Bulls risk more cash to challenge six-point deduction

In a legal challenge which will cost the cash-strapped club “tens of thousands” of pounds, the Bulls will look to overturn the penalty imposed by the Rugby Football League.

An original challenge to the Sporting Sanctions Appeal Panel was rejected after it was ruled the Bulls had not met the necessary threshold to allow an appeal to be fully considered.

Without the six points, Bradford – who sit second from bottom and nine points adrift of safety – look destined for relegation from Super League.

A spokesperson for the Bulls’ board of directors said: “Our solicitors and barrister have now had further opportunity to consider the complex issues raised, both in relation to the original points deduction and the subsequent decision of the Sporting Sanctions Appeal Panel to uphold it.

“The advice which the club has received is positive and, as a consequence of that indication, it is the club’s intention to pursue what are considered to be appropriate legal remedies.

“The decision to do so has not been made lightly and will be continually reviewed to ensure that any action taken is beneficial to the club, players, partners, supporters and the sport as a whole.”

Bradford’s legal challenge means clubs like Salford and Wakefield Trinity Wildcats – currently in relative safety – would be dragged back into the relegation fight were the Bulls to win back their six points.

“We are conscious of the fact others may be affected by our decision and indeed any outcome to the process,” added the Bulls spokesperson.

“Together with the club’s legal team, we shall endeavour to ensure matters are dealt with as efficiently as possible.”

But Trinity coach James Webster is not happy about the uncertainty which now surrounds the battle to stay in Super League.

He said: “How many times can you keep knocking at the door, when it keeps getting closed on you?

“I don’t know how long the High Court will take.”