Barlow signed for York from Batley

York City Knights utility player Mark Barlow says they will benefit from taking on Super League opposition in the Challenge Cup.

He was part of the team that lost 64-22 to Hull KR in the fourth round tie.

The ex-Batley player told BBC Radio York: "The first 10 minutes they came out of the blocks really fast and we couldn't really handle them.

"There were some very big guys but it's enjoyable because you are testing yourself. What else can you do?"

He added: "It took us a while to get into the game but once we did we thought 'they're not that better than us' and we started to enjoy the game and started to play how we play.

I think it's come at a bad time, this Challenge Cup job. We're on a bit of a roll with the league Mark Barlow

"We just did set it by set and we tried to get into the game and I think in parts we did do that.

"It was tough but I think all the lads enjoyed it playing against Super League players and you just hopefully turn up for 80 minutes and try and do a job on them.

"There's nothing else you can do. You've got to turn up and do your normal game and see what happens."

The Knights return to Championship action next week at Barrow Raiders.

Barlow continued: "I think it's come at a bad time, this Challenge Cup job. We're on a bit of a roll with the league and that's our bread and butter.

"We want to get as far as possible in the league and this has interrupted it. But this has been a nice enjoyment today and hopefully a good win at Barrow next week will set us up."

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