Leon Pryce was catching his breath this week after a hectic spell which underlined his standing as one of the top prospects in British rugby league.

After making only his second senior start at St Helens on Easter Monday the 17-year-old lead his country at junior level in France on Friday.

But any thought of a relaxing weekend were quashed with a call from Matthew Elliott in-forming him he had kept his Bulls place for Sunday's visit from Wakefield Trinity.

"Matt told me that Stuart Spruce had not recovered as expected from his knee injury and that he was giving me an-other run at full-back.

"We flew back from France to Gatwick on Saturday and then had a long coach journey home finally arriving back in Bradford at 2.00am on Sunday. "I was pretty shattered but after a good night's sleep I was raring to go on Sunday"

And it certainly showed against the Wildcats with a rousing man of the match from the back which showed the way for many far more experienced col-leagues.

"I know I still have a lot to learn in certain areas but I was really pleased with the way it went against Trinity. To get the man of the match award capped a great night for me."

But Pryce believes an essential factor in his performance was the huge learning curve that the mauling at Saints represented.

"It was a day most of the players will want to forget but for me it really was a great experience. It taught me so much about what is required at this level."

There is no doubting his ambition but Pryce is content for the moment to learn his trade in the Alliance and Academy sides with occasional run-outs in Super League.

"I will grab every opportunity as it comes along but I have a few short terms goals too. There is a Great Britain under-21 tour to Australia at the end of the season which will coincide with the senior side's participation in the Tri-Series.

"There is also an Academy tour Down Under in December too so there is plenty for me to aim for."

Eventually Pryce sees himself settling in his favoured centre position but says: "I've enjoyed full-back because it allows you to chime into the line and time your runs."

He may have to stand down again this weekend with Spruce likely to return after injury but judging by his performances in the last couple of games it might not be too long before Elliott has to find a regular spot in the top 17.

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