Bradford Bulls sign Robson and Vulikijapani on loan

Like Warrington forward Robson, Fijian outside-back Vulikijapani has signed on an initial two-week deal – and both could feature at London on Sunday.

Vulikijapani, also known as “Mitch”, joined Hull before the start of the 2021 season - having previously served in the British Army as a Gunner in the 47 Regiment Royal Artillery.

He also boasts Premiership Rugby Union experience with Harlequins and Saracens.

“It is quite amazing here, the facilities are really impressive and big I am very happy to be here,” said Vulikijapani.

“I joined the Army in 2017 from Fiji, I was playing Rugby Sevens before that and then invited to play for Saracens and Harlequins in 2018 and then made the move to Hull this year.

“I am looking forward to getting out and working with John and Mark Dunning and seeing those Bradford supporters.”

John Kear expressed his excitement at the prospect of Vulikijapani donning the red, amber and black.

“He is a really promising player – Hull FC first took him on trial from the army and he impressed in that trial and featured against York in pre-season,” he said.

“We had a good look at him then and he has been waiting for an opportunity while Hull have started the season very well. So we contacted them and managed to bring him in.

“Hull are excited as he will get game time with us and I am excited as he will provide real quality in the three quarters.”

Robson, who can play either prop or in the back row, has recently been on loan from Warrington at Widnes.

Robson made seven Super League appearances for the Wolves in 2020 and has also had spells with Dewsbury and Rochdale.

The 22-year-old said: “I am really excited to be here – Bradford is a massive club I always followed them in my childhood and it is a really good opportunity for me to put some good performances in and work under John Kear.

“They are nice set of lads and a good group of players, so it is up to me to immerse myself into the culture at the club.

“I know a few of the lads here and I have experience of playing in the Championship too, it is a very physical league but I know you need to adapt your game depending on the opposition so hopefully my experience can help with that.

“I just want to play the best I can for the team and show what I can do, I am a hard-working player who carries hard and tackles hard and hopefully if I stay here longer we can push towards the play-offs.”

Ellis Robson has played seven Super League games for Warrington

Kear believes his versatility can play a major factor for the Bulls.

Kear said: “He’ll get out there and work hard, he can play either in the middles or on the edge and is pretty efficient at both.

“He is likely to come off the bench and I couldn’t ask for anyone better as that’s eight, 10, 11, 12, 13 all covered.

"If you feel you need energy off the bench and work you can get it from this kid, he is a very talented 22-year-old with Super League experience.

“I would like to thank the Warrington Wolves for making this deal possible.”