Brett Carter has a full house on his CV – turning out for home town club Barrow, Workington Town and Whitehaven.
The 38-year-old utility back is among the fringe players now at the Matt Johnson Prestige Stadium and admits the upcoming jubilee weekend double-header will test the depth of Barrow Raiders’ squad.
On Thursday they face a tough test against in-form Leigh Centurions, who won the 1895 Cup at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium last weekend, before welcoming Widnes Vikings on Sunday.
With two games in the space of three days, many of the Raiders’ fringe players are likely to get the chance to impress – something which Carter hopes will galvanise the squad as they pass the midway stage of the Betfred Championship season.
“To play the likes of Leigh and Widnes will be tough considering we have those two games so close together,” he said. “I think Cresta (coach Paul Crarey) mentioned that everyone at the club will be utilised in these next two games, so it definitely tests the depth of your squad.
“The double-header probably puts a bit more strain on teams like ourselves who don’t have such a big squad, but all of the fringe lads will be grateful for the game time. And likewise, all of the more regular guys will be thankful for the break.”
Thursday’s opponents, the Centurions, have lost just once in the league this season and boast the strongest defence in the competition.
With a wealth of Super League and NRL talent in their ranks, Carter understands the challenge his side face but is looking forward to tackling it head on.
“Playing against teams like Leigh and looking at the people they’ve signed, you get a real buzz from coming up against those guys,” the Scotland international told the club website. “You relish the opportunity to come up against that calibre of player.”
Looking ahead to Sunday’s clash with Widnes, he added: “Obviously with the Widnes game on Sunday, we put up a great performance and beat them away from home last time we met, so the pressure is probably more on them. It’s definitely a winnable game.”
On a personal note, Carter has enjoyed plenty of game time in recent weeks, scoring once in five appearances in all competitions.
The outside back says the chance to step up and help the Raiders on a more regular basis has been one he has embraced
“I’ve been loving it, to be honest,” he said. “I’m used to being a squad player, but with the amount of injuries that we’ve picked up, I’ve had a bit more game time recently.
“I’m really enjoying it and truly grateful for the opportunity to get as much time on the field as I am.”
