Batley Bulldogs expecting tough test from Sheffield Eagles

Sheffield have had an inconsistent season and sit eighth in the table with five wins from 15 games. They have drawn three of their fixtures - the most of any side in the division.

Batley won when the sides met earlier in the season as they came from behind to record a 30-18 victory at the Keepmoat Stadium in May and Lingard said of the Eagles: “They have had a bit of a strange season.

“They spanked Bradford in their first game and beat York in the second game and looked on course to have a really strong season.

“They got a victory at the weekend and they will be full of confidence now. They have had issues with Covid and a couple of their games have been called off so they might have some players back this week.

“Sheffield are always a difficult side but those past results don’t matter to us as this group have not played these teams before.

“Whatever has happened against Sheffield in the past doesn’t matter as this is a new group of players who are creating their own history.”