Northern Rail Cup Preview: Batley Bulldogs v Workington Town (Sun)

Batley Bulldogs coach John Kear looks set to receive a triple boost for Sunday’s Northern Rail Cup quarter final with Workington Town.

Ayden Faal, Gareth Potts and Alex Bretherton are all expected to be declared fit for the Bulldogs as they look to progress in a competition they last won in 2010.

Kear said: “It’s a big game for everybody, and for part-time players this is our Challenge Cup.”

Town coach Gary Charlton insists Batley’s slope will not affect his men.

Charlton said: “As a club we haven’t played on that pitch for a very long time, and none of our lads will have played on it, but it’s just another green field.

“It’s all about how we prepare; if we prepare well, we’ll give a very good account of ourselves.”

Jarrad Stack and Karl Olstrum are both doubtful for Workington, while Charlton has limited dual registration options, with only Macgraff Leuluai able to play this week after he played in the last round.