NO matter how many times he returns to Odsal as an opposition coach, Brian McDermott will always hold legendary status among Bulls fans.

The 49-year-old is synonymous with the club's golden era.

He made 251 appearances for Bradford Northern and Bulls between 1994 and 2003, also playing for bot Great Britain and England during thjis period.

The prop, who bring his Betfred Championship table-toppers Toronto Wolfpack to Odsal tomorrow, had a glittering career in a Bradford jersey.

The one-club man won nine honours during his illustrious playing career with Bradford.

The roll call reads; three Super Leagues, in 1997, 2001 and 2003, two Challenge Cups, in 2000 and 2003, three league leaders shields in 1999, 2001 and 2003.

But arguably his best achievement for Bulls was being part of the side which won the 2002 World Club Challenge against the NRL's Newcastle Knights.

The night when Bulls were on top of the world saw them grab a 41-26 victory over the Australians at the then-named McAlpine Stadium, Huddersfield, on February 1, 2002.

Bulls' tries came courtesy of Michael Withers (2), Robbie Hunter-Paul (2), Lesley Vainikolo and Daniel Gartner, as Bulls beat a Knights side packed with stars of the day including Andrew Johns and Danny Buderus.

McDermott's Bulls won the right to play in that prestigious clash after beating Wigan Warriors 37-6 in front of 60,164 fans at Old Trafford in the 2001 Super League Grand Final.

This Bulls side featured a list of stars no doubt Bulls fans will always be able to reel off. These included Leon Pryce, Jamie Peacock and James Lowes.

Despite the numerous victories, the former Royal Marine also suffered final heartache, losing the 1996 Challenge Cup final to St Helens and the Super League Grand Final to the same opposition three years later.

Retiring as a player in 2003, he has enjoyed a similar glittering career as a coach with Harlequins, Leeds Rhinos, the USA and now in Canada.

But to Bulls fans he will always be Big Mac.

Speaking in January this year, before the Championship season kicked off, McDermott revealed his enduring love for the Odsal outfit.

He said: The game is better with the Bradford Bulls as one of the top teams.

"What John Kear has done on and off the field is bring some real stability to the club."