JOHN Kear says his Bradford Bulls created a very special day for the club after booking their Coral Challenge Cup quarter-final place with a shock win over rivals Leeds Rhinos.

A bumper crowd of 10,258 erupted at the hooter as Bulls secured a memorable 24-22 victory over coach less Leeds in the sixth round.

Kear heaped praise on all his squad, including those not picked in the matchday 17.

He said this derby win in the first meeting between the two sides since 2014 shows Bulls are on their way back.

Kear said: “The playing group were magnificent.

“All of that group were in Toronto last week, I thought they rested and recovered well to make it a very special day all round today.

“They are a young team but a good team. They were under the cosh but found something extra.

“I’m delighted for the owner and for the fans, as they have had thin and thinner times recently.

“Today is a very special day indeed.

“It was absolutely fantastic in the dressing room afterwards.

“We are in sport for days like today and outcomes like today.

“We were confident we were going to play well. Fortunately, that was enough. We played at eight-and-a-half today.

“It is a very special day for everyone involved and a very big day for this club.

“It’s outstanding.

“It sent a signal that we are coming back, as Super League is the goal. “