The forthcoming third round of the Challenge Cup is poised to illuminate the amateur Rugby League scene in the southern region, as London rivals Hammersmith Hills Hoists and Wests Warriors prepare for a captivating showdown. The event is scheduled to take place at Chiswick RU Club, situated in the western sector of the capital city of London.
These Southern Conference League adversaries are the only remaining contenders from the initial pool of 20 amateur clubs that participated in the opening round last month. The victor of this encounter will secure a place in the fourth round, where they will compete against either Halifax Panthers or Whitehaven, further heightening the anticipation surrounding this highly awaited match.
Hills Hoists, representing the renowned rotary washing line brand from Australia, clinched the title of champions after triumphing over Wests with a score of 14-0 during the Grand Final at Hemel Stags last September. Conversely, Wests Warriors, established in 2014, emerged victorious in the previous rounds by defeating the Yorkshire Men’s League champions Newsome Panthers and Rochdale Mayfield, thereby showcasing their prowess on the field.
The admirable progress of the two London-based teams has prompted calls for the Rugby Football League (RFL) to elevate the profile of the Southern Conference League and take proactive measures to nurture the sport in the capital. The imminent inclusion of London Skolars in the SCL will bring the total number of clubs to nine, promising an eventful and compelling season ahead.
Jared Warren, assistant to Hills Hoists coach Vince Spurr, conveyed his enthusiasm for the upcoming cup tie and the opportunity to defend their SCL title. He underscored the team’s unwavering dedication and fervor, emphasizing their resilience in the face of disruptions caused by the pandemic. The players eagerly anticipate the clash with Wests Warriors, spurred on by the prospect of potentially facing a Championship team in the subsequent round.
As the third round of the Challenge Cup approaches, attention is focused on the amateur Rugby League scene in London and the south, as these two formidable teams prepare to battle it out on the field. The impending match promises to offer a riveting showcase of skill and sportsmanship, symbolizing the escalating significance of Rugby League in the southern regions of the country.