Fax had been one of 19 clubs who applied for a place in the top flight via the Rugby Football League's new licencing set up.

In the end, the game's bosses stuck with the 12 current Super League clubs and handed the two additional places to Fax's National League One rivals Celtic Crusaders and Salford.

"As a squad, we haven't really spoken about the franchises because in our own minds we didn't really think we were going to get one," said Holroyd.

"It was a bit of a shock Widnes did not get in, but Celtic obviously have some big plans and they've managed to convince the Rugby League.

"In the end, it's not going to change anything for us, we still want to go and win the comp.

"It's a good chance to go all the way this year, because while Salford were the favourites they haven't really shown up like Castleford and Hull KR did in the last couple of years.

"There's still the £100,000 up for grabs for the winners which would be great for this club and we want to try get our hands on that."

Fax take their title challenge on the road this weekend with a trip to Whitehaven - a ground where they have yet to win since dropping into the National Leagues in 2004.

But Matt Calland's side have comfortably outpointed the Cumbrians twice at the Shay this year and Holroyd believes now is as good a time as any to break their Recreation Ground duck.

"It's going to be a test to see how far we have come this year," he said.

"They are very hard to beat at home, but I think we have a different mentality now.

"There are still a few areas where we need to improve on, and with the kind of teams we are playing in the next few weeks that is going to be paramount.

"We need to keep our completion rate up, keep the defence tight and try and make sure we stay in the top two to give ourselves the best chance."

• Click here to watch highlights of the 26-all draw with Widnes at the Shay