FEATHERSTONE caused a major stir last season when they won 37-18 at Odsal on a sweltering July evening. It was the hottest day of the year and part-time Rovers took Jimmy Lowes' side to the cleaners.

So it was all the more curious when head coach Andy Hay was shown the door just days later. He was replaced by ex-Huddersfield chief Jon Sharp, who has embarked on a major overhaul during the winter.

It is a much-changed squad from last season and the Bulls will not take Rovers lightly – not after last year's shock defeat.

Sharp, a Featherstone lad, has made some impressive signings such as Michael Channing, Danny Craven, Darrell Griffin, Misi Taulapapa and former Bulls half back Kyle Briggs.

"We've brought 11 new players in and made lots of changes," said Sharp.

"Last year I was fortunate to have the last 12 games with Featherstone and looked at some of the things we were doing on and off the field.

"I felt we needed more leadership on the field and to improve our kicking game. We brought in (Anthony) Thackeray, (Kyle) Briggs and (Danny) Craven and hopefully they've been able to address those issues."

Rovers claimed a comprehensive 32-16 win over a youthful Leeds Rhinos outfit last weekend in their final pre-season friendly.

Boyhood Bulls fan Jack Ormondroyd, son of Bradford City legend Ian Ormondroyd – who played for Featherstone in their win at Odsal last July – featured against the Rhinos and should be involved again tomorrow.

Sharp said: "The way they played against Leeds, it looks like we've got a decent combination there.

"This week is a real tough one at Bradford but one we're excited about. We know that after Leigh they're probably the second-best team in the competition. It's one of the hardest starts but that's added spice to our training.

"We know we can't feel our way into the season, we have to hit the ground running and we have to be in good form and play at our very best to be competitive against Bradford."

Steve Snitch is out with a damaged knee and Matty Wildie is doubtful with a leg injury.