JOHN Kear will welcome back Steve Crossley with open arms as the Bulls chase the win that could cement their play-off place.

Kear admitted the skipper was a huge loss in the stodgy 30-26 win over Swinton.

Crossley was forced to self-isolate for that game but returns to lead the Bulls again for Sunday’s first trip to York’s new home.

“Steve’s absence last week was a case of you don’t know what you’ve got until it’s gone,” said Kear.

“He really did demonstrate how much we missed him, not only what he does as a player on the field but he’s a bit of a talisman for us.

“I’m absolutely delighted that he will have the captain’s shirt once again and be out leading through deed as he does so well.”

It was the first Championship game that the Bulls stalwart had missed since July 2019 against the same opponents.

He left a big hole after a poor display against the relegated Lions which Kear described as “dodging a bullet”.

The Bulls coach added: “He’s very durable, he’s one of those players who you can rely on week in, week out.

“I like the fact that when you write his name on the team sheet you can forget about him. I know what he’s going to bring to the party.

“You worry with some players about whether it’s going to be an eight out of 10 or a four. But Steve’s very consistent and you know what he’ll dish up.

“He’s been there, done it and got the t-shirt so it will be really exciting to see what he does bring this week.

“Although he’s been in isolation, he’s had a training programme so he’s up to pace.”