Bradford Bulls upset Castleford Tigers 18-16 in Challenge Cup

In a thrilling upset, Championship side Bradford Bulls defeated the Super League team Castleford Tigers 18-16 in the third round of the Challenge Cup. The Bulls established a commanding 17-0 lead by halftime with tries from James Donaldson and Matty Gee, alongside a pivotal drop-goal from Joe Keyes. Castleford rallied in the second half, narrowing the score to 17-12, but ultimately fell short when Tex Hoy's last-minute conversion attempt went wide after he scored a try. This defeat marked Castleford's second exit from the Challenge Cup at the hands of Bradford in seven years. Bradford's strong defensive performance and strategic play under head coach Brian Noble allowed them to secure this historic victory. The win was celebrated by the Bulls, who expressed pride in knocking out a Super League side at home.