AS a Bradford lad and boyhood Bulls fan who spent a year in the junior ranks at Odsal, Elliot Minchella needs no added motivation tomorrow afternoon.

The Leeds Rhinos prospect, 19, joined London Broncos on loan earlier this month in a move that could run until the end of the season.

In two appearances so far, Minchella has tasted victory with wins against Featherstone and Batley, sending Andrew Henderson’s renascent side into the top four.

“I’ve played the full 80 minutes at loose forward in both games and am really enjoying my time here,” said the former West Bowling amateur.

“I didn’t know Hendo before I came here but he has been brilliant and really helped me to settle in.

“He’s obviously been there and done it as a player and everyone just wants to do well for Hendo as much as the club.

“It has been a bit difficult for him, stepping in after Joey Grima left, but he’s doing a great job and our results speak for themselves.

“If we can get a win at Odsal, it would be massive and really cement our place as a top-four side.

“That’s what we’ll be looking to do and we believe we can do it.”

Minchella’s dad Chris is a fanatical Bulls supporter and the teenager himself still goes to watch his hometown team when the opportunity arises.

“I’m really looking forward to it and am trying not to think too much about the fact we’re playing Bradford,” said Minchella.

“I’ve played for Leeds against Bradford at Headingley but this will be the first time I’ve played at Odsal in a senior game.

“I’m not sure who my dad will be cheering for on Sunday, but he’ll definitely be there.”

Minchella had no qualms about heading to the capital for a chance to enjoy regular first-team rugby.

He is contracted to Leeds until the end of 2017 and his future remains bright despite a recent disciplinary issue which saw the Rhinos issue him with a written warning.

“I spoke to lads who have been down here before and everything I heard about the club was positive,” said Minchella.

“Hopefully it’s a stepping stone to get into the Leeds first-team because my desire to establish myself at Headingley is massive.

“Every game I play down here, someone from Leeds could be watching so I’ve got to be on top of my game in everything I do.

“If Leeds need me, then hopefully I’ll be playing well and be in a good position to get called back.

“While I’m at London, I just need to take as much out of it as I can.

“It’s a tough, physical league but I’m enjoying it and Hendo is playing me at 13, which is great because that’s my position.

“I can defend in the middle and get my hands on the ball, which is what I enjoy doing.”

Minchella is sharing a house in Finchley with team-mates Ben Hellewell, Harvey Burnett and Tom Gilmore.

Hellewell is another Bradford lad who spent time in the junior ranks at Odsal.

Minchella added: “Against Batley on Monday, Ben played full back with Richie Mathers injured and was man of the match with a brilliant performance.

“Brad Dwyer is on loan from Warrington for the season and he’s played well in both games I’ve been here.

“Rhys Lovegrove played 80 minutes at prop against Featherstone last Friday, so everyone is playing their part and it’s a real collective effort.

“Hendo has got us playing for each other, completing our sets and grinding teams down. It would be great to get a fourth win on the bounce this weekend.”