By Helen Thompson

Last updated 16:11, Wednesday, 27 August 2008

WIGAN and former Hensingham star Lee Mossop was due to lead Cumbria into battle last night in the Carnegie Floodlit Nines.

Mossop and brother Jason, from Workington Town, were named in the Cumbria squad for the tournament at Headingley.

Cumbria’s chances may have been hampered in the knockout tournament as a lot of key players are still involved in the National League play-offs.

Barrow were in action last night in NL2 at Doncaster, while Haven and Town are preparing their squads for their respective campaigns and do not want to risk key players. But the players selected were ready to give their all.

James Robinson and Robert Scott make up the contingent from Town, with Daniel Smith, Mark Shackley, Chris Smith, Andrew Jones all playing from Haven, with Marc Bainbridge also a possibility, although there was an injury doubt surrounding the half back.

Gateshead and former Wath Brow flier Stewart Sanderson was included, as were Brett Carter and Scott Kaighan from Barrow.

Former Haven coaching duo Paul Crarey and Peter Smith were set to link up again in the Cumbria set-up. Smith quit as assistant coach at the Recre shortly after Crarey had to step down due to illness but he was excited to be working together again.

“It will be good to be back assisting Paul and getting involved with Cumbria again,” said Smith, who has been concentrating on his other role as head coach of Kells ARLFC.