COACH Leigh Beattie described Bradford Bulls victory over Swinton Lions as a 'massive' moment in the club's season.

The Bulls opened their account with a 35-28 win and collected their first two points since the nightmare of liquidation.

Beattie, who is still standing-in for new coach Geoff Toovey amid the delay in obtaining his necessary paperwork, said: "This is a massive result. Everyone knows how big it is to get that first two points on the board. Hopefully, we will kick-on now."

Tries from Ethan Ryan (3), Oscar Thomas, Ross Oakes, and James Mendeika secured the win while Thomas also scored six times between the post.

"I am delighted and it's nice to be able to stand here with a smile on my face and not having to make any excuses," added Beattie.

"We are improving week-in, week-out and we just need to cut out the penalties now. We are still a bit sloppy when we start to get on top but Swinton are a very good side who play quick rugby and are tough with it. We had to match that and we did."

Beattie praised the performances of new signings Scott Moore and Kevin Larroyer and captain Leon Pryce, saying: "Scott bossed it and he is mentally tough along with Leon. They showed their experience and the young lads fed off that."

He also hailed the performance of hat-trick hero Ryan saying: "Ethan was outstanding. Two of his tries were unbelievable finishes and he talent who can only get better."

Referee Andy Sweet ruled out a drop goal from Joe Keyes which had gone through the posts but, ultimately, it was not decisive.

Beattie said: "I thought the drop kick went over - and so did everyone else! It would not have been nice if it had come down to that decision. It was a bit of a physical game, too, but the referees do a fantastic job.

Commenting on the Bulls supporters who made up around 75 per cent of the crowd at Heywood Road, Beattie said: "We take a big following wherever we go and they are always loud and vocal. They kept us going. We were looking over at the stand from the dug-out and it was full of Bradford fans. There is nothing better for the players."