Lee St Hilaire hopes a break from battle has refreshed bodies and minds at Odsal.

The Bulls were handed a rare free weekend as Super League was put on hold for the Challenge Cup semi-finals but return to action at St Helens on Friday.

“We had a couple of days off and have come back refreshed,” said Bradford’s acting head coach.

“It’s been a tough time and the days off that we’ve had should help rekindle the fires – not that the players should need motivating.

“It will have been good for them to get a little bit of time away from the club so their minds settle down and they come back with a positive attitude.”

The extra time between games has also been valuable in getting injured players back out on the pitch.

Brett Kearney could return against Saints after seeing an improvement in his foot problem, while Nick Scruton is back in full training following a knee ligament problem.

Jason Crookes is also in contention for a first-team spot after continuing his recovery from a knee injury with another run-out for the Under-20s during their win against Wakefield on Saturday.

“We’re not looking bad in terms of injuries.

“Crookes has a couple of games under his belt now and he’s looking good for it.

“Scrutes is not too far off. He’s back in training but we just need to pick up the pace with him in terms of collision work.

“The rest has helped Brett too. It’s done him good being off the foot and not feeling like he has to walk round the gym in front of the lads.”