Barrow Raiders centre Matt Costello praised the performance of his side during last Sunday’s 24-10 away win at Swinton Lions, ahead of a tough home clash against unbeaten Wakefield Trinity this weekend.

Victory at Heywood Road was the Raiders’ first away from home in the league this season, with Costello one of three first half try-scorers in Greater Manchester.

Costello believes that securing the two competition points, against a side close to them in the Betfred Championship table, is a step in the right direction.

“It’s fantastic to get our first away league win. We were close at Whitehaven but it wasn’t to be on that day, and it’s good to get one over a team near us in the table,” he said.

SHOP NOW: Raiders merchandise

“The second half was a much more controlled performance. It was a much-needed improvement on our abysmal second half against Halifax not too long ago.”

This Sunday, Paul Crarey’s side welcome Championship leaders and 1895 Cup winners Wakefield to the Northern Competitions Stadium, with kick-off at the earlier time of 2pm.

The two sides have only met twice since the turn of the millennium – facing off in the Challenge Cup in 2008, then the 1895 Cup earlier this year.

More recently, Barrow fell to a quarter-final defeat at the eventual cup winners, losing 30-12 at the DIY Kitchens Stadium back in March.

Costello feels his side put in a good performance during that defeat, but understands it will be an even tougher assignment this weekend.

“This will be our biggest challenge of the year without doubt,” the centre added.

JOIN US: Euro 2024 Fan Zone

“I think we gave a decent account of ourselves in the 1895 Cup, but it will mean very little come Sunday.

“We have a lot of competitors in our group, and winning is paramount. The balance of the whole team has been good over the last few weeks, and we’re looking more threatening as a result.

“We have a new task ahead of us on Sunday, so we’ll put our best foot forward, work hard in training and hope to come out on top.”

Photo credit: Mks Rugby Photography

Join the Raid in 2024 – all home match tickets are on sale now!