BOBBIE Goulding is buzzing as he gears up Rochdale Hornets for tomorrow's plum Challenge Cup clash with Warrington Wolves.

He admits being as excited as a kid on Christmas Eve going into the game - but, inwardly, the little man is hurting.

A troublesome ankle injury is still not right, so underdogs Hornets will go into battle without their charismatic player-coach.

Bobbie, who became Spotland boss at the end of last year, told M.E.N. Sport: "I'd love to get my boots on and play but it's impossible.

"I'd give anything to be out there. Not playing really hurts because I always do well against Warrington.

"Their fans have given me stick big time over the years and I've always enjoyed a ding-dong battle with the Wolves."

Bobbie is a Widnes lad who got his kicks as a player from leading rugby rivals Warrington a merry dance.

His Hornets lads must now go it alone, but Bobbie has a simple directive for a team made up of seasoned professionals, journeymen and highly talented juniors.

Test

He said: "Warrington will be a good test - tough opponents. It's a benchmark. Yet I'll be happy to see 100 per cent commitment from everyone of my lads. I've told them that I can't ask for any more.

"I'm looking forward to the game. It will be great to meet up with their coach Paul Cullen again.

"He's done a fantastic job for the Wolves. They have got class throughout their ranks, and could finish fourth or fifth in Super League this season."

Super League is a far cry from the humble National League surrounds Goulding now finds himself in. But he no regrets and says: "I'm loving it here at Rochdale. It's a learning curve for me but a good one.

"I've always had confidence in my ability to coach. It's not been easy having to bring in so many players, but we now have a 21-man squad .

"The lads have been superb, and if we steer clear of injury we'll be there or thereabouts at the end of the season."

Affinity

Goulding has a special affinity for the Challenge Cup, having played in five finals for three different clubs.

He adds: "The Challenge Cup is the best competition in the world in my view - it has a special magic.

"Our Cup match with Warrington is what the competition is all about. My lads will look forward to it. They know what to expect.

"I'm pleased with how things are going. Ray Taylor, our chairman, is a really good bloke - we're all simply doing the best for Hornets."

Warrington are expected to be at full strength, and looking to build on their opening Super League victory against Wakefield.

Joel Caine is Salford's big doubt for Sunday's Cup game at London.

If he misses out, Scott Naylor could replace him after overcoming a hamstring injury.

Caine is desperate to face London having guested for the Broncos towards the end of last season.

Reds football director Steve Simms says: "We're expecting a tough game. From a financial point of view we could have had a better tie, but we just have to get on with what we've been given."

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