Warrington rout Bradford 42-4 to climb into fourth

Warrington Wolves secured a commanding 42-4 victory over Bradford Bulls in Super League action at Bartercard Odsal Stadium, a result that lifted them to fourth place in the table.

Bradford, sitting second from bottom, extended their winless run to nine matches. Warrington, coached by Sam Burgess, took control midway through the first half and went on to score seven tries by full time.

Matty Ashton crossed twice, with further tries from Albert Hopoate, Toby King, Joe Philbin, Jordy Crowther and Ewan Irwin. Irwin also converted every try of the match, stretching his run of successful kicks to 15 in a row.

The win leaves Warrington six points behind leaders Leeds Rhinos and four adrift of second-placed Wigan, with six rounds remaining in the season.

While most attention has focused on the top three of Leeds, Wigan and Wakefield, Warrington have been progressing with less scrutiny, a situation coach Burgess appears comfortable with. England captain George Williams is expected to return from injury in one of the coming matches, which could further boost the club's push for a home play-off spot.

Bradford's only score came early through Ethan Ryan, but the hosts were unable to respond as Warrington pulled away, leading 18-4 at half-time. A key moment came when a Bradford try was disallowed for an infringement in defence, after which Warrington immediately struck again at the other end of the field to extend their advantage.