BARROW Island make their first bow of the season at the John Jefferson Stadium when they entertain Hull side Myton Warriors this weekend.
Island go into the game on the back of a 12-10 defeat at Conference debutants Ellenborough Rangers in the West of the County last week.
Division Two side Barrow Island went down to a last-minute penalty goal, having former Walney Central’s Jordan Staffieri in the sin bin.
Coach Jamie Curtis said: “I was very proud of the lads. I thought they put in a very good performance in horrific conditions.
“It was a result that could have gone either way, but it was the first game of the season.
“We have been low on numbers but are slowly getting back players into the fold and we welcome back Jake Stockdale and Finn Dutton for what will be another test against Myton, who are always a difficult side to beat.”
Shane Sanderson crossed for a try with Sam Jones adding three goals against Ellenborough.
Myton were also losers on day one, as they lost 25-16 at home to Normanton Knights.
Millom also went down on the opening day with a 14-12 defeat at Wigan St Jude’s after going in at the break 6-0 to the good with a try from Jonty Peters converted by Lee Postlethwaite.
Connor Terrill added a second half try converted by Postlethwaite.
The Woolybacks are home to Pilkington Recs who went down at home 18-34 to Thornhill Trojans last Saturday.
Speaking about his team’s display, having made the step up from Division Three, coach Brad Crellin said: “We were unlucky to come away without the points.
“We controlled the game for long periods prior to the Judes running in three tries.
“I was proud of the efforts the lads put into the game, and I’m sure we can compete at a higher level.
“I don’t know much about the Pilks, but we will concentrate on how we control the ball and work hard in defence, and if the effort is there like last week we won’t be far away at the final whistle.”
Jarty Robinson, Daniel Hartley and Aidan Wilson are in contention, but unavailable are Jonathan Hodgson, Will Singleton and Tom Askew.
The North West Men’s league gets underway with Roose Pioneers entertaining Newton Storms at Redwaters in Division Two.
Sam Johnson is set to make his Pioneers debut, while back in contention is former Millom player Rickie Donaghue.
Taylor Roberts is unavailable, while under treatment are Tom Farren and Matty Gedling.
In Division One, Ulverston are home to Salford City Roosters and go into the game with confidence following their first-round victory over Barrow Island in the Barton Townley Cup.
However, they go into battle without big guns Matty Storey, Jake Spedding, Liam Saunders and Oliver Wilkes who are all injured.
New recruit from down under Jai Smoothy makes his debut at hooker with Dan Horne added to the squad while Dave Beck is unavailable.
Hindpool Tigers face Leigh Miners “A” at Brisbane Park (kick off 2pm) with coach Kev Kyte having to disappoint players who miss out.
He said: “We have had great numbers this week at training 28 in total, so it was hard to settle on our 17-man squad.
“We are looking much stronger this season having a nice mix of youth, which I am a big believer in, and experienced players.”
Former Walney player Jack Stevens makes his Tigers debut with under-18s player Rocco Scarpone also in the 17. Jack Osman is also back in the frame.
Dalton are also on home soil when they take on Wigan St Cuthbert’s at Kelland Park.
Last weekend’s six-a-side competition due to take place at Fallowfield Park was postponed due to the adverse weather.
The tournament is now due to take place tonight with a 7.30pm start.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here