Mike Eccles confirmed his squad is “chomping at the bit” ahead of Sunday’s Betfred Championship Season Opener at the Cherry Red Records Stadium against Batley Bulldogs.
Following three months of pre-season training, the Broncos’ 2023 campaign begins against last year’s Million Pound Game finalists and Eccles is determined to start the season on a winning note.
He reported a clean bill of health ahead of kick-off and has called on supporters to turn out in force and mark the beginning of this year’s Championship with a bang.
On the opposite side of the pitch, Eccles believes Batley will provide a tough first test for the Broncos but hopes to keep the club’s positive recent record against the west Yorkshire outfit flowing.
“We’ve come through pre-season unscathed and the boys are chomping at the bit for Sunday,” said Eccles. “They’ve been training for three months now, and everyone is looking forward to it.
“This is it now – the business side of the campaign is about to start and there’ll be a distinct shift in mentality from now.
“It doesn’t get much tougher than Batley for our opening game. They reached the Million Pound Game last year and Craig Lingard (Head Coach) has done a fantastic job. They’ve had their team together for a long time and have recruited well so this is as tough as games come.
“We’ve retained most of the players we wanted to retain from last season and I’m pleased with our additions. There is an element of entering the unknown in the opening weeks with clubs recruiting players who are new to the league.
“But we don’t overly look into other teams, we tend to focus on ourselves and what’s within our control. The off-season is always long, and we look forward to welcoming supporters back to the ground whose energy and enthusiasm does make a real difference.”
Tickets for the Broncos’ Betfred Championship Season Opener against Batley Bulldogs are on sale now and can be purchased by clicking here. Kick-off is at 3pm.
Before the game, the club will launch its all-new Fan Village and Broncos Bar. Plus club mascots Buck and Dusty will make a popular return.
Pre-match activities on the day include an inflatable assault course, face painting, a special player visit and a kid’s confectionary stand. A number of food and drink outlets – including premium coffee served by club sponsors Stubborn Rhino – will be available too.