Bulls coach Matthew Elliott has thanked the fans for their enthusiastic backing in the build-up to Super League V.

There were concerns in some circles after the Challenge Cup tie with Huddersfield-Sheffield Giants attracted a crowd of only 6,500 but Elliott says the level of support he and his players have received so far rivals that when they won Super League in 1997.

"I would just like to thank those people who turned up in atrocious conditions last weekend," he said. "It really was an appalling day to be stood out in the open.

"I have also had a lot of mail saying how much the fans are behind us and the website has been full of messages of support too. I would just like to thank everyone and let them know just how much it means to the players and myself."

Meanwhile, Ilkley-based RBR Insurance Group are to be Bradford Bulls' associate sponsors for the next two years. Their managing director Mark Minton has become Bulls' first corporate ambassador, using his relationship with the business community to enhance the club's profile.

The new link will see the RBR logo displayed on the collar of the Bulls' shirt and the firm will continue their sponsorship of the mascots.

Tickets for Sunday's Challenge Cup fifth round tie at Wakefield Trinity went on general sale at Odsal today.

The match is not all-ticket but Bulls fans are being advised to purchase tickets in advance. Belle Vue has a capacity of 10,000.

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