BARROW Raiders Ladies must continue to show their character and fighting spirit says head coach Amanda Wilkinson. 

Promoted to the highest level of women’s rugby league in the UK ahead of the 2022 campaign, Barrow Ladies will compete in Group 2 of the competition alongside Bradford Bulls, Featherstone Rovers, Leigh Miners Rangers, Wakefield Trinity and Warrington Wolves.

A number of pre-season friendlies and Betfred Challenge Cup fixtures – including against last season’s treble winners St Helens – have helped Wilkinson’s squad prepare for the task at hand before they welcome Warrington Wolves to the Matt Johnson Prestige Stadium on Sunday 15 May.

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Wilkinson admits there is plenty of excitement ahead of Sunday, but warns that her players must remain focused on their individual duties rather than the occasion. 

“I’m really looking forward to getting the season started,” she said. “I’ve really enjoyed my journey so far with the club, and being a Cumbrian I’m honoured to coach the ladies in their first-ever Super League game.

“There is a real buzz about the team, with lots of mixed emotions, both excitement and nerves.  

“We have such a passionate team that wears the Barrow badge with such pride, and to be running out on home soil in front of the fans in the first-ever Super League game for Barrow is going to be a very special occasion. 

“It is my job, along with my coaching staff this week, to keep them focused on the performance and prepare them well so they can be the best they can be.”

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The Raiders Ladies, captained by half-back Jodie Litherland, have prepared well for Sunday’s season-opener, with two pre-season friendlies – an 18-14 victory over the UK Armed Forces and a 22-6 defeat to Huddersfield Giants – giving Wilkinson a chance to assess her squad.

And despite bowing out of the Betfred Women’s Challenge Cup group stages last month, Wilkinson is confident that her side will be all the better for their competitive experiences, which included a 68-0 defeat at home to St Helens.