A LARGE section of Bradford Bulls fans are up in arms after the shock news that experienced and popular centre Jake Webster has left the club to join neighbouring Keighley Cougars.
The T&A exclusively broke the story yesterday afternoon, with both clubs officially confirming the transfer a few hours later.
Webster was one of only 14 players contracted to Bulls, due to the club being placed in special measures, and was expected to be key to any promotion push from the Championship next season.
Only last month, speaking after Bradford's 30-10 win over Sheffield Eagles in Odsal's final bow, he seemed enthusiastic about his future at the club, saying: "I'll still be here next season, as long as my body and my wife let me."
That is no longer the case, and most Bulls fans have reacted with a mixture of fury and resignation, highlighted by the many comments below the club's official Twitter announcement of the news:
Will the last player left please switch off the lights
— According to Hoyle (@allezhoyley) October 8, 2019
Our best player going to a league 1 team. Shocking behaviour.
— Simon Webster (@simon8webster) October 8, 2019
Be interesting to see who they have in mind to “stake a claim for a place in the squad” as stated given we only have 13 players for next season currently and this is likely to drop further imminently #TellTheTruth
— Ian Brock (@brocky_5) October 8, 2019
An absolute joke Bradford let our best player go who actually added some power and impact should have moved heaven and earth to keep him at the club it’s a joke we should hang our heads in shame we aren’t even in a position to let players go when we recruit this is pathetic !!!
— Harry (@HJPM2001) October 8, 2019
You wont get a better player then jake
— karen norton (@castigertotty) October 8, 2019
On the T&A's Facebook page, Toby Rackham blasted: "Disgraceful how yet again we as fans have been deceived."
Meanwhile, Richard Jowett mused: "No disrespect to Keighley, but if he is choosing them over Bradford (who after all are in a league above) there is a tale to be told."
Under the article on our website, Paul From Idle said: "Better he jumps before being pushed. Bulls will be part time at best next year. If there is a next year."
However, it was not all doom and gloom, with BillyBobBull2 saying: "Good man Jake Webster. He is moving onwards and upwards.
"Looking to build RL in WY. He will do very well at Keighley and spare up a few thousand at Bulls for at least two great young lads. Good luck JW. Thank you.
"Please bring on LOTS of great young Bradford/Keighley lads to make the Bulls great again."
In contrast, people were queuing up to praise Keighley for their marquee signing.
Cougars' fellow League One side Workington Town tweeted: "Great signing. Our league is beginning to look even more competitive in 2020. We can’t wait."
Webster was a well-loved player at Castleford Tigers between 2013 and 2018, and their fans were quick to comment.
Simon Dwyer said: "Great player. Even better person. Up there with my favourite Cas player ever."
Meanwhile, Phil Thornton enthused: "Awesome signing, great player & great guy, @Cougarmania got one hell of a player for 2020 - watch this space!"
Bradford Bulls academy coach Michael Piper was feeling gracious, simply tweeting: "Unbelievable" followed by two clapping emojis.
The final word goes to Webster himself, who in an emotional Facebook post, wrote: "Would just like to thank the Bradford Bulls club for such an amazing year.
"I have some great memories to take with me and met some awesome people. Thanks to all the boys for the year it's been fun.
"Last but not least the fans who have supported this club no matter what. Please continue to do so. The clubs needs u now more then ever to help them back to their former glory days. Thanks for ur support. And good luck in the future Bradford Bulls."
"On to my next journey with Keighley Cougars. Thanks to club for this amazing opportunity to work/play for u. I'm really looking forward to the challenges ahead. Can't wait to get stuck in, bring on 2020."
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