Injury worry could force Jones to wait for next points

The former Halifax scrum-half has posted points in 31 successive matches for Keighley, stretching back to 2008, but is a major doubt for the Northern Rail Cup journey to Barrow due to an arm injury.

His side are also protecting their own proud record of nine consecutive victories, Keighley's last defeat being at Dewsbury in July, but clearly realise the Championship title holders will threaten that more than anyone.

"It's certainly a different proposition for us than last week," said coach Barry Eaton, whose Pool One leaders beat Workington 38-10 in their latest Northern Rail Cup fixture.

"We've had a taste of Championship opposition when we played Whitehaven but we've not travelled away to it yet.

"Barring a mathematical miracle I think we've just about qualified for the next stages."

Batley Bulldogs should confirm their place in the quarter finals with victory at Gateshead Thunder, who are yet to get off the mark.

In Pool Two, cup favourites Halifax entertain Hunslet Hawks needing a win to progress after their midweek loss to Sheffield Eagles.

But their opponents can also still qualify and Hunslet coach Paul March admitted: "I'm glad it's come about that we're playing Halifax. You want to be playing against the best players in games like these."

Likewise, Dewsbury Rams face Leigh with both sides knowing victory will see them make the last eight, although Dewsbury will have to do so without the influential Rob Spicer (broken arm).

Troubled Doncaster have a mounting injury list as they tackle Blackpool, Featherstone Rovers host Rochdale Hornets and York City Knights welcome London Skolars.

Sheffield, already qualified, will play Oldham on Monday night at Sedgley Park RUFC following a late switch.