Get ready for an action-packed rugby league extravaganza this weekend! With a whopping 20 matches on the schedule, it's set to be an unmissable showcase of the sport's thrilling action and intense competition.
But here's where it gets controversial... the weather has already claimed its victims, with last week's adverse conditions forcing the postponement of nine Challenge Cup ties and two friendly matches. However, the show must go on, and this weekend promises an even bigger spectacle as the postponed games are rescheduled, the Championship season kicks off, and four Super League clubs take to the field for pre-season friendlies.
The Championship opener between Oldham RLFC and Salford RLFC on Friday night is sure to grab attention. With Salford only recently granted RFL membership on December 22nd, this game promises to be a fascinating insight into the team's progress and a great indicator of their potential for the season ahead.
In addition to the Championship action, two Super League sides will be taking part in testimonials. Huddersfield Giants will host York Knights for Matty English's testimonial, while Castleford Tigers face off against Leeds Rhinos for Brad Singleton's testimonial. These games are a great opportunity for fans to celebrate the careers of these players and enjoy some high-quality rugby league action.
For those unable to attend the games in person, there's good news! The Sportsman YouTube channel will be broadcasting Siddal versus Waterhead Warriors in the Challenge Cup. With Man of Steel Jake Connor as the head coach of the hosts, this match is sure to be an exciting watch.
So, mark your calendars and get ready for an incredible weekend of rugby league! Here's a breakdown of all the games taking place:
Championship
- Salford RLFC vs Oldham RLFC - Friday, January 16th, 8:00 pm
- Midlands Hurricanes vs Newcastle Thunder - Sunday, January 18th, 2:00 pm
- Barrow Raiders vs Workington Town - Sunday, January 18th, 3:00 pm
- Doncaster RLFC vs Halifax Panthers - Sunday, January 18th, 3:00 pm
- Hunslet RLFC vs Dewsbury Rams - Sunday, January 18th, 3:00 pm
- London Broncos vs Widnes Vikings - Sunday, January 18th, 3:00 pm
- Keighley Cougars vs Goole Vikings - Sunday, January 18th, 3:00 pm
- Whitehaven RLFC vs Sheffield Eagles - Sunday, January 18th, 3:00 pm
- Swinton Lions vs Rochdale Hornets - Sunday, January 18th, 3:00 pm
Challenge Cup
- Heworth vs RAF - Saturday, January 17th, 1:00 pm
- Telford Raiders vs London Chargers - Saturday, January 17th, 1:00 pm
- Brighouse Rangers vs Lock Lane - Saturday, January 17th, 1:30 pm
- Stanningley vs Dewsnury Moor - Saturday, January 17th, 1:30 pm
- Woodhouse Warriors vs Mirfield Spartans - Saturday, January 17th, 1:30 pm
- Kings Cross Park vs West Hull - Saturday, January 17th, 2:00 pm
- Rochdale Mayfield vs Ince Rose Bridge - Saturday, January 17th, 2:00 pm
- Wigan St Judes vs Leigh Miners Rangers - Saturday, January 17th, 2:00 pm
- Siddal vs Waterhead Warriors - Sunday, January 18th, 1:30 pm
Friendlies
- Huddersfield Giants vs York Knights - Saturday, January 17th, 3:00 pm (Matty English Testimonial)
- Castleford Tigers vs Leeds Rhinos - Sunday, January 18th, 3:00 pm (Brad Singleton Testimonial)
And this is the part most people miss... the rescheduled Siddal RLFC vs Waterhead Warriors match, originally postponed due to weather, is now set to be broadcast on The Sportsman's YouTube channel. Don't miss out on this exciting encounter!
So, rugby league enthusiasts, are you ready to dive into this weekend's action? Which games are you most excited about? Let us know in the comments and join the discussion!
