Brian Noble appointment well received at Bradford Bulls

After guiding the Odsal outfit to a 3rd place finish in the Betfred Championship, and then to the semi-finals of the play-offs, the former Catalan Dragons assistant surprised the rugby league world by deciding to depart West Yorkshire.

Hallas, who had also worked under O’Carroll at Newcastle Thunder, confirmed that the news sent shockwaves around the first team squad.

Speaking to the T&A, he said: “I think the group were shocked with Eamon’s exit, but at the same time everyone understood that he had to do what was best for him.

“Freddy (Eamon O’Carroll) got a full-time job offered to him, so nobody begrudges him for taking that opportunity.

“Of course, we were gutted to see him leave because we felt like we were building something special.

“He’s also a top bloke and a very good coach, so we wish him all the best.”

Reflecting on the moment when the squad discovered O’Carroll’s departure, Hallas said: “We found out that Freddy was leaving during our end of season meeting, and he let us all know there.

“We managed to have a drink with him and give him a good send off. I wish him every success in his career because he deserves it, and I know the rest of the squad feel the same way too.”

Sam Hallas (ball in hand) played under Eamon O'Carroll in two different spells (Image: Tom Pearson) It didn’t take Bradford long to find their replacement, however, as club legend Brian Noble was announced as head coach just two weeks after the departure of O’Carroll, who has since joined St Helens as the club’s assistant boss.

“It’s been a really positive reaction. We all know him, and he knows us so there has not been too much change in that regard,” said Hallas when asked about the appointment of Noble.

“Nobby (Brian Noble) has coached some of the best players to have ever played the game, so he immediately has everyone’s respect, and I know the group are all really looking forward to working under him properly.

“The continuity with Brian and Greeny (Lee Greenwood) is important for us too because it means that we’re not having to start again and get to know each other as such, but instead we’ll be feeding in a couple of new faces when pre-season comes around (Thursday).

“Nobby has been there and done it before, so he’ll be a great figurehead for this group of players. For that reason, I think it’s a fantastic appointment.”

Reflecting on the aftermath of last season’s heartbreaking 21-20 defeat in the play-off semi-final, in Toulouse, Hallas said: “It was a tough one to take. We were really confident throughout the week leading up to it, but I don’t think we performed anywhere near our best level and kept shooting ourselves in the foot.

“As a group, however, I don’t think we should dwell on it too much because there’s another Championship season just around the corner.

“Personally, I’ve managed to have a very good off season spending time with family and friends, so I can’t complain.”

Hallas admitted that he needed the off-season break to regroup and mentally recharge.

He said: “It was a tough year for myself, particularly off-field with my dad’s passing, so it’s been nice to spend some precious time with my family.

“I managed to get away for a week which was exactly what I needed, so I feel mentally recharged and I’m ready to go again.”