Match Preview

Askam v Blackbrook

(Fallowfield Park, 2.30pm)

BARLA international Tom Wilkinson and former Raider Jamie Butler are back in contention for the Villagers who look to extend their unbeaten run to five with the visit of Blackbrook.

And while the St Helens side had a poor start to the National Conference Division Two season, losing their first four games, they have bounced back with three wins from four, including a 50-10 home win over Stanningley last week.

However, they come up against a Askam side who have the best defensive record in the division.

On the negative side, old warrior Barry Pugh is sidelined once more after breaking a hand in last week’s 38-18 victory at Dewbury Celtic. He joins long-term injured Tom Goffatt, Kris Tyson and Darren Gaskell, the former Raider being out for six weeks. Sam and Joe Dowsett picked up knocks last week but hey have managed to shake them off and are fit to play. Tom Askew has a bug and is unable to play while Tom Hopkins prepares for the GB U23s tour. Jordan Herdman makes his 1st team debu.

Coach Mike Wilson said: “We look to carry on from last week following our win at Dewsbury.

“It was a good win as they are difficult to beat at home.. I have to make changes from a good team display, but this year we have a strong squad and players can step in without disruption. Losing Barry Pugh is a big blow but thankfully Jamie Butler and Tom Wilkinson return this week.

Tom Hopkins is unavailable as he prepares for the BARLA GB U23s tour to Jamaica, everyone at Askam RL wish him well for the tour."

Askam are second in the table five points behind unbeaten leaders Hunslet Parkside with a game in hand.