WHITEHAVEN head coach Anthony Murray said it was “massively important” for his side to get a run-out away at Barrow last week.
Haven travelled to their Cumbrian rivals on Tuesday after their initial fixture was postponed two days earlier.
Murray got a look at his newly-assembled squad, and handed appearances to trialists Emerson Allen, Aaron Burns and Ben Atkinson, in the 42-4 defeat.
“We needed to give our trialists the chance to play but also give opportunities to those outside of the usual 19-man squad,” Murray said.
“Sixteen or 17 players made their professional debuts so it was important some of those lads got experience under their belts going into the new season.
“We needed to have a good look at how they stood up to the challenge physically and positionally.
“It gave us a really good indicator. We worked on a lot and there is still lots to work on but I was pleased with their effort and enthusiasm.
“There were some really good performances from our inexperienced lads so I am pleased with what we dished up.”
