Jamie Langley featured for Bradford Bulls in some of the biggest and best derby matches against Leeds Rhinos. Now, he will return to Odsal repping Blue and Amber.
From Grand Finals to Challenge Cup Finals against Leeds, Langley was a stalwart of the brilliant Bradford side of the 2000’s and knows exactly what this rivalry means to both the respective clubs and their fanbases.
Ahead of the first Super League meeting between Leeds and Bradford in 12 years, the Rhinos assistant boss has recalled some of the classic derby matches of yesteryear, and spoke on how important it is for the sport to have such an iconic rivalry back in the top flight.
“Looking back, they were just terrific games,” he said to the Super League website. “The rivalry was intense, every match between us was huge, so much went on.
“They [Leeds] knocked us off in 2004 in the Grand Final but we returned the favour a year later. Those were big games. I think in 2003, though, we played Leeds five times.
“We played them in the Challenge Cup final and a play-off qualifying semi-final to get to Old Trafford. I remember they came to Odsal once that year and they turned up already strapped up and kitted out on the bus!
“They were just trying to find different methodologies and ways of turning up to beat us because I think we had their number around that time: we won all five games against them that season.”
“…There were some unbelievable games with Leeds; the atmospheres were unmatched in my opinion.
“At that time, I do think it was the biggest derby around. There were games down at Odsal where we had 24,000-25,000, absolutely packed to the rafters.
“Maybe one day we’ll get back to that. But, mainly, it’s just great to see Bradford back in Super League again. And they’re going well.”
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Given the heat between the two sides, Langley is unsure what kind of welcome he will receive on Good Friday – however he just hopes the game lives up to the hype, with fans waiting well over a decade to see the latest chapter in the rivalry unfold.
“I don’t know. I’ve not even thought about it to be honest,” said Langley. “You don’t tend to think about it that way.
“Regardless of what colours I’m wearing, I’m there to do a job as a coach and do the best job I can for the boys.
“I have been back to Odsal a couple of times since, whether it be when I was coaching the academy down in London or just going to watch a couple of games.
“I don’t think too much of it. There’ll be loads of familiar faces there obviously. It’ll be great to catch up with them and say hello.
“But, ultimately, we’re there to do a job and it’ll be all business come kick-off time.”
