MARK Dunning insists the Bulls’ current slump will not get him down.

Dunning has faced a tough baptism as permanent coach and tomorrow’s trek to Barrow followed by the Summer Bash derby with Halifax suggest things will not get any easier.

The rookie boss has the support of Brian Noble, back at Odsal in a consultancy basis, and stressed they will come through it.

Dunning said: “That’s our job. There’s no qualms or complaints about that – it’s what we are in a job to do.

“Brian’s always going to be helpful because of his vast experience and knowledge.

“He’s part of the organisation now along with the other staff like Leigh Beattie. We’re all in it together.

“There’s a job to do and we’re well aware of it. It’s a big job but the process is underway and we’re confident we will get there.”

Beating Barrow, who are seven points better off, represents the last realistic chance of sneaking into the top six. But Dunning says the focus is purely on stopping the rot from three successive defeats.

“The immediate aim is about getting our people to be more resilient and not play insular at the first sign of adversity.

“How do we get them to express themselves again? We’re looking at us and we’ll let the table and everything around take care of itself.

“It’s about us being the best version of Bradford Bulls we can be, putting a smile back on some faces and getting the confidence back again.”

Former Bull Jarrod Sammut hammered a last-gasp drop-goal to clinch Barrow’s victory in a 23-22 thriller at Odsal in April.

The Raiders are in peak form having won five of the last six games to strengthen their play-off place. They also gave runaway leaders Leigh a fright at Craven Park before going down by two points.

Dunning added: “It’s not surprised me at all. They are a good team and well coached by Paul Crarey.

“They’ve spent a few bob as well so I always expected Barrow to be in and around the mix and they haven’t disappointed anybody.

“It’s a big challenge for us but one that everybody is looking forward to.

“Any trip to Cumbria is tough. You’re never going to get an easy game up there.

“We’re well aware of what that brings and the threats and challenges we’ll face. But we’re looking to put things right at the weekend.

“Any game is a good fixture to go into. We’re not here to be millionaires, we all love the game.

“The best fixtures are the ones after some adversity so you can measure yourselves and see where you’re at.

“Rugby league is a pretty honest game. If you’re on it and fully committed, then you’ve as good a chance as anybody.

“If for any reason, any team turns up not 100 per cent on their game then any result can happen. You see that across every level.”