Jimmy Lowes says Bradford Bulls can finish in the top two if they steer clear of injuries for the rest of the 2004 Tetley's Super League campaign.

The Bulls' assistant coach, speaking at the launch of his three-month testimonial at Odsal last night, said: "We have had to make many changes this season because of injuries.

"We have lost Tevita Vaikona, which is a massive loss, but the signing of Iestyn Harris will help us."

The 33-year-old, who ended a 16-year playing career last season in style as the Bulls won the clean sweep of domestic trophies and the World Club Champions crown, added: "If we can get a consistent side week in, week out then there is no reason why we cannot finish higher than third.

"We have a massive game against Hull on Sunday, but again there is no reason why we cannot win it."

Lowes, whose testimonial proper will run in November, December and mid-January to mid-February, added: "You are looking to peak at play-off time.

"Unfortunately finishing No 1 in the regular season does not guarantee you getting to the Grand Final."

Lowes, who played for Hunslet and Leeds before joining the Bulls, admitted he is still finding his feet as a coach.

"I am finding it quite hard to be honest," said the former Great Britain hooker.

"I have played for eight years with a lot of the lads, but the hardest thing has been stopping myself having a laugh with them on the training pitch.

"Fortunately there have been quite a few changes in playing personnel since the end of last season, which has helped a little bit."

Lowes' testimonial will be running at the same time as Robbie Paul's season-long testimonial, which started on March 1 and will finish on February 28 next year.

The first event of Lowes' testimonial will be a golf day at Northcliffe Golf Club on Wednesday, August 25.

In September there will be a golf classic in Marbella, a comedy night at St George's Hall featuring Phoenix Nights' Dave Spikey and a race night at Odsal.

There is also a three-day trip to the Prix de'l Arc de Triomphe in October, a Christmas party night in December and a Hookers Legends dinner in February featuring Lowes and Kieron Cunningham.

Further details are available from Impress Sport Ltd on 01422-367779.

l The Bulls senior academy side are at home to St Helens tomorrow night (Odsal, 7.30pm) looking for a hat-trick of wins following successes against Halifax and Wigan.