BRADFORD Bulls legend Brian Noble has urged fans to “keep the faith” as the club looks to pull off the great escape and retain its Championship status.

The 56-year-old became the most successful coach in Super League history during a glittering six-year spell in charge of the Bulls from 2000 to 2006. Under Noble, who also played for Bradford during two separate spells, the club won three World Club Challenges, three Super League Grand Finals, two League Leaders Shields, and a Challenge Cup.

He was given the Freedom of the City by Bradford Council in 2006, and was also awarded an MBE in last week’s Queens Birthday Honours List for his services to rugby league and charity.

On the Bulls current on-field plight, he said: “They started the season really well, they’re just lacking a bit of confidence. It just needs something to galvanise things. The passion and effort is there, and it must be frustrating for everyone.

“They battered the line against Rochdale, but just couldn’t get over. But, back in 1996 when we were going into the Super League, we had to take small steps, and it’s the same now. It’s a massive club, and it will be again. I just hope the people there have that masterplan in their minds.”

With just 12 games left, the Bulls remain marooned on minus two points, and last week, the Telegraph & Argus joined the club and sponsor Provident to ‘Back the Bulls’ in a bid to help roar the team to safety.

Oldham visit Odsal on Sunday, and Noble, now director of rugby for Toronto Wolfpack, said the support of Bulls fans would be vital.

He said: “I’m still a huge fan, and while people will remember these dark times, people need to stick together now. I have known Bulls fans since I was 15, they have always been there, and they will always be there. The ambition has to be top-flight rugby again, and it will happen. My message would be to keep the faith.

“It is easy to talk negatively, but the key is to stay positive, and it will change if people believe and hang on to that dream. It might just be one tackle or carry that turns things around, and then things will improve in spades, I really believe that.”