JOHN Bateman has spoken the feeling of running out at Wembley in a Challenge Cup final – calling on the Bradford Bulls supporters to pack out Odsal and get behind the squad this weekend.

The Bradford-born star made his tournament debut the last time the club took on Halifax in cup action in 2011 – the Bulls winning a thriller 46-34.

The 25-year-old, now a Canberra Raiders talent in Australia’s NRL competition, featured in the 2017 Challenge Cup final with Wigan Warriors.

Knowing the importance and intensity of the Bradford-Halifax rivalry, the forward believes John Kear’s side will be raring to go this weekend.

Bateman said: “It is so important for the city and it is good for the club to be getting back to where it used to be.

“I made my Challenge Cup debut against Halifax in 2011 and it is a fantastic memory for me.

“Halifax are literally around the corner and it has always been a game you want to win, and I know the Bradford lads in amongst it will be well up for it.

“Pulling on the shirt and playing in the cup is what you dream about as a kid – I got the chance to run out at Wembley and it would have been even better to have won it.

“It is one of those games, just do not let it pass you by and enjoy every minute - the fans packed out Odsal just like the good old days and they made the difference against Leeds.

“Do what you need to do to win and give it your all because you might be sat there thinking what could have been."