TONY Smith believes Bradford Bulls’ off-field problems have instilled a lot of character in their current charges.

Francis Cummins’ side were docked points before the season began after entering administration, but marched into the Tetley’s Challenge Cup quarter-finals when coming from 16-0 down to beat Catalan Dragons.

They were hammered 84-6 at Wigan Warriors a week earlier and Smith was impressed with the character they showed to recover from that loss.

“We’re going to have to match that character in terms of ability and performance,” said Warrington Wolves’ head of coaching and rugby.

“If we can match them in those regards I think we’ll be ok, if we’re under done in any of those things they’ve shown they can beat good teams.

“They bounced back didn’t they, they were 16-0 down and they showed their spirit. I think with some of what’s gone on that’s been a big part of their ability to bounce back from adversity.

“The week before was probably their low point for some time in terms of performances, but they responded and they probably came under some undue criticism as well.

“As a group of people they responded well and it shows their character and it shows they’ve got a lot of it.”