Barrow Raiders Ladies are back in Betfred Challenge Cup group action this weekend after last week’s opening loss against Cardiff.
The South Cumbrians host Wigan Warriors Women on Sunday afternoon needing to step up after the 22-16 defeat to Cardiff Demons.
It’s an early look at the Wigan side for Barrow as they entertain them again next month in the new Betfred Women’s Super League season.
Speaking to the club website ahead of the Wigan game, head coach Amanda Wilkinson said: “We are looking forward to this one. It’s going to be a big test for the girls, and not an easy one either.
“We played some really good rugby with ball in-hand against Cardiff and spent plenty of time on their goal-line, but we made the wrong decisions and came up with some poor execution which meant the game was lost in the first half.
“As for Wigan, they have some quality players with international experience, and some impressive young talent who are athletic and show good skill and speed.
“We will need to be at our best from kick-off to be in with a chance. Under the guidance of a smart new coach in Denis Betts, the girls are looking in good shape and very organised, but we have prepared well and will give it our best.”
Sunday will also give Wilkinson the opportunity to come up against the club she spent many successful years with.
She led the Warriors to Women’s Super League glory in 2018 but insists it will be business as usual ahead of this weekend.
“All Challenge Cup games are exciting, and it’s great to be involved with this competition,” she added.
“I have so many great memories from my time at Wigan, but now I’m here at Barrow, heading into Group 1 of the Women’s Super League and making more history.
“As a coach, I’m always focused on the task and the team, and preparing them to be the best they can be, regardless of the opposition.”
