Brett Kearney admits Sunday’s thumping home defeat at the hands of Wigan was a reality check for the Bulls.

Francis Cummins’ men went into the match with genuine hopes of toppling the Super League leaders.

But they were simply blown away during the first half by the Warriors, who were 30-0 up and in total control.

Although the Bulls improved markedly after the break, and restored a semblance of pride with Jarrod Sammut’s try, the final 36-6 scoreline left them with much to think about.

Kearney said: “It’s definitely fair to say we’re some way off Wigan’s level – you saw that.

“The way Wigan play is the level we’re trying to get to and we don’t think for one second that we are at that level yet.

“They showed us on Sunday that they are the benchmark for the competition and that’s why they’re leading the ladder and we’ve got work to do.”

Kearney accepted the Bulls made mistakes during an opening 40 minutes in which Wigan ran in tries from Liam Farrell (3), Blake Green and Jack Hughes.

But he did take heart from their second-half improvement and reflected: “Wigan are too good a team to make mistakes against.

“Their kicking game was first-class and that’s why they are top of the table.

“They came out at the start of the second half and scored a quick try but we showed some guts and got a try of our own. By that time, the game was gone unfortunately.”

The Bulls squad enjoyed a bonding session when playing snooker and going out for lunch together in Leeds yesterday.