Daryl Powell shrugs off Wakefield Trinity's Challenge Cup drought with Leeds Rhinos focus
Wakefield Trinity's last Challenge Cup win predates Daryl Powell but the veteran head coach is making sure history doesn't weigh on his players this week.
The trophy has eluded Trinity since 1963 and the club haven't reached the final in 47 years.
Powell, however, is only concerned about Friday's last-16 clash with Leeds Rhinos as he shrugged off Wakefield's long wait for success in the competition.
"It's before I was born so that is a long time ago," said the 60-year-old with a smile.
"We've got to take that out of the equation and focus on what we can do now.
"We know what we've got to do and how difficult a challenge it is. We know it's a big game and don't need to build it up too much.
"The Challenge Cup is a pretty big competition and we want to do well in it, that's for certain.
"When it's knockout, you've got to take it one game at a time and chip away."
Wakefield warmed up for the tie with a hard-fought victory over Hull FC, providing a timely boost after a scratchy start to the season.
Leeds, by contrast, made an early statement with their Las Vegas demolition of Hull KR and arrive at Belle Vue protecting a three-match winning run.
As far as Powell is concerned, Trinity are clear underdogs despite home advantage.
"We've won two from four in the league, which is an alright start," said the Wakefield boss, whose side edged last year's battles with the Rhinos.
"I just think we can play much, much better. Leeds have hit the ground absolutely flying and will be big favourites for this game, I'd say.
"For us, I feel like there's a really good performance just around the corner. You'd like to think it's in this game.
"We've trained pretty well this week and there's a glint in the players' eyes looking forward to this challenge against Leeds. Any game on its day can be won by either team.
"They're big favourites but we're not too worried about that. We've got to get after the game and see if we can get our best performance out there. If we can do that, we're a challenge for everybody."
The Yorkshire rivals are both close to full strength for the cup derby.
While Trinity remain without Mason Lino (hamstring) and Tyson Smoothy (head), they are boosted by the return of England winger Tom Johnstone.
The 30-year-old missed the start of the year after undergoing a minor knee operation but there are no question marks over his fitness ahead of the biggest game of the season so far.
"He's been building towards this for the last few weeks," said Powell. "He's ready to go.
"He's an international-quality player. It's a big game for us and it's great to have him back.
"I'm looking forward to seeing him play. You want your better players out there on the field.
"We still have a couple of people missing but those guys aren't too far away. We're looking pretty good at the moment."