York Knights boss Mark Applegarth not giving up on Challenge Cup dream despite selection issues

The Knights boss suggested he may struggle to name 17 players after seeing Will Dagger and Josh Griffin join a lengthy list of absentees during last week's defeat at Huddersfield Giants.

Applegarth, who was already without the likes of Liam Harris, Jordan Thompson and Toa Mata'afa, is also unable to call on cup-tied pair David Nofoaluma and Will Roberts this week.

However, York will not be allowed to hide behind those excuses at Craven Park.

"Whatever team we go out with, we'll have 17 blokes who will go as hard as they can to get a victory for York Knights in a quarter-final of the Challenge Cup," said Applegarth, whose side have fresh memories of their stunning win over the Robins in round one of Super League.

"I'm confident that as long as we stick true to our identity, standards and application, especially with our defensive intent, we'll be a match for anyone.

"We'll put a 17 out there that is going to go hammer and tongs to get a victory."

Ben Jones-Bishop lost his ever-present record last week with a broken foot sustained in the previous game against former club Wakefield Trinity.

Applegarth has hailed the veteran winger's bravery after he demonstrated his commitment to the team by initially playing through the pain.

"I'm gutted for Bish personally because I know how hard he’s attacked this year so far and how much it means to him," said Applegarth.

"It's also a testament to how tough he is. To score that try he scored against Wakefield when he had his broken foot then and jumped in the air to get that, it tells you exactly how tough that man is."

Applegarth could be set for a welcome boost as Sam Wood steps up his recovery from a dislocated finger.

However, the centre will only face his old club if he ticks all the relevant boxes.

"Woody's keen to play," said Applegarth, who could also welcome back Danny Richardson. "He's a big part of what we do this year and we've just got to be smart about when we do get him back playing."

While Willie Peters does not have the same selection headaches, the Hull KR head coach is without captain Elliot Minchella for the last-eight tie.

The holders are otherwise set to be close to full strength, with goalkicking back-rower Rhyse Martin poised to return from a broken foot.

"He got through everything that he needed to," said Peters. "He'll be back in contention for sure.

"Elliot Minchella has a tight hamstring. His strength is not where it should be and if he plays, there's a chance that he could potentially injure that to a full-blown hamstring.

"We don't want to risk that – we never want to risk soft tissues. He won't play this week.

"It should be only a week. We'll manage it properly and build him for next week. He should be OK.

"We'll have a look, we'll work out what it looks like, but there are a few there to choose from."