SAM Hallas admits he and his team-mates are targeting consistency as the Bulls approach the final third of the season – the hooker believing the side will benefit from players returning from injury.

The 22-year-old featured in the 24-20 defeat of rivals Halifax RLFC, which saw John Kear’s side close the gap on the top five play-off places.

March’s trip to the Halton Stadium to tackle tomorrow’s opponents, Widnes Vikings, saw the Bulls edged out in controversial circumstances.

Elliot Minchella’s disallowed try on the hooter halted a stunning comeback and Bradford star Hallas insists his side will "have to be on our mettle" to avoid a repeat result.

“Widnes are a good side – it was a close one when we played them away but ultimately we lost it and we owe them one so hopefully we can get the win,” said Hallas.

“They have had some indifferent form of late but they have some real good talent – Anthony Gelling, Danny Craven, Josh Ganson from Wigan, they have quality across the board.

“We need to be on our mettle but we are quietly confident – I feel we have come through that blip and come out the other side playing close to our potential.

“Now we need to be consistent and that comes from the way we conduct ourselves on and off the field. An 80-minute performance comes from all the ‘one-percenters’ during the week.

“All season we have trained hard and put a real emphasis on defence but we cannot fall in love with ourselves yet. There is some real quality to come.

“But we are getting numbers back at the right time. They will all add something to us and hopefully we can make a run at this top five – that is why we are here.”