Championship getting stronger, says Watson

Ian Watson reckons Swinton fans can look forward to the highest standard of rugby league they’ve seen for years when the 2013 Championship campaign gets under way.

The Lions were promoted to the game’s second tier in 2012 finishing in eighth place in a season which finished below expectations.

This year the Championship has been increased to 14 teams with at least four clubs with Super League ambitions.

 “The Championship is already a tough competition and it’s about to get tougher,” said Swinton’s assistant player coach.

“Featherstone have strengthened, Leigh have strengthened and the four clubs that have come up will have something to prove.

“There is no doubt that the competition is getting stronger every year.”

The season starts with Watson’s testimonial game against North Wales Crusaders on Saturday, December 29 at Leigh Sports Village (1pm).

The Lions are hoping to make key squad announcements in late January but Watson is aware that, as it stands, they need to strengthen

He said: “We have lost some very good players in Tom Armstrong and Adam Higson, and the lads who have gone to Australia, and we need to strengthen our squad.

“We need to add some quality if we are going to compete.”