Brett Hodgson has praised the efforts of his young squad following yesterday’s pre-season friendly clash at Odsal Stadium, and explained that he got exactly what he wanted out of the game.
It was the Bulls who claimed victory in West Yorkshire, but FC’s youthful side showed a promising display with some stand-out individual performances in a squad featuring just four senior players over the age of 21.
Speaking after the match, Hodgson said: “I knew it was going to be tough – we sent a very young squad out there today but I thought the effort was outstanding.
“We saw what it takes to go up against hardened players who have been around a long time, but I’m proud of what I saw out there today.
“There were a few individual performances which caught the eye, and there’s a future in Rugby League for some of those players out there today.
“Davy Litten was solid at the back – the ground and the conditions here aren’t really a full-back’s stage for putting in a big performance.
“Charlie Severs was strong too – his effort was excellent and he ran some great lines for us.”
Hodgson also praised the efforts of lively half-back Callum Rutland, who scored two tries against John Kear’s side on an impressive first outing for the senior squad.
“Callum Rutland is in and out of some of the first team training, which is a real positive. He’s capable of playing at hooker and half-back, and he knows how to create opportunities for us. I was pleased with his efforts.”
Hodgson was also impressed with the efforts of captain Brad Fash, who got himself on the scoresheet.
“When I asked him, he had a smile come over his face. He’s a local boy and to captain the side meant a lot to him. He’s been here a long time and done a lot for this club. Some of his elements were outstanding today – he got a try and an assist and he led the way today.
“All four of our four senior boys were excellent too and led the way too – their performance showed their willingness to put the team first.”
He added: “It was pleasing to see such a low error count, especially in these conditions. We saw at moments, when their biggest boys came on, where our boys struggled to deal with that, and that is expected. That’s what it takes at this level and the experience will be invaluable to them going forward.
“Bradford had the upper hand, but it wasn’t about the result. “
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