Man of the match Mike Forshaw was quick to share the praise after the Bulls scrambled through into the Challenge Cup semi-finals.

The veteran loose forward had an inspirational second half as Bradford recovered from a ten-point half-time deficit to defeat a brave Widnes outfit 38-28 in Saturday's enthralling encounter.

Two tries from the Great Britain international after the break ensured Bradford got their name in the velvet bag despite another poor first-half display.

"There were some great performances out there by a number of players," said the 32-year-old former Wigan, Wakefield and Leeds player.

"I don't think this win should be underestimated. We had a few players out and Widnes did very well.

"It was a hard-fought victory and I thought Rob Parker, Lesley Vainikolo, Shontayne Hape, Paul Deacon, Lee Radford, Leon Pryce and Robbie Paul were all superb."

The Bulls went in 22-12 down at the break after scores from Stuart Spruce, Dean Lawford, Jason Demotriou and Adam Hughes had punished a wasteful Bulls opening period.

But they put in their usual second-half display of powerful, flowing rugby with Scott Naylor, Paul and Forshaw's double sealing the win after the lead had changed hands five ties in the pulsating tie.

"It wasn't the best first half again, but we were sure we would be able to dominate them in the second half," said Forshaw, who admits his season has started slowly after the rigours of last year's Test Series against New Zealand.

"Even when we were behind we were confident we would come back."

Forshaw was denied a hat-trick by a superb 'man and ball' tackle by former team-mate Spruce, but was still delighted with his two tries and the resulting man of the match award.

"It always seems that if you score you get the award," added Forshaw, who bagged £200 from sponsors Powergen for his performance. "I think I'll spend the money on some Easter Eggs for the kids!"

The draw for the semi-finals will take place tomorrow afternoon with Wigan, St Helens and Leeds still in the competition.