Bradford Bulls hand new deal to former Warrington Wolves halfback

Bradford Bulls have given a new deal to former Warrington Wolves halfback Dec Patton.

The halfback, who joined from Super League outfit Salford Red Devils, registered 18 points for the Bulls in the club’s victory over Dewsbury Rams.

Patton joins fellow half-back Jordan Lilley in signing until the end of next season – with the club acting fast to tie down a key player.

Patton was so happy to sign on the dotted line.

“I am over the moon to have signed, I know it has only been a short time but the way pre-season has gone and the fact we went pretty well in our fits game we can start building,” said Patton.

“[On being happy and settled] That’s a big thing, I have fallen back in love with the game with the set of lads we have here I am enjoying my rugby and enjoying training so it was a no brainer.

“The lads we have here it is not hard to settle at all they are a good bunch with John and Mark Dunning who have made it very easy for me.

“The number one goal is playing well week in, week out and hopefully push for top spot and promotion and for myself I have been trying to help the team but I need to work on myself more and help the team that way.

“We have a lot to work on which is a good thing as our standards have been set a lot higher so putting points on a team like that and not being that happy is a good thing.

“We had eight first teamers not playing and we stressed it is about the squad not the 17 – it is pretty exciting because I think we have so many more levels to go up.

“It was the first game, you don’t come out firing but if we can continue putting points on and putting our foot on the throats we’ll come out good.

Bradford boss John Kear admits he is ‘over the moon’ – hailing the impression Patton has made on everyone at the club and highlights the stability it now brings.

“I am absolutely delighted, Dec has come in and made a big impression upon everyone – he has impressed staff and players and what he is doing, is enjoying rugby league again,” said Kear.

“When you do get that feeling it is often a good idea to stay and enjoy the ride, that’s what he’s decided to do and I couldn’t be happier.

“His agent has been very good Iestyn Harris, he has conversed with me regularly and Dec has been really good too and we are absolutely over the moon we have him for this year and the whole of next year.

“We now have two half backs signed for next year in Jordan Lilley and Dec Patton and that is an element of stability we have to enjoy and take going forward – it is something I am particularly pleased with and I am delighted the club staff have acted in such a manner.”