Ladbrokes Challenge Cup Round 4 preview: Featherstone Lions v York City Knights

Featherstone Lions coach Jamie Rooney, who had a highly successful playing career, is looking forward to locking horns with a professional side for the first time in his coaching career.

“It’s a big game and something I’m really looking forward to,” he said.

“It’s a fantastic draw for us and a big challenge but it’s something all the players are buzzing about.

“There’s a bit of extra spice there with Ryan Mallinder who is a Fev lad and also their coach James Ford being a former Rovers player so it should be a good tussle.

“It’s a big game for our boys and probably will be the biggest game they will ever be involved in for the Lions.

“Every single player from 1 to 17 is a local lad. We have players who could definitely play at a higher level and they are looking forward to testing themselves on Friday.”

The match is being played at The Big Fellas Stadium, Post Office Road, Featherstone.