Following the Round 3 and Round 4 draws, here is one of the top ties coming up in the Third Round of the Betfred Challenge Cup.

Hammersmith Hills Hoists v Wests Warriors

London had two community clubs in the hat for the Third Round draw, and the two remaining Southern Conference (SCL) sides have been drawn together for their Round 3 cup tie – in what is predicted to be a mouth-watering clash.

Hammersmith will host Wests Warriors in a home tie, as they continue to make Challenge Cup history. Hammersmith marked an historic achievement for their Club last weekend, as it was the first time the London side have ever reached the Second Round. But following convincing wins against Medway Dragons and West Bowling in the earlier stages, Hammersmith now find themselves in Round 3 of the sport’s prestigious competition.

Similarly, Wests Warriors have deservedly booked their place in Round 3, following wins over Newsome Panthers and Rochdale Mayfield. The Warriors reached the Third Round last year but were heavily defeated by Championship outfit Widnes Vikings, with the Third Round being the further they have ever progressed.

Both teams have knocked out National Conference League (NCL) opposition to reach this round, and this cup tie is significant for another reason – it will be a SCL Grand Final rematch between the two sides, in which Hammersmith triumphed 14-0. The Warriors, who were Grand Final winners for two consecutive years in 2021 and 2022, were unable to retain their title as Hammersmith were crowned 2023 SCL Champions. Therefore, fans should expect a fiery encounter, as the Warriors will be seeking retribution.

Neither side have ever reached a Fourth Round tie before, and there’s only one team who can make it…but who will come out on top?