Knights determined to enjoy Cup chance

The Knights, who play in the first division of the National Conference, will play the third-round tie at neighbours Featherstone Rovers’ Big Fellas Stadium tomorrow (2pm).

Having beaten Lock Lane and the Royal Air Force to reach the third round, Knights’ player-coach Paul Seal is relishing the chance to tackle the professionals of Workington.

“It’s an exciting occasion for everyone involved with the club,” said former Halifax forward Seal. “The players are really looking forward to it. There’s no pressure on us to win the game so it’s just about us going out there, enjoying the day and taking what we can from it.

“It will be a good experience. The younger lads have not played at this level before so it’ll be interesting for them.

“I have been on the other side when you’re expected to win and you can feel that pressure, not just to perform but to win – and win by a lot of points – so it might be something we can capitalise on.

“We might not be as good technically but we will have enthusiasm on our side. It’s not something we get to do often and a community side playing a Championship team is something to relish, so hopefully that can give us a bit of an edge, too.”

Normanton are one of several amateur clubs from across Yorkshire hoping to upset the odds against Championship opposition.

East Leeds travel to former winners Sheffield Eagles, Milford Marlins host Barrow Raiders at Headingley, Dewsbury Rams is the destination for West Hull, Doncaster face the British Army, and Hull Dockers host Halifax.