By Martin Mor gan

Last updated at 12:16, Wednesday, 03 August 2011

New boys Aspatria Hornets face a baptism of fire in the opening round of the BARLA County Cup against amateur giants Kells.

Aspatria will host the September 17 tie against one of the sport’s best-established clubs, who include the likes of long-time BARLA Great Britain centre Scott Lofthouse in their ranks, and it is a challenge they are relishing.

“We could not ask for a tougher task.

“I was excited when I saw the draw,” said Aspatria’s Craig Hamilton. “I played against Kells when at Glasson and they are a class act.”

The Cumberland League newcomers play their first friendly at Maryport on Friday and open their league account in the final truncated winter season on August 20 at Salterbeck A, in a Group C mini-league clash.

“We have a few challenges in that league, and hopefully a few we can win as well,” added Hamilton.

“Maryport will give us a benchmark on Friday. I’m looking forward to seeing where we’re at. It’s an exciting time.”

Holders Seaton will host Hensingham in their Iggesund County Cup opener while last season’s beaten finalists Distington travel to Ellenborough.

League champs Seaton entertain Wath Brow in their first outing in Group A, ahead of the switch to summer in 2012, Cockermouth host Kells and Glasson travel to Distington.

Ex-Whitehaven and Workington Town boss Ged Stokes, also a former assistant coach of the New Zealand national team, will again be in charge of Cockermouth after stepping in late last season. “He’s an ex-international coach and we are really happy to get him,” said club chairman Paul Henson. “We couldn’t have asked for any more, and hopefully the lads will appreciate him.”

Cockermouth finished fifth in Division One last term and more of last season’s successful Under-16s will filter in to the team this term.

“Hopefully they will get used to it by the time the summer season starts next year,” Henson added.

First published at 11:30, Wednesday, 03 August 2011
Published by http://www.newsandstar.co.uk