Nigel Askham talks to second-rower Warren Jowitt

Warren Jowitt touches wood whenever he talks of his current injury free run.

It's no wonder really having seen his last two seasons devastated by a broken ankle (1997) and cruciate knee ligament damage (1998).

But now, after 11 successive games, the 24-year-old is showing the form which made the Bulls pluck him from the relative obscurity of Hunslet four years ago.

"It has been so frustrating over the last couple of seasons to have to sit on the sidelines," admits Jowitt.

"But after injuring the knee against Halifax last year I never doubted for a minute that I would come back.

"The aim from then on was just to make sure that I was fit again and available for selection at the start of this season."

And despite some fierce competition for Odsal pack places Jowitt has managed to firmly establish himself in Matthew Elliott's top 17.

"It is hard work because you know if you cock-up once then you will be out the following week.

"We have a lot of quality in the back-row and David Boyle has added to that. I have been pretty happy with my form when I have got on though.

"My target now is to get more game time as the season goes on and I will only be satisfied when I am in the starting line-up.

"I have a reputation as an impact player from the bench but I am like every player - I want to be in the run-on side."

A couple of tries against Salford and Gateshead in successive games have underlined his growing maturity and Jowitt is happy to be part of a winning unit.

"There really is a great spirit in the squad this season and no back-biting at all.That is certainly helping us get through some difficult games."

Defence has been the key factor in their success so far and Jowitt has certainly played his part in that was his mobility.

"We have made a real effort in that department this season with Brian Noble taking responsibility as our defensive coach.

"We set ourselves a target for points to concede each week and there is a real determination to succeed," added Jowitt who, not suprisingly, declined to reveal what the limit had been set at for tomorrow's visit of the Giants.

"Despite their recent results we are expecting a tough game. They played very well here in a trial game at the start of the season and any side coached by Malcolm Reilly is sure to be committed."

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