TENSION is growing at Bulls, with chairman Nigel Wood criticising "blatant lies" and those "peddling malice and mischief" after extraordinary scenes on Friday night.

Bradford's embarrassing 53-10 defeat at lowly Newcastle was the final straw for many fans, who have openly criticised what they perceive to be a lack of direction and progress at the club, with chants of "we want Nigel out" heard even before the game started.

At full-time, a group of Bulls fans went into the stands to confront Wood, who chose to steer well clear.

Responding to allegations that he disrespected supporters after the match, a combative Wood hit back on Sunday night.

In a lengthy statement, he wrote: "Although not personally on social media, I have been made aware of significant allegations made against me, namely that I disrespected Bulls supporters on Friday night after the game at Newcastle.

"Let me be clear - this is a complete and utter fabrication.

"While the club ordinarily doesn't respond or react to the numerous inaccuracies frequently peddled, this is a serious untruth, that, on this occasion, cannot be allowed to stand uncorrected.

"For the avoidance of doubt, after the game I remained in the room from where I'd watched the match, in conversation with club partners, volunteers and Newcastle and RFL officials.

"I had no interactions with any Bulls supporters outside of the immediate group, at any time.

"And yet people I have never actually met are promulgating blatant lies to the contrary.

"They are simply peddling malice and mischief for their own ends.

"This, regrettably, is not an unusual phenomenon among some."

He added: "As a matter of principle, I resist talking about performance issues immediately after any match, when emotions can simply be too high, whether this be with coaches, players, officials or fellow supporters.

"However, for the record, Friday's performance by our team, whether they wear playing kits, tracksuits, blazers or ties, ranks among the worst experiences in my 50 years within our sport.

"Anyone associated with it should reflect on their performances and I apologise on behalf of the whole club to the many supporters who continue to support the Bulls in pursuit of our long-term objective, to make the club a sustainable proposition in Bradford.

"In that respect, myself, along with many colleagues, friends and volunteers, remain totally committed to the cause.

"Furthermore, head coach Mark Dunning, myself and CEO Jason Hirst look forward to meeting with supporters at Thursday's fans' forum, when we will all be available to answer questions as fully as we can.

"For those unable to attend, if you wish to speak to myself or Jason Hirst on a one-to-one basis, please feel free to contact us directly at Odsal."