There would be no better way for Dave Halley to celebrate a new Bulls deal than finally ditching Leeds Rhinos.

The fans' favourite has penned a fresh one-year contract at Grattan Stadium, where he is set to come back into the side tonight for the arch-rivals' latest heavyweight battle.

Signing on the dotted line has been a real boost for the young home-town hero, who knew his current deal was up at the end of the season.

The lively winger has earned the reward though following a series of stylish displays.

Halley's gone from rookie to star in the space of a few weeks and is delighted to be staying into 2009.

"This is the only club I want to be at," said the 21-year-old.

"Bradford is where I'm improving year after year and it's the coaching staff here that are the reason for that.

"As much as the Bulls are a big club, I need to keep developing and they can help me do that.

"I'm a Bradford lad, I'm glad to get it sorted and now we're all looking forward to Leeds."

Academy product Halley had been on the fringes until starring at full back in the defeat against the Rhinos two months ago. He has been one of the Bulls' form players since, although he was rested at Castleford last Sunday after suffering the after-effects of a virus.

"I think playing full back has got me the deal but the last couple of weeks I have been down on energy and Steve (McNamara) was right to leave me out," said Halley, who could be back on the wing tonight.

"I'm feeling fresh again now though and looking for a big game."

The Bulls have lost twice against Leeds in recent weeks, something Wales international Halley wants to put right at the third attempt.

"We fully believe we can win and that's another reason why I wanted to sign," said the former Dudley Hill junior.

"Playing with brilliant players like Paul Deacon and Glenn Morrison you can only improve.

"We felt we had Leeds at Cardiff in that first half and it was just a couple of slip-ups that cost us but we're more excited than ever by this match at Odsal."

McNamara said: "We're delighted Dave's re-signed. He's progressing and turning into a valuable member of the squad.

"Dave's whole attitude is excellent and his game is really developing while he's a pleasure to have around. He's a local lad from Bradford, which is important too."

  • Start or join a debate on this issue in our online forum - Click here