THE opening round of the Jack Senior Memorial Bradford Cup once again takes centre stage tomorrow, with Wyke welcoming Odsal Sedbergh to Towngate.

The black and whites have breathed a big sigh of relief prior to the derby clash against their fierce rivals, with the return from injury of a large number of key personnel.

Three-quarters Gavin Mezals and Ryan Exley are potential match-winners, while the engine room is bolstered by the reappearance of Shaun Godfrey and John Vachikauscas.

Brothers Sam and Coby Kitson also claim a jersey, and new signing Ben Kelly, who has vast experience with West Bowling and Dudley Hill, joins a strong squad.

Odsal Sedbergh have been out of action for over a month but have used the break wisely to get the knocks and bruises out of the way to ensure a full complement.

Sedge enjoy a very good relationship off the field with their hosts but local pride will take top priority, ensuring a cracking cup tie which is certain to draw a large crowd.

Wyke’s second string are also in cup action and travel down the road to face West Bowling A in the first round of the Hudson Foster Trophy, with both teams making late choices on their line-ups.

West Bowling welcome back joint playmakers, hooker Danny Halmshaw and half-back Liam Coe, for the late Pennine League Premier Division switch to Upton.

Wingman James Crabb is unavailable, and Bowling coach Glenn Barraclough is expecting a close game, saying: “Upton, like ourselves, are up and down at the moment and they will be tough to beat at home. Both of us need a win to kick-start a challenge for this season’s title.”

Queensbury return to Championship Division action with a home game against Brotherton Bulldogs, following the euphoria of last week’s Bradford Cup win at West Bowling.

Coach Phil Gallagher has a major selection headache now that prop Liam Ruff, wingman Josh Boulger, half-back Jonny Norman and hooker Jonjo Naylor are fit and raring to go against the Pontefract-based visitors.

The Bulldogs have had only one success this term from their seven outings but they are aptly named for their style of play and will not be pushovers.

Division Three West table-toppers Clayton face a battle royale at Worth Village, while Odsal Sedbergh A will test a revived Birkenshaw to the full at Odsal Rec in Division Four West.