THE future looks bright for Barrow Raiders after their elite under-16s squad scored an impressive victory over Newcastle Thunder's scholarship side.

It was only the second game for the Barrow side, having played Dowdales School last year, and a number of players from their opponents that day were included in the line-up for the visit of Newcastle.

Sam Purslow led the way with two tries for the hosts at Craven Park, while other scorers in the 28-22 win included Josh Leighton and Zak Steel.

Raiders Academy head coach Darren Carter was pleased with what he saw, and was delighted for under-16s coaches Joe Bullock, Mike Whitehead and Shaun Corrie.

“The under-16s' performance was outstanding and it's just rewards for the hard work Joe, Mike and Shaun have put in,” said Carter.

“I've watched them train for the last 15 or 16 weeks on a Monday night, and seen how they've put the kids through their paces and put some structure into them. They scored some really nice tries against a side who have been established for quite a few years.

“I was really impressed with some of the players on show; I thought Ewan Costa had a great game, Zak Steel, Josh Holmes, and Ethan Bickerdike in the centre from Millom had an outstanding game.

“Across the board, they looked strong and there are some individual players there we will definitely keep an eye on because they have got big futures in the game.”