Bradford Bulldogs had nothing to show from their trip across the Pennines to meet Blackburn Hawks, putting in a creditable performance before going down 8-4.

In a closely-fought match the Bulldogs came under intense

pressure in the opening period with the Hawks looking to take an early lead.

Despite trailing after the first period 3-0 the Bulldogs never stopped battling and were rewarded in the second period with a goal from Dan

Baldwin.

With confidence restored following a 1-1 second period scoreline, the Bulldogs were rocked by the loss of Russ Wackett, who was thrown out of the game on a harsh clipping penalty - seen as a minor penalty by both sets of supporters.

The third period saw the Bulldogs put up a much

better performance with goals from Dale Wells, Dean Boothroyd and Mark

McDonald.

However, the Hawks, inspired by player-coach Bobby Haig who was a constant menace, came back with a further four goals to clinch the game 8-4.