JIMMY Lowes saw the returning Lee Gaskell score a hat-trick in yesterday's demolition of Sheffield before heaping praise on half-back partner Danny Addy.

The Bulls made an impressive start to their Super 8s campaign with a 42-10 victory which lifted them to the top of the embryonic Qualifiers table.

Gaskell had not played since breaking his jaw against Doncaster two months ago but he was back with a fine display which also included a number of try assists.

Yet head coach Lowes said of Gaskell: "He was lacking a little bit of match fitness, as I expected.

"If you're going to single out anybody for praise then it has to be Danny Addy because I thought he was great again.

"Everybody is missing that and it surprises me because I watch Super League and see how the halves play.

"He was very good in the first half, in particular, and gave us a superb platform. He has played half-back nearly all year and is very capable in that position."

New recruit Dane Nielsen was introduced to the crowd before kick-off, while chairman Marc Green dashed back from his holiday in Ibiza for the match.

Lowes was not overly impressed with his team's display, particularly after they tailed off in the second half.

"I didn't think Sheffield offered a great deal – but it wasn't about Sheffield, it was about us," he said.

"In the first half, our forwards were very good, but there were periods where they were pretty average.

"We were very loose in the second half and we need to improve massively in a lot of areas – but I'm sure that will come."

Sheffield boss Mark Aston admitted his side got what they deserved and pinpointed Gaskell as the difference.

"Gaskell is the key for Bradford and he scored three tries at a canter," he said.

Jake Mullaney was withdrawn in the final quarter with a back problem and will be assessed ahead of Saturday's trip to Wakefield as the Bulls continue their Qualifiers programme.