Hunslet to face Barrow Raiders in pre-season clash

The Parksiders had already confirmed they will end a 13-month layoff when they face North Wales Crusaders at South Leeds Stadium on Sunday, April 18.

And coach Gary Thornton has now arranged a second warm-up against National One opposition, with Barrow Raiders set to be the visitors on Sunday, April 25.

Both games will be played behind closed doors, with a 3pm kick-off, but streamed live on the internet.

Hunslet were top of League One when the first Covid-19 lockdown was imposed in March, 2020.

The trial games will be a crucial part of Hunslet’s build-up to their opening competitive fixture at home to Workington Town on Sunday, May 9.

Thornton said: “We’ll give every player plenty of game time in both matches and ensure no one gets overplayed.

“We haven’t played competitive rugby for 13 months and we have to be cognisant of not over-playing anyone and putting them at risk of injury.”

Thornton expects every member of his squad to be available for this month’s games.

He added: “Half-back Simon Brown is struggling a little with a calf injury, but he should be ok, it’s nothing serious.”

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