Cash-strapped Bulls are a threat (From Warrington Guardian)

Bradford Bulls' financial troubles could mean danger for Warrington Wolves

12:00pm Friday 20th April 2012 in Wolves news By Christopher Terris Taylor

MIKE Cooper believes the financial difficulties faced by Warrington Wolves’ Challenge Cup fifth round opposition Bradford Bulls will make them an altogether more dangerous opposition when they arrive at The Halliwell Jones Stadium on Saturday, April 28, kick off 2.40pm.

Wolves have already battled to a narrow victory over Bulls at Odsal this term, but recent revelations from the club – which is currently looking for the second £500,000 of the £1million needed in order to prevent a winding up order – could turn the Bulls into a cornered animal as they fight desperately for the revenue a decent cup run would provide.

“I would imagine that off the field as well as on it, Bradford need the cup,” said Cooper, who started at loose forward in Wolves’ 23-10 win over Bulls in March.

“They need a good cup run, as that would help to keep the club afloat.

“If there was ever a way of strengthening the incentive of winning a cup game that is it.

“They probably need to do as well as they possibly can and that will make them a more dangerous proposition when it comes to one-off knockout rugby.”

It will be a repeat of the 2010 quarter final when Wolves travelled to Odsal and grabbed a 26-22 victory on their way to recording their second consecutive cup success.

Bulls have been improving on the field as their finances have continued to flounder, defeating Leeds Rhinos and Widnes Vikings over the Easter period before putting 72 points on Doncaster to progress to the fifth round.

Wolves were troubled by injuries in that match at Odsal earlier in the year and are likely to be stronger this time around.

“They have been blowing hot and cold this year, but we had a tough game at Odsal earlier this season and anything can happen in cup games,” said Cooper.