Challenge experience convinced Aussie to sign for Bulls (From Bradford Telegraph and Argus)

Challenge experience convinced Aussie to sign for Bulls

6:50am Monday 23rd November 2009

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A meeting with the Bulls’ bitterest rivals was enough to convince Matt Orford he had a future in Super League.

The 31-year-old scrum half got a good grounding for his move to Odsal after getting one over Leeds Rhinos in this year’s World Club Challenge.

Captain of the Manly side that defeated the Rhinos 28-20 at Elland Road in March, Orford’s experience in England was key in tempting him back to these shores.

And contrary to popular opinion, the 2008 Dally M medal winner insists Super League is not a poor relation to Australia’s NRL.

Bradford’s high-profile off-season recruit said: “I really did want to play in Super League. It opened my eyes when we played the World Club Challenge over there.

“We had a week in London and two in Leeds and I loved my time over here. I always wished that I could play in Super League for a few years. I’ve got so many mates who have come over here and I’m a fan of the game.

“After playing Leeds, I don’t think there’s that much difference in standards between Super League and the NRL. That’s why I think it’s a great challenge for myself. The conditions are a lot different though, so I’ll have to get used to that!

“I see the game in this country as very healthy. The fans are incredible too, really noisy, and that’s why I get excited about coming to play here. It’s a new environment and a fresh start. I can’t wait.”

Orford also sought a little help from his friends in making the tough decision to leave Manly and head for the northern hemisphere.

The Bulls’ very own ‘Beaver’, Steve Menzies, was at the head of the list of players to sing Super League’s praises but the competition received glowing references from a host of former team-mates.

“I’ve spoken with Steve Menzies at length and I hold him in really high regard,” said Orford.

“He really loves the joint and there must be something special about the place to make him go round again at his age. I think he’s about 40 now!

“But I’ve also spoken to Steve Bell at Catalans – he’s got a nice little number in the south of France – and Matt King at Warrington. Kingy had a rough time last year but now he’s turned it around and is really enjoying it.

“I’m looking forward to meeting my new team-mates as well. It doesn’t matter where you go, you always make good mates in footy because most people are good guys.”

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