The injury ravaged Bradford Bulls squad was further depleted today when centre Matt Calland was sidelined for the climax of the Super League campaign.

The former England three-quarter has been troubled for the last two seasons with a persistent back problem and has made several comeback attempts this term.

But coach Matthew Elliott admitted today: "It looks as though we will have to accept defeat on Matt for this season.

"It has been a very frustrating time for both Matt and the club because he has seen four or five different specialists and there have been many differences of opinion as to the route of the problem.

"The latest says he may even be suffering from a stress fracture. It might be that a long rest in the close season will do the trick but it is obviously a concern."

The news continues the horrendous season of injury problems for the Bulls who have now lost top try scorer Tevita Vaikona, hard-running second-rower Sonny Nickle and Calland in the last seven days as the side battles to clinch fifth spot and a place in the play-off series.

Prop Brian McDermott has played on despite persistent knee trouble recently and depending on resources could rest him against Warrington at Odsal on Sunday.

Meanwhile Super League have confirmed that the elimination semi-final, which on current standings would see the Bulls visit St Helens, will be played on Friday, October 2.

Saints have already earned themselves a week off in anticipation by switching their final game at home to Sheffield Eagles to Friday, September 5 - even though it will not be featured on Sky Television.

The Bulls have decided against switching their meeting with Salford that weekend as there seems every chance that it will be the live match on Sunday night. The Bulls fifth spot rivals London's visit to Castleford has been pencilled in as the Friday game.

The Bulls are holding their second annual Girls Rugby League Festival at 10am on Saturday, September 26, at Bradford Salem's Rugby Union ground in Heaton.

The Festival is a development initiative offering the opportunity for new and established girl's clubs to play Rugby League in a competitive 11-a-side format.

Last season's festival was considerable success, with many more girls consequently wanting to play.

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