Bradford Bulls prop Brian McDermott is ready for Halifax Blue Sox if they try and mix it in Sunday night's derby at The New Shay

The 31-year-old, who missed last weekend's home victory against Leeds Rhinos because of an operation on his left knee, said: "Every time we play Halifax they try 'silly-boy' tactics.

"And every time we play them at their place every try is not a try, every time we play the ball it is a foul, every time we tackle we are lying on - everything we do is a cheat, so I just hope we cheat again on Sunday!

"If they want to try that again let them try it again. They tried it at Valley Parade to a certain extent and we blitzed them 64-12."

Added McDermott: "The sad thing about Halifax is that if they just stopped their niggling tactics and got down to playing football they are not a bad side - especially their half backs, who seem to be running their show pretty well at the moment.

"Their whole team are well organised, and if you don't stand up and be counted against them then they also have a formidable pack."

McDermott, who has scored three tries so far this season, added: "There is no danger of complacency.

"We have eight games to go and we realise how crucial first spot in the league is as far as the play-offs are concerned.

"We then only have to play one game and we are through to the Grand Final, instead of what we did last year - going to Wigan going to St Helens and trying to win."

Bradford Bulls' match against the Australian tourists in the autumn has been confirmed. It will be on Sunday, October 28 at Valley Parade (6pm).