McNamara - Derby is massive

Bulls coach hopes for another surprise win over Yorkshire rivals

Last updated: 25th June 2009   Subscribe to RSS Feed

McNamara - Derby is massive

McNamara: Relishing Derby

I think it is still a massive game for everyone involved, irrespective of league positions

Brian McNamara
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Bradford coach Steve McNamara insists Friday's derby with Leeds is still a massive game, despite the Bulls' struggles this season.

In previous years the two fierce Yorkshire rivals have been battling it out at the top of the engage Super League table.

However, Bradford find themselves stuck in the wrong half of the table this season having managed just six wins from their 16 games.

But, despite trailing the Rhinos by 11 points, McNamara believes the matches between the two teams are still massive - particularly after the Bulls shocked the defending champions 10-6 earlier this year.

Massive game

"I think it is still a massive game for everyone involved, irrespective of league positions," said McNamara.

"I think there will be a few more points this time but despite that scoreline there was plenty of drama.

"The competitive nature of the two clubs - the players, coaches and supporters - means that quite often these games go down to the wire."

Bradford are three points outside the play-off positions after suffering a 44-18 home loss to league leaders St Helens last weekend.

However, McNamara believes his players must put that heavy defeat behind by making a fast start against the Rhinos.

He added: "We need to get out there and play really well from the start, stamp our mark on this game and continue it for the full 80 minutes."

Demanding more

Leeds boss Brian McClennan is also demanding more from his side, despite a comfortable 48-14 win against Harlequins last time out.

"We were happy to get the win last week at Harlequins but not totally happy with our performance," the former New Zealand coach said.

"We have spoken about that this week and we know we need to start better against Bradford.

"Because of the rivalry between both clubs it is always a game that gets everyone excited."