CALLUM Bustin admits defence will be the key to the Bulls springing a massive shock in the Challenge Cup at Warrington.

John Kear’s side go to the Halliwell Jones Stadium this afternoon as huge underdogs.

But in-form prop Bustin believes they are capable of bridging the gap with their Super League hosts if they can keep it tight.

The Bulls have not conceded more than two tries in a game since the season opener at York City Knights.

And the on-loan Castleford youngster said: “As long as we keep to the structure and put in a huge stint in defence, I think we can do a good job.

“John Kear always says defence is the main show of respect. If you defend well against a team and keep them to a few tries then you’ve got a chance.

“It’s going to be a good test for us against a top Super League club who are looking for a trophy.

“There are a lot of good players in their team and hopefully we can see what happens.”

Bustin has made a big impression so far on his year-long loan from the Tigers.

He has plenty of experience of League One after previous stints with Oxford, London Skolars and Newcastle Thunder but feels the division has stepped up a level this season.

“It’s 100 per cent more competitive,” he added. “I know there are a lot of hit-ups but this year has changed because teams are doing what they want.

“There are a lot more teams in it (challenging). Last year there was probably three really competing for promotion whereas this time there’s a good six, seven or eight.

“Teams have made a lot of good signings and that can only make the competition better.”

The Bulls are one of three teams on 10 points alongside leaders Doncaster, who they travel to next week, and the Knights.

Bustin said: “It’s tight but as long as we win the important games from now on, we can edge ahead of them and make that gap a little bit bigger.

“It’s been going well so far and I’m enjoying it. Having players like Steve Crossley around me has been good and I’ve been learning off them.

“The boys have accepted me well. It’s quite easy to settle in with a lot of nice players.

“And the support is completely different to anything I’m used to. It’s been unbelievable.”

London-born Bustin harbours ambitions to play in Super League for his parent club and Cas boss Daryl Powell will be keeping tabs on how he gets on in elite company today against the Wolves.

“I’ve had a meeting with him that went well,” added Bustin. “There have been a good few bits of feedback from Castleford so we’ll see how it goes.

“But I’m enjoying playing here at the moment and let’s see what happens this season.”