Bradford Bulls say they will switch their attentions to controversial Aussie Julian O'Neill if moves for Henry Paul hit the rocks.

The T&A revealed yesterday that the Bulls had been in talks with Paul this week but his contract demands could be a stumbling block.

No-one at Odsal was commenting officially today but O'Neill, who is also said to interesting London Broncos, would be an exciting alternative despite a somewhat chequered history Down Under.

He made his name with the all-conquering Brisbane Broncos side but developed something of a bad boy image off the field and has since had spells with London Broncos and Perth before settling with South Sydney.

Meanwhile Paul, brother of Bulls' ace Robbie, is set for crunch talks with Wigan next week over his future.

His contract at Central Park runs out at the end of the season but they have an option to extend it.

Henry has expressed his desire to join his brother but he would not come cheap and the Bulls are anxious not to become involved in an auction.

Bulls coach Matthew Elliott was making final checks on Bernard Dwyer and Nathan McAvoy today as his side prepare to take on surprise package Halifax at the Shay on Sunday night.

Dwyer (knee) and recent £140,000 buy McAvoy (ankle) will both be given every chance to prove their fitness at training today before Elliott sits down to select his side.

Prop Tahi Reihana is the other doubt after limping off at Knowsley Road last week with an ankle strain. Winger Abi Ekoku may also come into contention against his old club after missing the last five matches through injury and family bereavement.

The Blue Sox have turned their form around completely under coach John Pendlebury this season and seem certain of a the top three spot, squeezing out their fierce local rivals.

Coach Elliott admits: "They will be tough opposition for us. They are playing with a lot of confidence which has been developed through having the same group of players out on the park every week.

"They have had a good run as far as injuries are concerned and are playing a very positive style of rugby. They certainly deserve to be where they are."

Halifax are making 500 tickets for the game available free to junior Bulls fans under-16.They will be available on a first come first served basis at Odsal tomorrow from 9.30am until 12.30.

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