Hornets take on Bradford Bulls in final game of the season

Photo: Mark Harris

Rochdale Hornets beat Bradford Bulls (and the conditions!) at Odsal early in the season

Rochdale Hornets’ 2017 season will come to an end on Sunday, when they travel to Odsal to take on Bradford Bulls in the final game of the season.

Despite defeat last week against Sheffield Eagles, Hornets have secured their place in the Championship for next year thanks to Swinton Lions’ victory over Oldham.

The same can not be said about Bradford though, as they could not overturn their 12 point deduction quick enough to avoid relegation.

With the pressure lifted though they have won four of their six Super Eight fixtures, including back-to-back victories over Sheffield and Dewsbury Rams.

Hornets have won just one of their Championship Shield fixtures, but were agonisingly close to beating Sheffield on Sunday.

In the two previous meetings with Bradford, Hornets have come out on top and completed a regular season double.

In round two they beat the conditions at a snow covered Odsal to record their first victory at the ground in 46 years, running out 22-14 winners.

Later in the season they met at The Crown Oil Arena, in a game which belonged to Jo Taira as the front rower scored twice in a 28-14 triumph.

With the pressure now off, Hornets have the opportunity to play with freedom without the threat of relegation.

If they can overcome Bradford and their good run of form, it would be the perfect end to a rollercoaster season, and will round off a memorable hat-trick of wins over their opponents.