BRADFORD Bulls Women fell to a narrow 18-6 defeat to Leeds Rhinos at Odsal Stadium despite a battling display in the curtain-raising clash.

The visitors enjoyed the stronger start and on the back of a spell of pressure on the Bradford line came the game’s first score.

A high, hanging kick towards the left edge landed in the hands of Fran Goldthorpe – the winger fending off a Bradford player to touch down in the corner.

The home side responded and enjoyed the better of the latter stages of the half and looked to have breached the Rhinos’ defence with seconds left to the hooter.

The ball was worked out wide to the left channel, where Sarah Dunn fed Leah Jones – whose try was denied by the awarding of a forward pass.

Bradford came out firing on all cylinders at the start of the second half and continued to pile the pressure on the Rhinos while holding firm in defence.

Dunn ran onto a short ball on the 30-metre line and looked destined to score but for a stunning scrambling tackle by Caitlin Beevers – the Leeds’ full-back.

A quick-fire double then stunned the hosts as Charlotte Booth and Keara Bennett both went over in succession.

Bradford were not to be deterred however and instantly reduced the arrears to reignite hopes of a comeback.

A slick move down the home side’s right saw Jones feed Bailey Alexander – the youngster diving over in the corner.

Alexander’s score proved to be the final score of a tight West Yorkshire derby, however, leaving Beth Sutcliffe and Kirsty Moroney’s side with no reward for their effort and endeavour.

Bradford Bulls Women: Chrissi Nettleton, Leah Jones, Savannah Andrade, Sarah Dunn, Bailey Alexander, Danielle Bose, Stacey Greenwood, Debbie Smith, Grace Ramsden, Paige Costello, Olivia Wood, Amy Hardcastle, Millie Taylor. Interchanges: Evie Kilburn, Lauren Hickey, Manina Spurr, Amy Boardman.

Tries: Alexander

Goals: Jones 1/1