PAUL Crarey is looking forward to seeing how several of his Barrow Raiders squad members fare when they step into the ring for the club’s charity boxing night on December 22.

The evening at Cloud Nine is headlined by a cross-code clash which will see Raiders off-season recruit Gareth Hock taking on Hawcoat Park Rugby Union forward Paul Woodburn.

Barrow team-mates Glenn Riley and Tom Walker, and Jake Spedding and Jono Smith go head-to-head too, with Tee Ritson and Deon Cross due to be in action on the night as well.

The Raiders are supporting the charity Mind In Furness with the event and head coach Crarey expects it to be a good night.

“It’s going to be a massive event and there will be some big match-ups,” said Crarey. “Gareth Hock has shown what he’s capable of and he’s a man-mountain with great hands, and very tough.

“It’ll be a great main event, but there will be some other good fights. We watched Jono Smith quietly training on his own and he’s fighting Jake Spedding.

“I think there’s a mis-match there somewhere because one is 6’2” and one is 5’8”, so probably under the rules of boxing that wouldn’t happen.

“We’re looking forward to it, we just want it to be a great event and bring the town together.”

Ticket sales have been going well, although a limited number are still available and cost £25, and Crarey hopes the Raiders get plenty of backing.

“It’s near-on sold out, so if anyone is thinking about getting a ticket they need to do it because once they get to 400 then you won’t get in,” said Crarey.

“I know there are a lot of people talking about it, but I know all the players will be there and a lot of past players will be there as well.

“We’ve always said we’re one big family, and I hope the whole rugby community will come down and watch our games this year and the boxing, and just be part of what we’re trying to do at the club.

“We’re trying to bring the whole town together, and slowly but surely we’re managing to do that.”

Tickets are available at the Rugby Shop on Scott Street, or they can be reserved for collection over the phone on 01229 824454.