Matthew Elliott took a swipe back at the critics as the champions sent a message to the rest of Super League with a rousing 33-22 derby success over high-flying Leeds Rhinos at Headingley last night.

As the Bulls signalled they have no intention of giving up their crown lightly Elliott said: "I found it difficult to maintain my dignity I must admit.

"We have copped a lot of individual and collective stick over a period but this should shut one or two of them up.

"I have a long memory and I remember which people were there for us and who jumped ship.

"But this was certainly not our Grand Final this was just the start but we have set ourselves that goal and we are going to have a real go for it.

"We are still going to find ourselves fourth or fifth in the ladder and we have a lot of hard work ahead. We are certainly not kidding ourselves.

"But this was a great starting point for the rest of the season."

Elliott spoke of his confidence beforehand that his side would end the Rhinos 100 per cent home record and avenge their defeat by their greatest rivals in round two.

"I never doubted for one minute that we would do it. Even when Jon Scales was sent off the spirit was so great out there I knew we would not throw it away.

"It's hard to describe the atmosphere in the dressing room before kick-off but I think if you had struck a match it would have exploded."

Elliott immediately handed his players a week off prior to the roadshow clash with London Broncos in Edinburgh on July 18.

"After the Salford defeat I threatened to take it away but they deserve it know," he added.

Meanwhile Elliott said the club would strongly defend Scales for his dismissal for an alleged high tackle on Paul Sterling.

l Sheffield Eagles beat Castleford Tigers 22-16 to record their third straight victory and keep in touch with the top five.

Coach John Kear said: "We played to the game plan and I am pleased with the win and I hope we can kick on from here."

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