RYAN Hunkin says "disrespectful" comments about West Bowling will provide further motivation for the coming season.

Bowling's appetite for the derby at neighbours Bradford Dudley Hill was questioned by rival team manager Steve Wright following the 36-12 win by the hosts.

Wright reckoned that the younger Wests players didn't have the same passion to earn bragging rights over their neighbours that his more experienced charges had.

But Bowling coach Hunkin said Wright had done him a favour in planning his team talks for the rest of campaign.

READ MORE: Wright claims West Bowling lacked heart in derby

Hunkin said: "A lack of passion? These lads went to Queens, Upton, Fryston. Now this was three or four years ago, but the same players went over and caused upsets there.

"Against tough opposition, physical opposition and not always the cleanest of teams, but there's not a chance in hell these lads lack heart, I think that's pretty disrespectful."

The coach admits his side didn't really get going in the game, but is certain there's more to come from a Bowling side who are young at their core.

On the derby against Hill, Hunkin said: "They outplayed us on the day, I'm not going to take anything from them, end of, they won the game.

"We were pretty nervous, it was a big occasion, but we'll be better for it. We are a young side, as Steve's pointed out, but we'll be better for that experience.

"To say we lack heart, I think he's just more or less planned my team talks for the rest of the year, so thanks for that Steve."