Bulldogs v Sheffield Scimitars 2 - match preview

BIG TEST: Bulldogs’ player-coach, Dave Williams. Picture: Jason Devanney/View From Up Here Photography

BRADFORD BULLDOGS’ player-coach Dave Williams is expecting another tough challenge when his team entertain NIHL North Two rivals Sheffield Scimitars 2 this weekend. 

The Bulldogs go into the game on the back of two defeats having opened their 2026-27 campaign in style with a 7-4 home win over Kingston Sharks. 

But a 4-2 defeat at Coventry NIHL Blaze followed by last week’s 9-4 reverse at home to unbeaten leaders and reigning champions Sutton Sting have left the Bulldogs in need of points quickly to keep up with the leading teams. 

Sheffield are one of three teams unbeaten so far this season - long with Sutton and Coventry - winning all three of their games so far. 

Last year’s regular season runners-up arrive at Bradford Ice Arena fresh from a 9-2 home win over Nottingham Lions and Williams anticipates a fierce test of his team’s credentials against a team they failed to get the better of in three meetings last season. 

“Sheffield will present just as much of a challenge to us as Sutton did last week,” said Williams.

“They have made a good start to the season so far and again look like being one of the top teams in the league.

“We have ambitions of being up there alongside them so Sunday will provide another good marker as to where we’re at.”