PETER FOX admits stuttering Hull KR will aim to kick-start their season by putting his home-town club to the sword tomorrow – but he has stressed they won’t take anything for granted.

There had been rumours in Hull that Rovers boss Justin Morgan might rest star Aussies Mick Vella and Ben Galea for the Challenge Cup trip to York City Knights, but both are named in virtually a full-strength 19-man squad as he guards against falling foul of a huge upset.

And former Knights favourite Fox, the York-born England international winger, who has endured an indifferent start to the season himself, has confirmed the Super League giants will take no chances against their part-time opponents.

“We might be favourites but we can’t underestimate anyone,” he said. “We’ve had some poor form and we’re looking to get a good performance, but I’m sure York are as well.

“It will be a good game and hopefully there will be a big crowd and a good atmosphere.”

Asked if there was any nervousness in the Craven Park camp, given their lack of form, he said: “Not really. We’re just wanting to have a good performance and a good win. York will be playing like it’s their grand final and we have to up our game as well.”

Fox, who has been in and out of the Robins side this term and is yet to score in nine appearances, would love to cross the whitewash tomorrow.

“It’s been disappointing so far this year,” said the 26-year-old, who notched 40 tries in 45 appearances for the Knights, including a club record 25 in a season as he helped his home-town club to the 2005 National League Two title, before making his name in Super League.

“I haven’t scored (this year) but hopefully I can move forward now and have a good performance tomorrow. It would be nice to score but it’s not all about that – it’s about my ball-carrying and defending as well.”

Whatever happens on the pitch, Fox is relishing the return to his old stomping ground and meeting up with old friends.

“I’m really looking forward to it,” said the former Acomb-based York Acorn ARLC junior. “The fans were great when I was there and I hope I get a good reception from them.

“I’ve watched a few games there since leaving, though it’s difficult to get down there with our full-time schedule. I still look out for York’s results and keep track of them in The Press, and it will be good to run out on that pitch again.”