IT was a nightmare return to Super League action for Bulls' Women yesterday, as they were crushed 86-0 by a mighty St Helens performance.

A youthful Bradford side almost held out for 10 minutes, before the floodgates opened spectacularly.

Former Bulls centre and England international Amy Hardcastle went over for a hat-trick of tries for Saints, while Carrie Roberts and Jodie Cunningham also grabbed three apiece.

As well as scoring a try of her own, Faye Gaskin kicked 11 of her 16 goal attempts.

Bulls won the inaugural Women's Super League in 2017, but struggled to get near those heights in the following two years.

Yesterday's result was a blow, but they will hope to compete more as the season progresses.

Bulls are next in action against Wigan Warriors in a fortnight's time.