Halifax prop Jim Gannon reckons the Bulls may be ripe for a fall in Sunday’s Challenge Cup fourth-round tie.

Gannon believes Bradford are vulnerable after a run of five games without a win, despite his own side’s recent struggles.

Fax have lost six of their opening seven Championship games but the former Huddersfield and Hull KR man sees no reason why they can’t supply a shock at the Shay.

“We have the potential to perform and we’ve some really talented players who can give every side a good run,” he said. “Bradford are in a poor run of form currently so hopefully we can rise to the occasion and spring a surprise on them.

“A win would be massive for the club. The rivalry between the fans is fierce but they haven’t had the chance to go against each other in recent years so we’ll be looking to impress in front of our crowd.”

Gannon has never beaten Bradford throughout his 12 years in England.

The Aussie is now in his second spell at Fax after initially joining them from Balmain in 1999 and is fired up for a first Shay derby in eight years.

“Of all the teams I’ve come up against in England, Bradford are the only side I’ve never won against,” he said.

“I was involved in a draw with them at The Shay a few years ago now but I never managed to beat them, so that’s a huge motivational factor for me personally.

“I’m really looking forward to the game. They are our local rivals and it will be great to play against them again.

“I have played against them quite a few times in my career so it’ll be nice to do that again and there’s going to be a bumper crowd so hopefully it will be a great day.

“I used to get really pumped up to face Stuart Fielden when he was at the Bulls and now I’m looking forward to going up against Andy Lynch.

“Then there’s also Shad Royston who played here last season and I’m sure there will be some bragging rights to play for between him and the other lads here at the club, so it should be a tasty afternoon on the field.”

Tickets for the Carnegie Challenge Cup fourth round contest between Halifax and Bradford Bulls at The Shay Stadium cost from £15.50 adult, £10.50 concessions and £5.50 juniors and can be purchased by calling 01422 342792.