William Hill Betting

Quote: Snake Eater "Bulls are very very tricky to predict.

I don't like Leeds fans attitude towards them this season, it's far too c[io[/ick sure and there's not enough caution in the air.

I would warn them about what the bulls could potentially achieve but i'll get accused of trolling..blah blah blah.

If you look at 2007 bradford performed pretty well, falling short at crucial times. Leeds were certainly lucky in the points they took off the bulls.

Last season i felt you had a [ibetter[/i squad than 07, this was reflected in bookies taking you to finish top. However you performed far worse.

I think alot of new signings then injuries to them, lots of chopping and changing, you just never had chance to settle.

Again this season i feel your overall squad is better than last season. So my prediction if for you to challenge for top 2 and have a good shot at making a final.

The thing is, last season means nothing, and sometimes teams can improve ten fold just by better training and work ethic rather any tangible changes to staff and personnel.

People can harp back to the backline and what not, but bradford have a very good pack and when you have that you always stand a chance in big games, as long as you can get your first choice pack out.

This is my opinion on Bradford.'"

I agree with most of this. Bradford are difficult to predict for next season. If the Bulls can avoid injury to their best players they could be one of the major competitors for the title. A top 3 finish is certainly possible.

The only teams I would say Bradford will struggle to finish above are Leeds, Saints and Warrington, possibly Wigan. Of these teams, Saints are noticeably weakened compared to last season, Warrington look to continue being perennial underachievers with Lowes in charge (their main achilles heel IMO) and Briers given too much a pivotal role, whereas Wigan just don't have the X-factor. Even Leeds start too look weak if Peacock gets a long term injury.

A positive start to the season is needed though to prove to the players, coach and fans that the problems of 2008 have been finally dealt with.

Hull and Les Catalans could also pose threats. In the case of the latter I feel that more teams will be going to France with their 'A-game' after last years exploits so they (French players in particular) will have to improve again. It is difficult for clubs breaking into the top 6 one year to follow this up with renewed success the following year, as Hull & Salford have already found out.