Giants boss Tony Smith is backing the Bulls to do the double this season.

The Aussie coach watched his side routed 52-6 by an understrength Bradford side at the McAlpine Stadium last night and admits they are the best team they have taken on since returning to Super League.

Brian Noble's men ran in nine tries in an awesome display of strength with a Robbie Paul hat-trick helping them to their 12th straight victory.

"I thought they were outstanding," said Smith, whose side were only saved from a whitewash by a 77th-minute Julian Bailey converted try.

"They have not been so potent in recent weeks but they sure got it together today.

"We've played all the teams except Widnes and Bradford are my favourites to take the title. I haven't seen anything to indicate otherwise. They are a pretty well-oiled machine.

"Hats off to them. They were outstanding in attack and in defence."

The victory means Bradford will take over at the top of Super League if they beat the Rhinos in next Friday's mouthwatering Challenge Cup re-run at Odsal.

Although Noble may have some injury concerns ahead of that vital clash, with Paul Deacon (eye), Tevita Vaikona (back), Lesley Vainikolo (ankle and dead leg) and Rob Parker (ankle) all picking up injuries in the one-sided affair.

But strength in depth is not a problem for the Bulls, as they proved against the Giants, with the side able to notch up their biggest league win of the season without the services of four regular starters.

Jimmy Lowes was rested and Bradford also coped without the suspended Leon Pryce and injury victims Mick Withers and Stuart Fielden.

Aaron Smith, just 20, made a super debut at hooker while Stuart Reardon was sensational filling in at full back when Robbie Paul moved to scrum half to cover for the injured Paul Deacon.

Karl Pratt excelled covering for Pryce at stand-off while Lee Radford managed ten points while taking over kicking duties.