Barrow head coach Paul Crarey is excited to see his side mix it with the very best in the Betfred Championship this season. 

The Raiders will make their return to the division after being promoted in 2021, and begin with a stern test against the Eagles. 

The game will take place this Sunday at the Matt Johnson Prestige Stadium, with kick-off at 3pm. 

Crarey insists his first team squad are prepared for the rigours of the Championship, but admits they will need to show plenty of fighting spirit to open up the 2022 season with a victory on home soil.

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“I think we’ve worked really hard,” he said. “We’ve got a fine record at home and haven’t been beaten at home for two years.

“All the games we’ve played [against Sheffield Eagles] have been really tight, so it’ll be a big test. 

“Hopefully we’ll win that battle up-front and find out what the Championship is like on our return.”

The Raiders enjoyed a 100% unbeaten record in pre-season, with success against Workington Town and Newcastle Thunder. 

Their third friendly against North Wales Crusaders was postponed due to injuries and positive Covid-19 cases in the visitors’ playing group. 

Victory over Thunder was particularly impressive, with the Raiders coming from behind at the Matt Johnson Prestige Stadium to score 22 unanswered points against full-time opposition.

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On home soil again, Crarey is hoping a vocal support can see his side over the line as they look to open their 2022 league account with two competition points. 

“It’s important that everyone gets behind us,” he said. “I think we’ve sold over 700 season tickets, the most we’ve had for a long time. 

“There’s a lot of people talking about the game and how well we played against Newcastle [Thunder]. It’s important that we put on a show for them and give it our best shot.

“The Championship is a brutal place to be, but we’re at home and we aim to give it our best shot for the fans who were magnificent last year. 

“It’s a different ball game. These lads are hardened Championship players who are coming to town, and we’ve got to be ready for them.”

Purchase your tickets ahead of Sunday’s game and receive reduced prices for adults and concessions.