DEWSBURY Rams chairman Mark Sawyer believes Sunday’s West Yorkshire derby against Bradford Bulls at Odsal Stadium has all the hallmarks of a classic derby battle.

Seventh hosts ninth in a mouthwatering clash – with both sides heading into the contest on the back of two successive wins.

Last time out, John Kear’s Bulls saw off Leigh Centurions in style, with Lee Greenwood’s Rams putting Featherstone Rovers to the sword on their own turf.

Sawyer admits their performances so far in 2019 leave them full of belief heading to Odsal this weekend, insisting Greenwood’s side will have no fear.

“The Yorkshire Cup game in January was incredibly close – we will be hoping for a similar contest and hopefully we can come out on the right end of the scoreline,” said Sawyer.

“Bradford are one of the biggest sides in the division and have a great squad and look like they are coming into a bit of form as well following a great win against Leigh.

“We are the underdogs there is no doubt about that. We haven’t won much at Odsal in recent history but we have nothing to lose and it is good to be in the mix and competing.

“We know we will have to play to a very high standard if we are to get the points but we want to make sure Bradford have to also do the same if they want the win.

“We are keen to get an important two points. Any win against a big club helps stretch us a bit further away from the relegation zone so there is a lot at stake already.

“Bradford are obviously looking for a top-five place so it's not just bragging rights at stake – these are two hugely important points.”

Dewsbury currently sit ninth in the Betfred Championship ladder and are buoyed by a recent 32-22 victory at much-fancied Featherstone last time out.

Strong performances against York City Knights and league leaders Toronto Wolfpack merited points but ultimately saw Greenwood’s side languishing towards the relegation zone early on.

Sawyer, however, is encouraged by performances in 2019 and pays tribute to the impact Greenwood has had on the side this term.

“We have been competitive all year and have been playing well, and it was good to get the win we deserved against Featherstone a couple of weeks ago,” said Sawyer.

“Featherstone are one of the top-half clubs we only managed a single point against last year so that win shows our progress.

“We brought in some new players and a new coaching team, while the younger players who have been given a chance have performed admirably as well.

“Our team spirit and facilities are helping us build on last year but we are not preparing for Sunday thinking it will be easy at all.

“Expectations are not as great on us. So we can focus on going to Odsal, being competitive and playing good rugby against a really strong side.

“Because of the spirit we have and the performances we have produced against the likes of Toronto and Featherstone, we head there with no fear.”