Jamie Peacock's doctor is a rugby union man.

Which meant the inspirational second rower, ruled out with a broken hand until May 3 (that's next Saturday), had to admit to him that he played through the semi-final against Wigan.

The doc, who hadn't seen the game, just laughed at the resilience of rugby players and knew that Peacock was going to turn out again in the final.

"I suppose normal people would have been out for longer," admitted Peacock, who was the Lance Todd Trophy winner in all but name with a superb performance on the Millennium Stadium pitch.

"But it is my job to heal. I am a quick healer and there was nothing going to stop me missing out on this."

And Peacock, who needed seven stitches in his knee after the game, is now happy to admit that the broken hand suffered against Hunslet in the cup fifth round was the best thing that could have happened to him.

"I think it was a blessing in disguise," said Peacock, who has played just twice since that March 2 drubbing of the National League Two side.

"I have never really had a break from rugby in the last three years and this was like my own personal pre-season.

"I have come back hungrier than I have been for a while. I've got that buzz back and am feeling fitter and stronger than ever.

"Which is a good thing because it was pretty tough that last few minutes. I really don't know how we survived."

But survive they did, something that has made 'JP' a very happy man.

"I'm chuffed, I really am," he continued. "This has to be one of the best days of my career.

"I'd love to come back here next year."

Thoughts about next year's final are probably a little premature, especially considering the Bulls came within one wrong decision of having to replay this one.

When Bradford were penalised for off-side with just minutes remaining, Peacock was among those expecting Kevin Sinfield to go for the two points and tie things up.

"I was really suprised they didn't go for it," said Peacock. "As soon as the referee gave it I thought we were going to Elland Road. You can't really blame them, they thought they had us on the rack. But I think we would have taken the two points. But I'm glad they didn't because we got our hands on this trophy."