Bradford grateful for Solomona's reprieve

Bradford were relieved to hear last night that their accomplished forward, David Solomona, will miss just the first month of the new season, rather than most of the Super League campaign.

The Kiwi international was carried off during the friendly against Wigan on Sunday and it was feared that he had damaged his cruciate ligament, putting him out of action for six months. But a scan has shown that the damage is confined to his medial ligament and he could be back in six weeks.

"Whilst it is disappointing for the club and for David himself, it could be a lot worse," said Steve McNamara, the Bulls' coach.

The other main injury victim from that game, the newly-signed winger, Semi Tadulala, has been confirmed as suffering from a depressed fracture of the cheekbone. The former Wakefield man now faces a six-week spell on the sidelines.