James can be a Koppy-cat

6:50am Thursday 13th November 2008

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Bulls’ Matt James sees his loan spell at Halifax as the start of his Super League career not the end.

The prop heads to the National League One club on a season-long deal in 2009 but believes it is just what is needed to develop his game.

Last season Koppy went to Halifax and gained loads of experience...and hopefully it will do the same for me

Matt James

James, 21, played only nine times for Bradford this year, mainly for short spells off the bench, and hadn’t featured since June as he continued to struggle for consistency.

But fellow front-rower Craig Kopczak previously joined their neighbours for a loan spell and came back to establish himself as an Odsal regular.

Now James hopes his switch can have the same effect.

“Last season Koppy went to Halifax and gained loads of experience,” he said.

“There was tell-tale signs of his improvement and everyone noticed he got a big boost out of it.

“He’s had good raps on Halifax from what he gained there and hopefully it will do the same for me.

“I think it’s a great opportunity while there’s no doors closed here at Bradford either whatsoever.

“That’s my understanding with the staff and I still see myself – no disrespect to Halifax – as a Super League player.

“Steve (McNamara) has talked to me and said if I start tearing up trees over there he can recall me.

“I do still see my future here at Bradford but it’s a big year and I’m knuckling down to make the most of everything.”

James’ Bulls contract is up at the end of 2009 so he realises personally it is a vital campaign.

With England duo Sam Burgess and Andy Lynch and Leeds Rhinos Grand Final-winner Nick Scruton now on board, and Kopczak also in the mix, the fight for spots is intense – even given Joe Vagana’s retirement, Chris Feather’s move to Castleford and a planned deal for Parramatta enforcer Fuifui Moimoi breaking down.

Rangy forward James came through the