Bulls crowd favourite Joe Vagana hopes to celebrate winning a new one-year deal with victory over Castleford Tigers tonight.

The giant Kiwi put pen to paper on the contract yesterday, ending speculation about his future at Odsal.

Vagana had been linked with a move to Wigan when his present deal runs out in November but boss Steve McNamara has moved swiftly to ensure the long-serving prop continues his odyssey in Bradford.

"It is like home from home now," said the New Zealand star, 31. "I've been here for six years and I want to finish off at this club. I've lots of good memories with the Bulls and I'm hoping for a few more now before I do pack in.

"We need a win tonight for starters. We're both coming in off losses and it's going to be a tough game for us.

"Cas showed last time, when they got a draw, what they can do.

"They are fighting for survival and we're fighting for the best possible finish before the play-offs."

Vagana joined Bradford from Auckland Warriors in 2001 and has proved a massively valuable signing.

The big-hitting forward has made 187 appearances, won three Grand Finals, two World Club Challenge titles and the Challenge Cup, establishing himself as a Bulls legend.

However, he will be 32 when next season starts and so has had to work hard to prove he is worth the new deal.

Vagana has done that with a series of commanding displays lately, including a storming performance in the Bulls' last home game against Warrington Wolves.

Everything suggests there is plenty left in the tank for the ever-smiling character who has been a tireless servant to the Bradford cause.

McNamara said: "Joe is very, very important to the club in what he does both on and off the field. His form has been outstanding in recent weeks and since the departure of Stuart Fielden.

"I think he has really stepped up and we are pleased to have him back on board for next year."

Vagana said: ""It would have been hard to leave but it's a cruel world. Guys that have been here ten years had to go last season and it's part of rugby league.

"I'm just glad I've been given the opportunity.

"My kids have grown up here in Bradford and I'm glad we're staying."

And the 25-Test capped veteran hasn't ruled out carrying on into 2008.

"Never say never," Vagana laughed. "I'm 29 next year so I'll be hoping for another five-year deal after that!

"As long as I'm enjoying it and going well and as long as someone wants me I could go for another.

"Seeing Stan (Gene), Chris (McKenna) and Marcus (Bai) playing into their latter stages is really inspiring me, so why not?!"