Imagine a team rising from the ashes of relegation, liquidation, and reconstruction, only to step back onto the pitch like they’d never left. That’s exactly what Bradford Bulls did in their thrilling 27-20 clash against Hull FC in the Super League. But here’s where it gets controversial: Was this a story of resilience or a missed opportunity for Hull? Let’s dive in.
Bradford’s journey since their last Super League try in September 2014 has been nothing short of tumultuous. Yet, in this match, they seemed to pick up right where they left off. Fijian international Waqa Blake wasted no time, bursting through Hull’s defense in just six minutes to score the opening try. It was a moment that screamed, ‘We’re back.’
Hull FC, however, weren’t about to roll over. And this is the part most people miss: The brilliance of Pryce, whose moment of magic—a grubber kick under pressure—set up Joe Batchelor to level the score 10 minutes later. But Bradford’s ex-Hull FC back, Connor Wynne, quickly reminded everyone why he’s a force to be reckoned with, putting the Bulls back in front.
The first half was a rollercoaster. Harvey Barron’s try, aided by Pryce’s pinpoint kicking, gave Hull a 12-10 lead. Yet, Bradford’s Davy Litten exploited weak tackles on the left wing to make it 18-10 at halftime. Bold statement: Hull’s defense looked uncharacteristically shaky—a point that’s sure to spark debate among fans.
If Hull thought Bradford would tire in the second half, they were sorely mistaken. Rowan Milnes’ converted penalty goals, including one after a high tackle from Aidan Sezer, put the Bulls ahead 20-18 by the 61st minute. But Hull’s resilience shone as Pryce leveled the score again with 10 minutes left, showcasing his clutch ability.
Here’s where it gets even more intriguing: Bradford had a golden opportunity after a goal-line dropout, but a knock-on derailed their momentum. Hull seized the moment, with Sezer and Pryce combining for a 30-metre kick that gave them a 21-20 lead with just three minutes left. Cust’s late try added gloss to the scoreline, but the real question remains: Could Bradford have held on?
Controversial thought: Was this a testament to Hull’s experience or a reflection of Bradford’s inexperience in high-pressure moments? Let’s hear your thoughts in the comments.
Hull FC Lineup: Pryce; Barron, Hardaker, Litten, Martin; Kemp, Sezer; Knight, Bourouh, Hill, Batchelor, Romano, Aydin. Interchanges: Cust, Fash, Lisone, Sao.
Bradford Lineup: Aekins; Okunbor, Marsters, Blake, Wynne; Keyes, Milnes; Sutton, Ackers, Lewis, Russell, Fulton, Mellor. Interchanges: Souter Scurr, Doro, Chamberlain. Referee: Marcus Griffiths.
This match wasn’t just a game—it was a battle of wills, strategy, and heart. What did you think? Was Hull’s win deserved, or did Bradford let it slip away? Share your take below!
