Ladbrokes Challenge Cup Round 4 preview: Barrow Raiders v Halifax

Barrow Raiders coach Paul Crarey is relishing the challenge of pitting their wits against Kingstone Press Championship opposition and believes the Cup can bring out the best in his patched-up squad.

“We’re a bit bashed up after last weekend’s game against Oldham but can’t wait to get stuck in,” said Crarey. “We have a lot of players here who haven’t played at this level before.

“Halifax are a big side, with great personnel working for them. Richard Marshall has turned them into a force to be reckoned with. We look at them and our aim is to be like them. For us it’s all about the performance.  It will be a big spectacle, both teams are well-supported and I know that they won’t be taking us lightly.

“The beauty of the Cup is that it’s open to anyone. It’s got such a proud history, to me it’s the biggest competition in the sport. It would be massive for the club if we could get through to the next round.”

Halifax coach Marshall, says that confidence is high amongst his team ahead of the clash.

“We are going into the game off the back of our first home win of the season against Dewsbury so we are feeling really confident,” he said.

“However, Barrow are a good outfit, they have some really strong players and I know that they’ll be fired up for this game. They have home advantage which is important, it will be tough going up to Cumbria.

“Despite them being in the league below us, I don’t think there will be a massive divide between class and talent after seeing them play, it’s not going to be easy.”