FIRST round ties take place tomorrow with two interesting clashes in the Barton Townley cup.

Roose Pioneers take on Barrow Island at Holbeck while Walney Central entertain Hindpool at Central Drive (both kick off 2-00pm.)

Pioneers who play in the North West Men’s league have a tough encounter with Conference outfit Barrow Island and they welcome back Adam Batty after being side-lined before Covid with a serious thumb injury. Dan Sharp is also back in the fold after a two-year absence.

Youngsters brought into the squad by Coach Jordan Herdman are Ben Hampson, Harrison O'Brien and 17-year-old Sam Beattie.

“Competition for places is hotting up with so many young boys coming into contention, this is good for the Coaching staff and our future,” Herdman said ahead of the game.

Liam Armistead and Chris Holmes are unavailable.

Island under the guidance of new Coach Shaun Corrie are without experienced Matt Parkinson (work) and prop forward Jack Sutherland, the latter could be out for several weeks due to a knee problem.

Corrie said: “I am looking forward to seeing Noah Robinson in action after his move from Millom, we have waited over 14 months to get him on the park. Under 18 players Will Hadwin and Martin Brun are in contention, two good prospects.”

Peter Rimmer has returned to Hindpool while back at Dalton is Jonathan Walsh.

Walney have a new Coach in Neal Henderson who for several years has seen the development of many of the young players coming into the Open age side.

Veteran Stu Tippett refuses to hang up his boots and his experience will be vital for the younger players, while another key player, Jamie Morrow takes a backward step.

His next steps will be into the ring as he tries his hand at boxing.

“We have lost a few older players so it’s time to look to the future with the kids who include my own son Matthew along with Arnie Luxon and Ryan Wilson. We welcome back Ethan Furness," Henderson said.

Hindpool are minus Lee Boyd who damaged his knee in last week’s 50-12 defeat at Leigh Miners “A” while also on the treatment table is Camerson McDermott (leg njury).

Phil Cubiss is back in the hot seat for the Tigers and on board is much travelled Adam Nicholson, he lines up with Jamie McIroy and Mattie Archer who were missing last week.

In the North West Men’s League, Dalton face Chorley Panthers at Kelland Park after defeating Oldham St Anne’s in last week’s opener.

Zac Steel makes his debut on dual Reg from Workington with Evans James and Jack Devlin added to the squad.

Old heads Matty Bolton and Ross Coulson are back on board while unavailable are Ioan Haynes Elliott Stockdale and Nathan Park.

Fresh from their 16-14 win over Bury Broncos last weekend Ulverston are on the road they travel to Haresfinch.