Rugby League

BRIGHOUSE Rangers and rivals Wyke are eager for an extended cup run when the opening round of the Andrew Bennett Memorial Trophy begins at Russell Way tomorrow.

The neighbours are out of the Pennine League Division One promotion stakes and will be trying to rescue their season with some silverware.

Rangers have a number of big pack guns back in action in prop Ben Waud, loose forward Ben Wrightson and utility packman Matty Bailey.

Flying wingman Reece Bray has recovered from a leg strain, while a decision on Liam Stead (broken nose) will be taken after a fitness test.

The black and whites will also have a spring in their step with the return of BARLA international back-rower Ash Hutchinson and the inspirational presence of prop Ian Wormald, who has recovered from a broken finger. Centre Ryan Exley also starts following a fractured nose.

Division Four championship favourites Queensbury travel to Selby Warriors with powerhouse centre Callum Murgatroyd donning a jersey for the first time this term.

Playmaker Brett Marriott rejoins the squad, while youngsters Joel Charlton and Tyler Ochobi are expected to recover from knocks in time to face a side that are difficult to beat on home soil.

Victoria Rangers have home advantage as they seek a Division One double over Cutsyke Raiders after a 38-36 win last October.

Clayton are hoping to be at full strength against Newsome Panthers.

The Huddersfield visitors are very much in the Division Two promotion race, while the hosts have slipped out of contention after two away defeats.

The return of top try-scorer Simon Giles, playmaker Phil Redgrave and speedster Elliot McElroy from injury is a massive injection of class, and the reappearance of former Keighley Cougar packman Danny Murgatroyd from work commitments is icing on the cake.