NRC Preview: Hunslet v Featherstone

Hunslet start 2010 without Michael Mark (hand), Richard Knight (knee) and Joe Howey.

However, coach Paul March remains in confident mood. He said: “We’re very happy with the progress we’ve made in pre-season

“We’ve been lucky that we’ve got some indoor facilities down at the South Leeds Stadium. We’ve also been competitive in the friendlies we’ve played and got better and better with each game.

“I class Featherstone among the top group of clubs in the Championship, but hopefully we can put a up good show and maybe get ourselves an early scalp in the Northern Rail Cup.”

Howey is likely to feature for Hunslet’s reserve side on February 2 while Mark should be available for next week’s game against London.

“Hunslet have signed well,” admitted Rovers coach Daryl Powell.

“It will be a tough test for us but we’ve set out to be a tough team this season.”