7:02am Friday 13th June 2008
By Dave Craven
Fit-again Semi Tadulala believes he can help keep Super League's most destructive strike partnership quiet tonight.
The Fijian winger returns from a dislocated shoulder to hand depleted Bulls a much-needed boost for their trip to St Helens.
It is no easy return, with Tadulala thrown straight back in opposite the competition's top scorer Ade Gardner, who has notched a prolific 21 tries so far.
Many of those have been laid on a plate by the guile and craft of stellar ex-Aussie Test centre Matt Gidley, with the duo currently the most menacing act around.
Robust Tadulala realises he and Shontayne Hape will come under inevitable pressure this evening, saying: "I played against Gidley back in Australia and we all know he is world class.
"He's now got a great partnership going with Gardner but I'm looking forward to the challenge against them.
"Give anyone too much space and they can do anything they want; players are only as good as you let them be but if you get your defensive line in front of them, they will crack.
"We know that and the way we defend with pressure should be able to rectify their threat. Me and Shonny are looking to give them some problems of their own."
Tadulala was in a purple patch himself before getting crocked against Leeds three weeks ago.
He had bagged 14 tries in his previous eight games to prove his own potency and is desperate to earn a new deal at Odsal. "That's what I want," said the 30-year-old.
"I love it here at Bradford and just want to concentrate on getting back into the action and carrying on from where I left off.
"For me, the way they are playing, there's no better match to come back for than St Helens away. Saints have hit some real form.
"We're in a bit of adversity with all these injuries but I think this is a good challenge for us.
"We have to stand up and be counted to get out of this situation and hopefully we'll do that at Knowsley Road."
© Copyright 2001-2012 Newsquest Media Group
http://www.thetelegraphandargus.co.uk