Barrow Raiders forward Charlie Emslie has called on the squad to find their rhythm ahead of Sunday’s return to Betfred Championship action.
With one win, one draw and seven defeats from their opening nine matches, it has been a difficult start to the season for the Raiders.
A mid-season break gave the squad the opportunity to nurse some bumps and bruises, and they will look to go against this Sunday as Bradford Bulls visit the Matt Johnson Prestige Stadium.
The Raiders won home and away against the Bulls last season – securing their first win at Odsal since 1963 in the process.
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Emslie is expecting a tough challenge this time around as the squad looks to find the on-field formula which brought so much success during the 2022 campaign.
“I think all of us know that on our day we fancy ourselves against the majority of teams in this league,” he said.
“We just need to tweak some things that are going wrong and find our rhythm. Once we do that, I feel like we will be comfortable.
“Bradford are a good side and have pulled off some good results this year, but if we are at our best then I think we can definitely get the job done.”
Emslie, the club’s Young Player of the Year for 2022, has been forced to bide his time for opportunities this season, making four appearances off the bench.
He has also been named as 18th man on three occasions, and the 22-year-old knows he needs to take his chances when they’re given to him by head coach Paul Crarey.
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With a refreshed squad to choose from, the Scotland international also hopes to see the Raiders turn a corner ahead of league matches against London Broncos and Whitehaven later in the month.
“I was lucky enough to play a lot of games last year so this year has been a bit different,” he added. “It’s making me realise that I need to take the opportunity when I get it, and value each game that goes by.
“I think a few of the lads had a couple of knocks, so the break was a good chance for everyone to recover and focus on what’s not been going too well at the minute.
“Hopefully everyone’s fit, and we’ll be ready to play to our strengths and reach our full potential this weekend.”
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