The curtain fell on our pre-season journey with a 46-16 loss to Leeds Rhinos in Cameron Smith’s testimonial match today, but it wasn’t without its silver linings. Here’s the kicker: while the scoreboard told one story, the real win was the invaluable game time our players gained ahead of the 2026 Super League season. And this is the part most people miss—pre-season isn’t just about results; it’s about preparation, and today was a crucial step in that direction.
The game kicked off with a defensive battle, both sides locking horns in a gritty, scoreless first quarter. But here’s where it gets interesting: Leeds finally broke through on the 21-minute mark when Jake Connor’s high, looping kick was batted backward, landing in the hands of Ash Handley, who dotted down in the left corner. Not to be outdone, Bradford’s Joe Keyes struck back immediately, slicing through the Rhinos’ defense and sprinting 40 meters to level the score. A real back-and-forth moment that set the tone for the match.
Connor’s influence was undeniable again at the 33-minute mark, his clever chip collected by Handley for his second try. Ethan O’Neill then powered over from close range to extend Leeds’ lead just before halftime. But wait—with seconds ticking away, Ethan Ryan reminded everyone of his class with a jaw-dropping acrobatic finish in the corner, narrowing the gap.
The second half started with a bang for Leeds, Connor’s flick pass sending Croft over the line. Yet, Bradford refused to fold, and Ryan bagged his second try with another gravity-defying effort in the corner. Croft wasn’t done either, securing his brace with a neat grubber kick from Lachlan Miller. And this is where it gets controversial: Croft’s hat-trick minutes later, a show-and-go under the posts, left some wondering if Bradford’s defense could have done more. What do you think—was it brilliance from Croft or a missed tackle?
In the final stretch, Cameron Smith capped off his testimonial with a try, converting four into six points. The game’s last act saw Presley Cassell cross the line for Leeds, sealing the deal. But here’s the real question: as we head into the Super League season, which of these moments will prove most pivotal for both teams? Let us know in the comments—we’d love to hear your take!
BRADFORD BULLS LINEUP: Luke Hooley, Jayden Okunbor, Connor Wynne, Waqa Blake, Ethan Ryan, Jayden Nikorima, Joe Keyes, Loghan Lewis, Mitch Souter, Eribe Doro, Dan Russell, Leon Ruan, Eliot Peposhi. INTERCHANGES: Caleb Aekins, Jamie Gill, Ronan Michael, Sam Hallas, Brandon Douglas, Esan Marsters.
TRIES: Ryan (2), Keyes
GOALS: Hooley 2/2, Okunbor 0/1
