Bulldogs hoping Cup can inspire Championship challenge

Having scored two crucial tries to steer the unfashionable club to a 25-24 Northern Rail Cup final victory over Widnes, the robust winger probably realised anything is possible.

The amount of confidence and self-belief that underscored Batley's heroics in securing a first major trophy since 1924 means the prospect of further success is not as incredulous as it sounds. Karl Harrison's determined side are not even currently in the play-off positions with five games to go but, having secured their main objective of avoiding relegation, are just two points adrift with both Widnes – a side they have left demoralised – and Sheffield Eagles in their sights.

"I think now we've won this and know we can beat teams higher than us – or deemed better than us – we will aim for the play-offs," said Brown.

"Hopefully we'll then get as far as we can or, if not, win it and do the double. Why not?

"We've got heart. We're a bunch of mates who dig in at the right time together and for each other.

"I think most teams might not have that but we work hard together."

The two-mile trip to Heavy Woollen rivals Dewsbury on Sunday offers them their first opportunity to make ground before Keighley – another side below them – arrive at Mount Pleasant the following week.

If they do reach the top six, few sides would enjoy the prospect of taking on a team with such a dogged and tireless attitude.

It was their industry and conviction which proved decisive in clawing back a nine-point deficit against Widnes before Brown's finishing class came to the fore late on to deliver Batley the rarest of triumphs.

The 22-year-old is on a dual-registration deal from Huddersfield Giants, his sole Super League appearance coming at St Helens last August when coach Nathan Brown fielded a weakened side ahead of the Challenge Cup final.

"My contract is up at the end of the season and it's up to Huddersfield whether they keep me or not," he said. "Huddersfield have made me the player I am with their pre-season and given me the opportunity to progress my skills but Batley have given me that chance to play and I'm glad what I've done for them."