A famous Underbank name will be on the teamsheet for tomorrow’s National Conference League First Division trip to Hull side Myton.
Set to make his debut on the bench is hooker Josh Dixon, the son of former Great Britain prop Paul Dixon, who began his glittering career with the Holmfirth-based club over 35 years ago.
The 23-year-old Josh hasn’t been named in the travelling party for sentimental reasons. Head coach Richard Knight has made it clear he’s there on merit.
But it’s not been lost on Knight that Josh will be carrying on a proud family tradition.
“Josh is a good little player and obviously comes from fantastic rugby league stock,” said Knight, whose side heads to Myton in buoyant mood after their excellent first victory of the campaign at Millom a fortnight ago.
“He’s a different type of player to his dad. He’s a hooker and Paul was a prop.
“But we know Josh has the ability to make a big impression for us.
“He’ll have to wait to come off the bench to show us exactly what he can do at this level, because Stephen Berry is in great form at hooker for us and was outstanding in our win at Millom the other week.
“As a result, I think Steve will play pretty big minutes for us again this weekend, but it’ll be good to see how he and Josh go sharing the role.”
Although Bank have had a fortnight’s break due to Easter, they still have several players sidelined for this weekend’s clash.
New signing Danny Bravo (knee), Andy Boothroyd (shoulder) and Rob Joyce (back) are still about three weeks away from returning from their long-term injuries, while prop Lewis Peet suffered a knee injury in Millom.
But he’ll be replaced by fellow front-rower Dan Farrand, who is available again, while Craig Williams could also be back after his partner recently gave birth to their first child.
Promising 16-year-old winger Tom England retains his place.
