Bulls assistant coach Basil Richards today heaped praise on his all-firing young guns.

A host of Under-18 players, along with three senior academy debutantes, were handed the task of tackling Dewsbury in Sunday's pre-season opener.

But the aspiring youngsters delivered a performance rich in commitment and skill to cement a 30-16 win, leaving boss Richards beaming.

"I was really encouraged with what I saw," he said.

"They have all worked hard during pre-season and it showed against Dewsbury.

"We looked fit and strong and I was delighted with how we performed.

"We had a lot of young kids out there against a Dewsbury team with plenty of experience but they really stood up and the commitment was excellent.

"There were times in the second half when Dewsbury had plenty of possession but we scrambled really well in defence, were enthusiastic and did what we needed to do."

Richards added: "With the new boys, Jode Sheriffe defended really well and carried strongly while Danny Garside and Chris Clarke both went well considering they've only been involved with us for the last five or six weeks.

"Luke Helliwell kicked great and our captain Richard Johnson led by example."

Meanwhile, the quality display of winger Dave Halley in the full back role will have given head coach Steve McNamara plenty of food for thought for his Super League plans.

"I think he has probably now given Steve another option," admitted Richards.

"It wasn't just the way Dave ran the ball out of defence so well, his talk was really good at the back too and it was a very encouraging performance."

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