A Challenge Cup tie scheduled for this weekend has been cancelled after one of the teams withdrew from the competition.
RAF were due to travel to York-based National Conference side Heworth on Saturday. They have now forfeited, so Heworth will play host to Keighley Cougars in a second round clash on January 24/25 with the winners going on to face Midlands Hurricanes or Aberavon Fighting Irish at home in round three two weeks later.
Heworth’s tie against RAF should have been played last Saturday, but was postponed around an hour before kick-off because of a frozen pitch.
The York outfit had earlier declared the game on and the RAF squad, who had travelled separately from different parts of the country, were at the ground when the decision was made.
The game was rearranged for tomorrow, but a statement on social media today (Friday) said: “The RAF Rugby League Association has reluctantly withdrawn from this year’s Challenge Cup round one fixture.
“Last week’s postponement, combined with short-notice operational demands, has left us unable to field a squad that reflects the standards and traditions of the competition.
“Despite exhausting every option, several players are deployed, committed to essential operational duties or unable to be released at short notice.
“We remain immensely proud of our Challenge Cup heritage and appreciate the understanding of the rugby league community as we navigate these operational pressures. We look forward to returning stronger in future competitions.”
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