Walney Central return to the Cumbria League after a two-year absence when they take on Glasson Rangers at Central Drive.

The Cents, along with other Barrow-based sides, were part of a strong Cumbria League for several years, but it all fell apart.

However, after dabbling in the North West Men’s League for two seasons, the Cents decided it wasn’t for them as home games were constantly being called off due to South Lancashire teams failing to travel.

Coach Dave Warne said: “It’s nice to be back - we were not happy in the NWML and felt this was the best way forward.

“We know it will be a tough league and there are plenty of Cup competitions to compete in. We have a good blend of youth and experienced players and have appointed three captains for what will be a long season. Jamie Ralph, Matty Elliott and Jordan Staffieri are all good leaders.”

The Cents had many good years with their West Cumbrian cousins, with many teams highly competitive and trophies came in abundance,

Warne welcomes back Ralph, who missed most of last season with two bad knee injuries. Also back after a stint Down Under is Luke Bailey and he will form a new half-back partnership with Dec Gavin in the absence of the semi-retired Jamie Morrow and Brad Nichols.

Ethan Furness, Dale Waite and Kieron Sharp are also in the squad along with Johny Corkill.|Former Raider Matty Holmes is still not fully fit after only one outing last season, as he has an ankle problem but it is responding to treatment.

A minute’s silence will be observed for former player, committee man and volunteer Dave Pollock whose funeral was due to take place today at the Crematorium at 2:30pm.

In the NWML, Ulverston are at home to Haresfinch and welcome back skipper Matty Storey and possibly Jake Spedding but missing out with a shoulder injury is Sam Shepherd.

“We are desperate to get on the field after three weeks of postponements. We are going well with gym work but you need to get out on the pitch,” said coach Dennis Porter.

Hindpool Tigers are home to Wigan St Patricks A and will field a stronger side to that which lost heavily to Askam in the Barton Townley Cup, with Jamie McIlory, Adam Martin, Rob Bower and Lee Bowyer all in contention.

“We are better prepared now and looking stronger, and took a lot of postatives from that Askam defeat,” said Phil Cubiss, who has rejoined the coaching staff.

Roose Pioneers make a rapid return to Cadishead for their opening fixture after losing at the Oldham-based side last week in a cup tie.

Coach Jordan Herdman said: “We will have a stronger squad, with Adam Batty, Rob Shepherd, Liam and James Armistead back in contention. Awaiting a late fitness test is Kristian Holmes, who has a rib injury.”

Dalton are at Bury Broncos in their return to the NWML, but travel without Evan Jones and Harri Brown both injured but on the plus side the Crarey boys, Joe and Jack, are back.

Coach Dave High said: “We are looking good this weekend and go with confidence and hopefully pick up the points then look forward to hosting Ulverston next week.”