Cockayne: Cup clash gives York a chance to test themselves

Ben Cockayne says this weekend’s Challenge Cup with Swinton Lions gives York the chance to see where they’re at.

The City Knights have been involved in two tight contests against League One favourites Bradford and relegated Oldham, losing 22-20 against the Bulls before beating the Roughyeds by the same scoreline last weekend.

York host Championship side Swinton at Bootham Crescent on Sunday (3pm) and a win puts them in the hat for the fifth round draw, with Hull KR a potential opponent.

Cockayne said: “I played against Swinton last year for Hull KR and they throw the ball about really well.

“On the back of Chris Atkin playing well against us, he ended up signing for Hull KR later that year.

“If Swinton play anything like they did last year, it’ll be another tough game for us, but it’ll be a good chance to see where we are as a club in terms of taking on a Championship team.”

Cockayne, 34, made more than 200 Super League appearances for Hull KR and Wakefield and made the move to York in the off-season.

He combines playing in League One with a role in the commercial department at KCOM Craven Park.

He added: “I’m enjoying it. It’s really good.

“I work at Hull KR two days a week and then I train at York three nights a week, so it fits pretty well.

“I’m just really enjoying both roles so it’s good, and hopefully we can pick up a few more wins over the next month.”

The Robins and fellow Super League sides Catalans, Warrington and Widnes will join the 12 winners of this weekend’s fourth round games in the hat.