JOHN Kear has called for his players to produce a response in Sunday’s Armed Forces day clash with Halifax RLFC – speaking of his pride at being a part of what promises to be a ‘great occasion’.

The Bradford boss could welcome back Jy Hitchcox and Joe Keyes back into the side following long-term lay-offs with a shoulder and back injury respectively.

Sunday represents the fifth time the sides do battle in 2019, with two wins apiece including Bradford’s Yorkshire Cup win in January.

With both teams four points shy a play-off position, Kear is all too wary of a 'Fax backlash following their recent form.

He said: “In times like this you look for a focus and intensity in the players and we have seen that this week – but we want some consistency now and we don’t just want a one game bounce back.

“We want to look back and think it was tough to take but was for the good of the group and every game is a must win and Halifax are of course one of our rivals.

“You have to change the game plan when you play a team so much in one season you don’t do the same things and you will see a different game plan from us this weekend.

“They are a good side and they will be looking to resurrect their season somewhat and they are dangerous with plenty of strike and toughness – it should be an intriguing, close contest.

“Sunday will be a great occasion and when you talk about adversity, you look at what some of the Armed Forces have gone through – they are really tough and that is having to deal with adversity.

“You put circumstances into perspective and I am very proud to be a part of this day and I hope we make it a success because I am very proud of them.”