Bradford snap losing streak with victory over Castleford

Bradford Bulls beat Castleford Tigers 32-22 at Odsal Stadium, breaking a seven-match losing streak in the Betfred Super League and adding to the difficulties facing Castleford, who currently have no head coach.

Bradford, led by Kurt Haggerty, were strengthened by the return of three experienced forwards, which gave them control of the match from the outset. By half-time they led thanks to five tries scored by Riley Dean, Connor Wynne, Caleb Aekins, Dan Russell and Waqa Blake, with scrum half Chris Atkin playing a leading role in directing the team's attack.

Castleford responded better in the second half, with Krystian Mapapalangi crossing twice and Alex Mellor adding a late try. However, Bradford maintained a comfortable buffer after Ebon Scurr scored 12 minutes into the second half, effectively securing the win.

The defeat was Castleford's sixth in seven matches since their surprise victory over then-leaders Leeds Rhinos in July.

The win moved Bradford level on points with York Knights, Huddersfield Giants and Hull FC, with one round of the regular season still to play.