CH preview: Batley v Barrow (Sun)

Paul Mennell has an outside chance of featuring in the Batley Bulldogs side to face Barrow Raiders on Sunday.

But Bulldogs coach John Kear will definitely be boosted by the return of Greg Johnson and Ben Black as they look to build on last week’s 46-6 win at Keighley Cougars.

Kear said: “That result has done us the world of good and has stopped people questioning us.

“We were always confident and we always believed in each other, and that belief has been unwavering.

“Now we’ve got four games in which to build some momentum for the play-offs.”

However, Kear is aware of Barrow’s quality.

“They played really well against Halifax,” he said. “They didn’t scratch a win out. They were the best team, there’s no doubt about that.

“They played very well and we know there’s a threat in Haggerty and Harrison, but I was also very impressed with their half-backs and hooker.”

Raiders assistant coach Phil Atkinson is hoping for another repeat of last week’s display.

“That was our best display of the season,” he said.