York Knights vs Bradford Bulls Super League Round 27 Tips & Prediction
Bradford +10.5 looks a good way into the final game of the season, with the Bulls showing enough improvement last week to suggest they can keep this competitive.
York have generally been the more reliable side, particularly when it comes to making metres and winning field position. Bradford, however, produced a much better performance against Castleford and have already beaten the Knights 30-20 this season.
Both defences have shown vulnerabilities, which should give Bradford opportunities even if York control periods of the game. Waqa Blake is the tryscorer pick after crossing twice in his last three appearances.
York Knights vs Bradford Bulls Stats & Trends
- Bradford won the reverse fixture 30-20.
- York have won just two of their last six Super League matches.
- Bradford ended a seven-game losing streak last round.
- Bradford scored 32 points against Castleford last week.
- Waqa Blake has scored two tries in his last three games.
York Knights Form Analysis
York return home after an impressive 28-16 victory at Catalans, their eighth win of their first Super League season. Victory here would guarantee the Knights a 10th-place finish.
Their attack has remained capable of producing points even through an inconsistent run, while their ability to make metres should give them opportunities against Bradford's defence.
York did, however, concede 30 points to Bradford in June, with the Bulls scoring through Eribe Doro, Jayden Nikorima, Joe Mellor and Riley Dean.
Bradford Bulls Form Analysis
Bradford finally returned to winning ways last week with a 32-22 victory over Castleford, ending a run of seven consecutive defeats and keeping alive their hopes of avoiding the wooden spoon.
The Bulls showed considerably more energy with the ball and were better at both making and restricting metres. Their biggest issue remains discipline, with Bradford ranking among the league's worst sides for both errors and penalties.
There is plenty of motivation here too. A Bradford victory will ensure they avoid finishing bottom, making the +10.5 handicap particularly appealing.
York Knights vs Bradford Bulls Team News
York have named an unchanged squad following their victory over Catalans. Ben Jones-Bishop is set to make his 400th career appearance if selected.
Bradford receive a major boost with Esan Marsters returning to the squad after being sidelined since suffering an Achilles injury in April. Loghan Lewis drops out with a knee problem.