All three West Cumbrian sides will travel in the third round of the Ladbrokes Challenge Cup with amateurs Egremont Rangers going up against pro opponents at York City Knights.

Workington Town were handed a tough tie at fellow League One outfit Newcastle Thunder, while Whitehaven will travel to the winner of West Hull v Thatto Heath.

Egremont spokesman John Brocklebank admitted they were disappointed not to be facing one of the other Cumbrian sides in the draw.

But he said he hoped they would take a good crowd to York that would maybe see them through.

"We are going to be practical about it," said Brocklebank. "We don't know a lot about them but we are going to go there with a game plan and give it our best shot.

"We would have loved to have been drawn against a local side, it would have been good for the area but we have to get on with what we have.

"This is a very prestigious cup and we want to reach the next round but it will be tough battle.

"Hopefully, we can take a big crowd down with us and maybe they will pull us through."

Town were handed one of the toughest matches when the draw was made last night.

It now means they will face Newcastle twice in two weeks, first in this Challenge Cup clash on February 26 in the north east and then a week later at Derwent Park in the league.

Workington Town chairman Garry Mounsey said: "Of course, like all clubs we would have preferred a home draw, but if were going to progress in the competition, we'll need to beat whoever is put in front of us at any stage.

"Thunder are a strong well-drilled team but so are we.

"It should be a cracking match and as we are improving every time we play I'm very confident."

Whitehaven must wait to see whether they will play West Hull or Thatto Heath as the sides have not yet met in the first round.

But general manager Amanda Hewer says they won't be taking either of them lightly.

She said: "We are disappointed to have an away game but we will never underestimate any amateur side, especially at the standard of West Hull and Thatto Heath.

"That is what makes the Challenge Cup special where amateur clubs meet pro clubs. We will look forward to the game ahead."