‘When the Yorkshire Derby was real biff’ – ex-Leeds Rhinos prop Ryan Bailey opens up on the past

Ryan Bailey earned a reputation for being one of the most divisive characters in rugby league since the conception of Super League in 1996.

The rampaging prop made over 300 appearances for the Leeds Rhinos between 2002 and 2014 after debuting in the former year aged just 18.

One of the most decorated winners ever in Super League history, Bailey can count six Super League Grand Final successes, one Challenge Cup victory and three World Club Challenge triumphs in his time at Leeds.

The 38-year-old also had spells with the likes of Leigh Centurions, Castleford Tigers and Warrington Wolves after departing the Rhinos at the end of his first Challenge Cup success in 2014.

And, now Bailey has spoken about his battles with local rivals Bradford Bulls over the years.

Of course, the Bulls were relegated at the end of the same year that Bailey left Leeds and Bradford have never returned to Super League since – though they are rebuilding greatly under current boss John Kear.

However, Bailey has thrown it back with a nostalgic post about those clashes between the two West Yorkshire sides which often resulted in some of the greatest games throughout the summer era.

Bailey said: “@officialbullsrl vs @leedsrhinos When the Yorkshire Derby was real Biff !!! gave everything on the pitch put our bodies on the line with full respect after the game. #shouldercharge #realbiff #bullsvsrhinos #yorkshirederby #throwbackthursday”

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