BATLEY Bulldogs will test the young Giants to the full in tomorrow’s trial clash at Mount Pleasant (2.00).

The hosts now have the vast experience of former Giants chief John Kear at the helm, so their fans will have high expectations for the tough Co-operative Championship season ahead.

The appointment of Kear as head coach has certainly had some influence within the transfer market, with the Bulldogs securing the services of the likes of Ben Fisher, Ben Black, Luke Menzies and Gareth Moore.

Former Hull KR hooker Fisher is regarded as Batley’s highest-profile signing, although ex-Halifax half-back Black and another old Hull KR man in utility forward Menzies will also expect to play leading roles.

On top of that, Batley’s former half-back Gareth Moore has followed Kear from Super League Wakefield after failing to make a big top-flight impact.

The 22-year old was a member of the Bulldogs side that won the 2010 Northern Rail Cup and he returns to the Mount after reportedly turning down a number of offers to return to come back.

All of the above will be in contention for the pre-season tie against the Giants, with Batley aiming to build some momentum heading towards the start of their season, particularly after their hard-fought 22-10 midweek triumph at Keighley Cougars.