NORTH Wales Crusaders have signed Bulls half back Matty Race on loan.

Race will link up with Ethan O’Hanlon, who has also spent the last month or so on a loan deal from Bradford.

The 20-year-old featured for the Bulls’ academy and reserve sides in 2019 and 2020, earning a first-team contract for 2021.

Bradford head coach John Kear has now allowed the half back to go out on loan and gain some more experience playing senior rugby league.

Speaking to the North Wales club website, Race said: “I’m buzzing and really looking forward to getting some game time.

“It’s a step up from what I’ve been playing so I’m hoping to improve as a player.

“Having Ethan there makes things easier as it’s always good to have a familiar face when you’re joining a new club.

“Crusaders have had some good results lately as beating Hunslet away is never easy.

“It’s a really exciting time for me and a new challenge that I can’t wait to take on.”

Race will be in contention for Crusaders’ trip to Castleford Tigers’ Mend-A-Hose Jungle to face Doncaster on July 25, before North Wales host West Wales Raiders in the Welsh derby at Stadiwm ZipWorld on August 1.