BRANDON Pickersgill insists the positivity among this year's Bulls roster bodes well for an attempt at an immediate return to the Betfred Championship.

The rising Odsal star is eager for more first-team action on the back of a number of impressive pre-season performances so far this season.

The 20-year-old has featured in all six games under John Kear's stewardship since the former Wales national coach took the helm in December.

Academy graduate Pickersgill, who is able to perform in a number of positions across the backline, has caught the eye in the red, amber and black since making his debut against Toulouse last season.

Having experienced life in Betfred League One courtesy of a loan spell with this weekend's opponents London Skolars in 2017, the youngster believes the early progress made under Kear is just a sign of things to come.

"There is a really good vibe at the minute and I think it shows we are starting to make progress as a club," said Pickersgill.

"Sunday (beating West Wales Raiders 82-6 in the Challenge Cup) showed what we are capable of if we approach every game taking nothing for granted.

"It was a strong team performance from the whistle. The forwards laid the platform with the hard graft up front.

"With Joe (Keyes) and Elliot (Minchella) bang in-form, and with Chizzy (Dane Chisholm) coming back, the options we have bodes well for us.

"It might be tougher for me to start games now. Every chance I get I want to take and show him (Kear) that the shirt is mine for keeps.

"John has been great with me so far. Now he has a tough decision to make – but whoever he chooses I am sure will do the job and help us earn another two points on Sunday."