Championship side Barrow Raiders have made a plea for support, after circumstances out of their control have left them at risk of monetary issues.
The Cumbrian side, who have been “given the worst possible draw” in the 1895 Cup, travel to London Broncos in the preliminary round.
Not only do they have to face the second tier favourites, but they will also embark on a 600-mile round trip – something that no other club will have to factor in.
With away trips like this, the norm is to stay over the night before, and travel back after the game, but given that Barrow don’t have a home game between February and March, it leaves them in a place of unusual financial uncertainty.
The club would have played Halifax Panthers in March, but their liquidation means the game will now not go ahead, leaving the current table-toppers in a spot of bother.
Any team having no home games for a two-month period is not a normality, and the extra financial pressure of a trip to the capital only adds to their concerns.
The Raiders have reiterated that, without this abnormality, they would not be in this scenario, and stated that the club is fully up to date with player wages, pensions, HMRC, and have “a cash buffer in the bank that would be adequate in normal circumstances.”
Barrow are appealing for sponsors to cover the cost of their trip, something that would cost in the region of £5,000.
The news of the Cumbrian side’s issues comes at a time when the Championship is already in disarray, and three clubs have entered liquidation since December.
Salford, who have since rebirthed, as well as Featherstone and Fax, have all gone under, and whilst it shouldn’t get to that stage with Barrow, there is major concerns for the long-term sustainability of the second tier.
Barrow’s full statement can be read here.
Fellow Championship side record profit despite poor 2025 campaign
Barrow’s Championship competitors, Hunslet, have also released a statement regarding money, though theirs is a lot more positive.
The Leeds-based side have confirmed that, through the 2025 financial year, they have achieved a profit of £62,000 – as a result of increased revenues, attendances and controlled expenditure.
The club have confirmed that all of that surplus will go directly into the playing squad for 2026, as they look to achieve success on the field as well as off it.
Commenting on the good news, Hunslet CEO Neil Hampshire said: “These results represent an important step forward for the Club.
“Increased crowds show supporters continue to believe in what we’re building, and careful financial management has allowed us to finish the year in a strong position.
“We are grateful to our supporters for their patience in what was a difficult season and to all our sponsors, who continue to back us.
“Obviously, we all wanted more success on the field in 2025, but sustainable growth and the long-term viability of the club remains our absolute priority.”
