BLACKBURN Under 14s have been given a bye in the first round of the North West Woodward Trophy.

But they face a tough test at the next stage when they entertain last year's winners Manchester.

The local youngsters had some experience of inter-association football last season having played several challenge matches against associations from Lancashire and West Yorkshire.

Local officials will be planning several more friendly games before the North West cup-tie which must be played on or before Saturday, December 11.

But Blackburn will have to be at their best to move into the next round against a Manchester outfit, who regularly figure in the semi-finals of this competition.

The full first round draw is: Bury v Burnley; Chorley v Liverpool; Tameside v Kirkby/Knowsley; Macclesfield v Wigan; Warrington v Stockport; St Helens v Mid Cheshire; Chester v Rossendale; Blackpool v Wirral. Byes: Rochdale, Salford, Sefton, Trafford, Preston, Blackburn, Manchester, Bolton.

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