The draw for the NWML Shield Preliminary Round has been made and thrown up an intriguing match up for West Bank Open Age 2nd team. The 1st team have been given a bye in the NWML Cup for Premier and 1st division teams.

The Bears have been drawn against rivals 'The Maries' the week before the same two teams meet in the first game of the league season.

The shield is restricted to teams from the NWML division 4 sides.

The full draw is:

St Maries Vikings A v West Bank Bears A

Manchester Rangers v Rochdale Cobras

Culcheth Eagles v Bury Broncos A

Chester Gladiators A v Runcorn

Rylands Sharks A v Cadishead Rhinos

Chester Gladiators v Westhoughton Lions