitch.”
Playing down expectations, Haggerty added: “It’s not a Grand Final, it’s not a Challenge Cup, it’s just another game, just another stadium. We’ll build it up as no bigger than the usual Super League game, just in a different place.”
Bradford Bulls boss previews Leeds Rhinos derby
Bradford could be without up to three forwards this week, with one being Will Gardiner, who was stretchered off the field against St Helens.
Also sidelined were Phoenix Steinwede and Dan Russell, who were both casualties on Saturday.
There is no update on either player just yet, and to make matters worse, there isn’t any bodies set for a return just yet.
“I don’t think we’ve got anybody due back for at least maybe another two to four weeks,” Haggerty revealed.
Commenting on Leeds, who sit top of the league, Bradford are expecting one of their toughest challenges of the season so far.
“They’re physical, talented. They‘ve got some fantastic personnel. They play a fantastic brand of rugby, but can back it up with D.”
