YORK City Knights boss James Ford says his troops must treat today's Challenge Cup tie at Askam the same as last week's big League One opener against Bradford.

The Knights, setting off for south west Cumbria early this morning, trade underdogs status at home to the former world champions for that of overwhelming favourites away to a village side from the third tier of the amateur game (2.30pm).

But Ford, whose team were unlucky not to beat the Bulls in front of a record crowd at Bootham Crescent, has told his men they must show similar levels of focus for a totally different test in deepest Furness.

"We’ve had a review of the Bradford game and identified a few small areas that we think can make a difference," he said

“It’s about doing the right things consistently, not just when Bradford Bulls are here.

"We want to be a consistent hard-working team that can play with the ball. That starts this weekend.”

Meanwhile, Askam boss Dave Clark, whose team has already taken one Minster city scalp in this year's cup after winning at York Acorn in round one, says his club are relishing what will be a big occasion for their village, having battled their way to round three where League One clubs enter.

“It is a massive game for the boys, a real challenge, and we know what is to be expected against a League One side,” said Clark, who is far from a stranger to pro rugby having coached Workington Town last season and previously Barrow Raiders, where he was also a player.

“It is a perfect draw - you can't wish for anything better than a league club at home.

“We have had two good wins so far - York Acorn away and (National Conference League) premier opposition in West Hull at home. They were two terrific wins and the confidence in the camp is spot-on.

"The boys are keen to play and are very focused. We know what we have to do. I am not too worried about York. I am more interested in our preparation."