Smarting from their shock defeat at Askam last weekend, Barrow Island face fellow promotion hopefuls West Bowling at Rating Lane in National Conference League Division Two tomorrow.

Their automatic promotion hopes took a jolt with that unexpected loss, but other results went in Island's favour, Bowling and leaders Ince Rose Bridge both lost at home.

Coach Joe Elliott, who had other commitments, missed the defeat at Fallowfield Park but took no credit away from the Villagers.

”I was unable to be at Askam but from all accounts they deserved their win and we deserved to lose," said Elliott.

"Fortunately Rose Bridge and Bowling lost but we cannot really afford many losses in the run up for promotion. We could miss out on going up automatically, so we'll aim for the play offs."

Island lost the away clash in Bradford 36-16 their highest defeat of the campaign but on home soil they are unbeaten and will look to build upon their success at Rating Lane.

Back in contention are Joe Mallinson, Spencer Hoyland, Josh Banham and Dan White, while Ryan Clegg and Callum Nelson could be added if they overcome late fitness tests.

Also smarting from another home defeat are Millom in Division Three they went down 20-24 to a last-minute try against Batley Boys on their first-ever visit to Devonshire Road.

The Woolybacks are on home soil once with Leigh East the visitors, who are ten points ahead of the them.

Though disappointed with the defeat, coach Tom Sibley was not too downhearted, saying: "I was very happy with the performance, just unhappy to lose in the final seconds.

"We competed throughout but just slackened off in the final minute - just 20 seconds left on the clock.

Back in contention this week are experienced campaigners Rickie Dongahue, Chris Warren and Ross Brooks. Out is Dane Kelly, while late tests await Tom Newbiggin and Owen Myers.

Sibley added: “Batley were a good side but we matched them, we are not that far away we have worked really hard in training this week on the contact side and have bodies back for Saturday - those mentioned along with Luke Brady who cane through last week unscathed. We remain positive and need to pick up points even more so now”

Askam, on a high after the win over Barrow Island, face a daunting trip to Beverley and await late fitness tests on Jamie Butler, Gary Bolton and Dale Lampton.

Back after missing out last week are Kier Shepherd, Jordan Jones and James Wallis while Andy McKie is with the Scotland squad.

Stand in coach Tammy Tyson said: “It's a tough trip but we will be on the bus, we will have players on board and hope for the best.

"It's been a difficult few weeks but we will fight on and see the season out and regroup. The lads played out of their skins last week and this will give them a boost for what will be a difficult game."