LIVERPOOL ST HELENS resume North One West action this Saturday with a potentially difficult trip up the M6 to Carlisle.

Martin Jones’ men could be forgiven for being a little rusty after an enforced four week lay-off, but they cannot afford to be.

Carlisle, after being trounced 52-0 by LSH at the end of September, have begun to turn their season round with subsequent wins against Broughton Park, Wilmslow, Widnes, Aspatria and Anselmians.

Jones is well aware of the threat posed by Saturday’s opponents.

“We’ve done our best to keep everyone fully fit” he said.

“But there is no substitute for match action.

“After a disappointing December we need big performances from everyone to get us back on track.”

With Jan Lourens away, a fit Mark Devine will return at loose head prop with the remainder of the pack likely to be unchanged.

Jones is quick to point out, however, that back row men Jamie Claire and Michael Garrity are pushing the current incumbents very hard.

“We know exactly what Jamie and Mike can do,” he said.

“And their chance will undoubtedly come as the season progresses.”

The situation among the backs is less clear with Neil Hull and John Pape both unavailable while the club are awaiting the outcome of Dave Cunliffe’s disciplinary hearing later this week.

Ollie Griffiths and Matt Gaines may well be given an opportunity to step up to first team duties.