Bulls coach James Lowes hasn’t mentioned the dreaded ‘R’ word ahead of the game that could seal Bradford’s Super League fate.

Defeat at the Giants tomorrow will confirm the Bulls’ relegation from the top flight.

But even though all the Super League talk leading up to the derby clash is about the prospect of the Bulls going down, Lowes and his players have been focusing all their attention on preparing to give it their best shot against a Huddersfield side who have thrashed them twice already this season – 66-18 at Odsal in March and 54-16 at Magic Weekend in May.

“We haven’t mentioned relegation at all,” said former Warrington boss and Great Britain hooker Lowes, who took over as head coach of the Bulls from Francis Cummins three weeks ago

“To be honest, I didn’t see any reason to mention it. Our aim is to focus on the game and let everything else take care of itself.

“If we are relegated then we’ll deal with that on Monday morning. If we get a stay of execution then we’ll go onto Wigan and deal with that.

“But we’re focused on the game and playing against a very good Huddersfield Giants side, and anything that happens post-game will be dealt with after that.

“And whatever happens, I’m sure the players will give it their best shot.

“You should always play for pride, whether you’re at the top or the bottom. It’s something we speak about - having that little bit of self pride.

“We’ve trained well this week, and although it may be too little, too late, the players are showing some great attitudes in training.

“Unless the boys are going to retire, they’re still in the professional game, and they have to have the right attitude in case someone is looking at you for next season.”

Tomorrow’s clash will also be the first time Lowes will do battle with Giants chief and fellow Bradford Bulls teammate Paul Anderson in a head coach’s duel.

And Lowes is relishing the meeting with a close rugby league colleague.

“I wouldn’t say me and Baloo were on each other’s Christmas list, but the wives do exchange cards!” he added.

“But we get on with each other and we still see each other, and I’m sure if there was ever a reunion we’d both be there.

“When you move between rugby clubs you build up a core of friends that you keep in touch with throughout your career. I’ve got a lot of friends but there’s only my dog which is my best friend!

“And as well as being a mate, Baloo’s also a professional bloke.

“The Giants had a fantastic season last year and they’re in a good position again. Unfortunately for us, I know Baloo will put and Bradford sentiment aside tomorrow, because his teams’s got to finish as high as possible to maintain their challenge.”

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