Match Preview

Underbank Rangers told to enjoy toughest Challenge Trophy tie
Trip to Premier League leaders Leigh Miners Rangers is one to be relished

Underbank Rangers coach Richard Knight will send his players into Conference Challenge Trophy action at Leigh Miners Rangers tomorrow telling them they have nothing to lose.

Knight’s National Conference League Second Division side have been handed the toughest possible first-round tie at the unbeaten Premier Division leaders.

The Lancastrians made it with four League wins out of four with last week’s impressive 32-8 home triumph over 2014 Grand Finalists Wath Brow Hornets.

And even though Underbank produced their best performance of the season to thrash Askam 52-4 at the same time, Knight knows it would be a massive shock if his side triumphed this weekend, particularly with a number of senior players ruled out through injury.

“My message to the boys is to go out there tomorrow and enjoy the experience of testing themselves against the best amateur team in the country,” said Knight.

“No-one expects us to win, so it’s a case of playing without pressure and in a carefree manner.

“But I do know if we play like we did against Askam last week, we’ll give a good account of ourselves, because we were very good that day.

“We haven’t played that well all year, and I really couldn’t find fault with our boys at all.

“Our completion rate was over 80%, we only missed seven tackles all game compared to 40 the week before and we only gave away three penalties compared to 12 a week ago, so all round it was a much-improved performance.

“So that’s given us a lot of confidence ahead of this tie.”

But Knight admits the injuries are hitting his squad hard.

Chris Druett (groin), Paul Reilly (shoulder), Paul Horsfall (arm), Craig Williams (dead leg) and Kris Harrop (back) are all nursing knocks and won’t be risked.

But the head coach feels this could give the likes of up-coming trio William England, Jonny Tinker and Ramone Noteman the chance to shine against the best around.

“Over the past few weeks all three have made their debuts and shown their potential,” added Knight.

“I’d certainly have no hesitation in giving them a run at Leigh Miners, even though the standard is going to be so much higher.

“To be honest, they’ll get their chance because we’re not going to risk some of our more experienced players for a game like this weekend’s.

“In the overall scheme of things, our main focus has to be our League campaign and making sure we’re as strong as possible for those fixtures. Doing well in the Cup competition would be a bonus for us.”