WHAT was supposed to be a training game for Bradford against lowly Calne turned out to be a bone crunching and thrilling encounter.

Calne simply did not follow the script and field a near full strength team for the first time in nearly two seasons.

Bradfordstarted the stronger as they applied the early pressure. They were soon rewarded by an superb individual effort from their full back and it looked as if it would be an easy day at the office for the visitors.

But Calne put any hopes of a rout to bed when the pack got their hands on the ball and took control.

On the stroke of half time Alan Wicks started a rolling maul towards the try line and Ian Smart scrambled the ball over.

The second half began with more Calne pressure but Bradford survived and began to come back into the game.

Calne gave away a series of penalties that gave the visitors the chance to extend their lead to six points.

Calne came back again though and went close to scoring again but Bradford's greater strength and fitness saw them home.

Calne's next game is a relegation clash at Supermarine in two weeks time.