New Bradford Bulls signing helps Ireland thrash Scotland

Both countries were playing their first international game since the last Rugby League World Cup in the autumn of 2022.

Half back Keyes stood out, as he warmed up for Bulls’ return for pre-season training next month by scoring two tries.

The first came after 33 minutes, and helped put the Irish 20-6 in front at the break, while his second score on 65 minutes finished the Scots off once and for all.

Aidan McGowan also got on the scoresheet for Ireland, with the former Bulls loanee making his debut for the country.

Aidan McGowan causing problems for the Dewsbury defence in a comfortable Bulls win there back in June. (Image: Tom Pearson.)

Keanan Brand, who like McGowan, spent some time with Bradford earlier this season, was also in the starting line-up.

As for Scotland, their side was selected by head coach Nathan Graham, who has also just been appointed as one of Bulls’ pathway assistant coaches, he and Brendan Sheridan joining the club’s academy set-up in the past week.

Graham has previously spent time as a coach at Keighley and there were Cougars past and future in the Scotland line-up.

Izaac Farrell, about to join Keighley from Sheffield on a two-year deal, lined up in the halves alongside Oscar Thomas, who is leaving Cougar Park when his contract expires at the end of next month.

Farrell helped draw Scotland level on 19 minutes, as he converted Matty Fletcher’s try to make the scores 6-6.

But Ireland proved far too strong in the end, as their big win helped them earn useful world ranking points.