Joe Bullock made a memorable return to Barrow Raiders as his late try helped down Betfred Championship big-hitters Bradford Bulls 24-22 in a pulsating Round 15 clash at the Northern Competitions Stadium.

While the visitors struck first through Jayden Okunbor as they went in search of a win which would see them draw level at the top of the Championship table, the Raiders responded quickly with the standout try of the afternoon.

Having shifted the ball through hands down the right, Luke Cresswell eventually found Ryan Johnston on the inside and the half-back dived over to finish off an incredible team try.

It would get even better for Paul Crarey’s side, who led by six at half-time as Matt Costello crashed onto a short ball from Josh Wood and couldn’t be stopped close to the line.

Six minutes into the second half, it became 18-6 as outside back Shane Toal collected Johnston’s high kick after a mistake at the back from Bradford and finished under the posts, recording his fourth try in two games since returning to the side.

However, the Bulls hit a 20-minute purple patch and turned the game on its head, Tom Holmes and Ronan Michael drawing the teams level at 18-18 before Waqa Blake squeezed over in the corner to put Bradford in front.

That try looked like consigning the Raiders to a third straight home defeat, until front-rower Bullock – making his first appearance for the club since returning from Salford Red Devils on dual-registration – crashed under the posts three minutes from time.

With the scores level at 22-22, Johnston added the extras to give the Raiders the lead, and although the Bulls had one more set in the Raiders’ half, resolute defending saw them off and ensured the home side would hang on to complete a league double against one of the heavyweights of the division.

The Raiders will look to build on Sunday’s win when they travel to Featherstone Rovers this weekend. Tickets are available to buy here.

BARROW RAIDERS 24

Tries: Johnston, Costello, Toal, Bullock

Goals: Johnston 4

BRADFORD BULLS 22

Tries: Okunbor, Holmes, Michael, Blake

Goals: Lilley 3

Paul Crarey reaction

Want to be in with a chance of winning our £25,000 jackpot? Click here to join the Raiders Lottery!