MARK Dunning insists the Bulls have put their Newcastle nightmare behind them as they look towards Odsal redemption.

The 53-10 thrashing from the Thunder at Kingston Park attracted heavy criticism among fans – and led to some serious soul-searching within the squad.

But Dunning is confident that heads have been cleared to restore some wounded pride at home to London on Saturday.

The Bulls coach said: “We’ve scrutinised it and it’s going to be put to bed quickly.

“I don’t think the season was ever off the road. It’s a bad performance that’s been highlighted by being on national television.

“Everyone has accepted their responsibility – and know that it was unacceptable.

“The key message here is that this team and these players don’t become bad people or bad players overnight.

“We’ve looked at it, addressed it and now we move on.”

The Bulls have shipped over 100 points in their last two outings to drift in the play-off race – and now sit five points off sixth-placed Barrow.

Dunning, who took charge permanently of the team for the first time at Kingston Park, added: “I think that lost in all this Newcastle were terrific on the evening. They played really well.

“Yes, there was some emotion behind their performance. But there’s emotion behind every rugby league performance as well.

“Newcastle were very good on the day, we were very bad – and that’s what happens when those things arise.”

Matty Dawson-Jones is in contention to return to the squad following his hamstring injury. Chester Butler is also getting closer.