With Hornets kicking their heels on what for many is still 'Challenge Cup weekend', we take a look at the alternatives to watching Leicester v Saracens through half closed eyes and thinking "when will these fat b*stards ever make a proper tackle".

If you fancy the drive you could head out tonight for Dull KR v Salford. Or for a similar feeling you could watch paint dry whilst sitting in a bath of bleach. Alternatively, you could thread another bead on your abacus and drop in on Saints v Batley. Hmm, thought not.

Saturday it's Leeds v London - but as it's on the telly why bother getting the car out? Saturday night sees Castleford play Leigh in a friendly - as intriuguing an evening as reading the phone book. For Aberdeen.

Sunday you're spoilt for choice. In the 'Late Trains Cup' the Biffs take on Barrow at Borrowed park. Yes, yes, we know it's convenient, but you'll hate yourself afterwards. Oldham + Barrow = tedium - ten quid. It's not a hard equation.

For the real masochists amongst you, you could drive to Whitehaven to see them play
Workington. But as driving to Whitehaven's a drag when even we're playing there, an afternoon spent amongst West Cumbria's finest is probably not high on your agenda.

So what about the Cup itself. Doncaster v Wigan - punch-up and a drubbing. Hunslet v Bradford - just the drubbing, thanks. For those with a cast iron constitution, Sheffield v Hull at the new Kingston Communications Stadium gives you the chance to tick off a new ground - our advice: leave before the game starts, it won't be pretty.

Undoubtedly, the least attractove fixture of the day takes place at Belle Vue where Wakefield Trinity Wildcats play Widnes Vikings. Just saying it makes you screw your frace up in distaste. 80 minutes of that? Nein danke.

The two games remaining both deserve your support more than any of the others put together.

BARLA Emerging England take on the full French side at Post Office Road. For interest and something different, this beats the drive to Oldham hands down. It's always good to grab an international where you can - if only to remind yourself that Rugby League exists beyond the north of England.

But we'll all be at Swinton v Featherstone. I'm a firm believer in giving my support to the games that really need it - and it's our mates from Moor Lane that'll be getting my tenner. It'll be a close game with a bit of needle. Ex-Fev coach peter Roe will be keen to pull off a cup shock and take the Lions into the last eight. It's also a chance to see Brendan O'Meara in action - and Richard Agar's inaction. It'll be a blood and thunder, no-holds-barred, good old-fashioned Cup tie with a great opportunity for the winner.

Go on - you know you want to.

We'll see you there!