Workington Town second row Brett Phillips is looking forward to facing his hometown club on Saturday afternoon in the opening game of the Summer Bash (2.30pm).
Phillips, who was in born in Whitehaven, signed for their arch rivals ahead of the 2012 season from local community club Seaton Rangers.
Despite only three games won so far this season, the Scottish international insists that things are different when it’s the Cumbrian derby.
“There’s always a different feel to the game when we come up against Whitehaven,” he said.
“They’re really special games and great games to be a part of. Hopefully it will be just as special down in Blackpool this weekend.
“For ourselves, getting two points is important going forward if we want to finish the season well. We’re down near the bottom at the moment so it’s not going to be easy.”
Phillips hopes that fans from both teams make the trip down to Blackpool over the two days to enjoy an action-packed weekend of Rugby League.
“It’d be great if fans can get down for the Summer Bash and support their teams,” he said.
“It will feel weird playing them (Whitehaven) at a neutral venue, but it gives everyone else a chance to see how good the derby is between us and Whitehaven.
“Both teams need the two points as much as each other, but hopefully it will be us on the long trip back to Cumbria going home as winners.”
