Bradford Bulls' major close season capture Brad Mackay arrived at Odsal yesterday and immediately looked ahead to forming a fruitful partnership with the Paul brothers.

The 30-year-old former Aust-ralian tourist has looked on admiringly from afar as the Kiwi brothers have become major players on the international and English domestic scene and now can't wait to play alongside them.

"That is one aspect I am really looking forward to," Mackay said just hours after his arrival at Odsal from Sydney following a 20-hour plus flight.

"I had two half-backs at St George Illawarra in Anthony Mundine and Trent Barrett who were of similar style and hopefully I can read Robbie and Henry as well. I will certainly be trying!

"I have been very impressed with their play and I know that if they are looking good for the Bulls next season I will be doing my job."

Mackay suffered Grand Final heartbreak with St George Illawarra last season and says it will be a major spur as he sets out on his new challenge with the Bulls.

"I watched their Grand Final defeat and believe me I know how they feel. For both Bradford and St George it was a case of them losing it rather than the opposition winning it.

"But I saw the Bulls a few times on pay TV back home and I know I am coming to a good club.

"I played in the same side as Matthew (Elliott) at St George in the early 90s when we got to two Grand Finals. I know him personally and have heard some good things about his coaching ability.

"I have a young family and it has been a big decision but after touring with Australia in 1990 I was always keen to come back here and play club rugby.

"I am not coming for an easy ride though. The games I have seen are every bit as fast as they are in Australia and I think the British game has improved dramatically.

"You don't have unlimited interchanges here either so you have to stay on the field longer and that means it is going to be a real challenge.

"It also means you have to be versatile and be able to fill in anywhere. I prefer loose forward but I am a player that the coach can move around and ask to do different jobs."

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