Bradford Bulls will look to new half-back pairing Robbie Paul and Shaun Edwards to help them get back on the rails at Sheffield Eagles tonight.

Coach Matthew Elliott's hand is forced to some extent by the loss of skipper Graeme Bradley with a broken nose but many would regard the Paul/Edwards combination as the most likely way forward.

Close season capture Edwards has struggled to fit into the side after being introduced as a substitute in the opening two Super League games.

But with confidence not at its highest, especially after the 26-6 defeat by arch rivals Leeds, a dominant performance from the former Great Britain ace would provide the perfect lift.

Elliott has been thwarted by injuries but says: "The personnel on the field is not really the problem because they are all very capable players.

"What we need is to redirect our energies a little and build up confidence again and that will only come with results. In the meantime we have to work away even harder."

In the absence of Bradley and Danny Peacock (knee), who both see specialists today, Elliott has called up Abi Ekoku and Kevin Crouthers.

They are likely to battle it out for the right wing spot with Tevita Vaikona switched to his preferred centre position for the first time in his short Bulls career.

Sonny Nickle is battling for a starting spot in the pack against his former club after being found not guilty by the League's disciplinary committee following his dismissal against the Rhinos.

Eagles coach John Kear admits his players are suffering from "Wembley-itis" but is not unduly worried over his team's form as the May 2 clash with Wigan looms large.

"Getting to Wembley has had a massive effect because the players have not experienced it before," he said.

"But I'm not worried about our form because I thought against Castleford we played really well, it was just that they played better. I was pleased with the attitude, determination and commitment from my players."

Admission is free for under-16's on proof of identity.

lThe Bulls have received 3,000 standing tickets for the clash at Hull Sharks next Sunday. They will go on sale to season ticket holders tomorrow between 9.30am and 2.30pm. Fans should take their season tickets with them and sales will be restricted to one per book.

Any remaining will go on general sale from next Monday. Fans wishing to reserve seats for the game are asked to deal direct with Hull on 01482-329040.

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