Peter Rimmer will make a welcome return when Barrow Island take the long trip to York Acorn in round two of the Coral Challenge Cup tomorrow.

The former Hindpool Tigers pack star missed most of last season due to family commitments but the hard-working forward is up and ready for this cup tie.

Island coach Joe Elliott said; “It's good to have Peter back in the squad, he will come in as a straight swap for Callum Nelson, who is unavailable, not a bad swap that one, in fact a great swap.

"We know it is going to be a massive challenge but one that the players are up for, they will be testing their ability against Premier Division (NCL) opposition. The game will be a real test and one that will put us in good stead for the coming season.

"It will probably be our biggest game of the season, apart from meeting Barrow in round three!

"There is no better incentive for the lads to get through and play a League One side and, if successful, it would be nice to meet Barrow, but we have to overcome what will be a tough Acorn side away from home before we can think of taking on the semi-pros.”

Acorn won promotion to the Premier Division after clinching second place in Division One last year when they pipped Featherstone Lions on points difference.

It was a record winning score of 88-0 over Dewsbury Moor that saw them beat the Lions into the automatic promotion slot.

Acorn have been a top side for several years and like Barrow Island, who would like to get through and face Barrow, they also have the incentive to go through and the possible tie with home side York City Knights.

Island are likely to stick with the majority of the 17 that overwhelmed Rhondda Outlaws 84-6 in the first round with Matt Parkinson possibly joining the squad. The Rating Lane stalwart is trying to arrange his work commitments.

Adam Jackson continues his trials with Rochdale Hornets, while Carl McBain is pushing for a contract with Barrow Raiders, so both are missing out.

But on the plus side, points machines from the Rhondda game Sam Jones and Ben Garner are available, although they could still play some part for the Raiders as the season progresses.

Elliott added “We have a great squad this season with several of the younger lads pushing for places lads like Max Moore and Shane Sanderson, who both played well in the last round, they will be in contention tomorrow.

"Also we have plenty of pace with Nathan Sneesby coming in from Hindpool and Jonathan Walsh back from a stint at Workington, although he is not quite ready.”