COVENTRY have been put on full alert for a Bulls backlash at Odsal this weekend.

Coach Tom Tsang fears the Bears’ mission on Sunday has just got a whole lot harder against a Bradford side desperate to get the Workington defeat straight out their system.

Tsang admits it will be the highlight of his coaching career pitting his wits against John Kear in a game that has been ringed on their calendar.

But he is under no illusions of how tough Coventry are likely to find it after the Bulls lost their unbeaten tag in Cumbria.

Tsang said: “I’m sure whoever got them this week after losing, it probably changes the dynamic and mindset a little bit. They are going to be redoubled in their determination to get the win.

“It was always going to be a very difficult match-up for us and I think that’s made it even more so.

“It’s good for the competition and opens it up. There are three teams level on points now and below that another three or four who are one win behind.

“We’re under no illusions it’s going to be a really tough day. We’ve seen the other results and the capability of Bradford to rack up big scores when they want to.

“Being a realist, it may at times be a bit of damage limitation. But we’re going to go out there and enjoy it.”

But Tsang insists his side, who are celebrating their 20th anniversary this year, are not novices on the big occasion.

“Last year we went over to Toronto and gave a good account of ourselves,” he added.

“We played Leeds Rhinos in pre-season, which was huge for the club. The Super League trophy was down there and we had a big support.

“We’re obviously playing Bradford twice this year and we’re through to the fifth round of the Challenge Cup and face Widnes next weekend. It’s a really good time for the club.

“We’re singing the praises for rugby league and we feel we’re doing it well. Obviously playing the big names like Bradford, Widnes and Leeds can only help.”

Coventry have lost three out of four so far and were beaten 70-10 by leaders Doncaster on opening day.

But Tsang hopes the wide spaces of Odsal will allow his side to play their natural game.

He said: “We prefer a more expansive game rather than through the middle. We’ve got a young team, who are not as physically developed as some of the more experienced sides.

“We try to move teams around a little bit. Our strength is probably getting on to edges a little bit more.

“We share our ground with Coventry rugby union and the pitch is the largest dimensions it can be. So, we’re used to a big, wide pitch.

“We’ve got a lot of young guys who are playing at this level for the first time this year. But we’re trying to instil some good, attacking principles and instincts – that’s the way we like to play.”

Tsang also intends to take the opportunity this weekend to tap into the vast knowledge of opposite number Kear.

“John is a legend. I used to work for the RFL so knew him professionally before now.

“I’ll be having a chat with him after the game to see if he can give me any tips for a cup upset against Widnes.

“But I’ll be enjoying it on Sunday as much as the players will be.”