Bradford Bulls delivered a spectacular first‑half performance, crossing the try line five times before halftime to break a disheartening seven‑match losing run, ultimately securing a 32‑22 win against the Castleford Tigers. The Bulls had been languishing at the very bottom of the Betfred Super League standings, unable to taste victory since a defeat on July 10.
The tide began to turn early in the match when they surged ahead 18‑0 within the first 19 minutes, thanks to quick scores from Riley Dean, Connor Wynne and Caleb Aekins. Those opening points set the tone for what would become a dominant display.
Before the break, Dan Russell and Waqa Blake each added a try, extending the lead and giving Bradford a comfortable cushion. Castleford managed to claw back a few points, but the Bulls’ momentum was relentless.
In the 52nd minute, Ebon Scurr crossed for his sixth try of the game, reinforcing Bradford’s determination to avoid the dreaded wooden spoon as they approached the final round of the season, where they will face 13th‑placed York. Head coach Kurt Haggerty disclosed that the squad had spent the week discussing the uncomfortable prospect of finishing at the very bottom of the table. That conversation seemed to ignite a spark among the players.
Riley Dean, for instance, demonstrated his speed and composure by diving over under the posts just five minutes into the match. Eight minutes later, Connor Wynne followed with a corner try, and shortly thereafter Caleb Aekins completed the early trio of scores. Although Castleford’s Louis Senior managed to get the Tigers on the board, Bradford responded emphatically before the halftime whistle. In the 34th minute, Chris Atkin delivered a precise pass to Dan Russell, who dived over for another try, and moments later Waqa Blake beat the clock with his own effort, sending the scoreboard to 26‑4 in favor of the Bulls.
The half‑time advantage was substantial, but Castleford showed signs of life in the second period. Krystian Mapapalangi capitalised on a well‑timed grubber kick, narrowing the gap and giving the Tigers a glimmer of hope.
Nevertheless, Bradford’s Ebon Scurr, operating close to the try line, powered over for his sixth effort, delighting the Odsal Stadium crowd and extending the lead once more. Chris Atkin added a fourth conversion, further cementing the Bulls’ dominance. Castleford managed to secure consolation points through tries from Alex Mellor and a second effort by Mapapalangi, but those scores were insufficient to overturn the deficit. The Bulls maintained their composure and saw out the match, achieving their first home victory in three months.
With this win, the bottom‑placed Bulls have drawn level on 14 league points with York, Huddersfield Giants and Hull FC. All three of those clubs still have fixtures this weekend before the regular Super League season concludes next week, meaning the final league positions remain very much up for grabs.
The match was part of Sky Sports' comprehensive coverage of the Super League season, which includes live broadcasts of every game. Two matches per round are shown exclusively live on Sky Sports, while the remaining five fixtures are available via Sky Sports+. This extensive coverage ensures fans can follow the drama of the league from start to finish, including pivotal encounters such as Bradford’s resurgence against Castleford.