Relegation haunted Haven ready for Fev

Whitehaven duo Rob Jackson (broken cheekbone) and Chris Smith (ribs) are both ruled out this week.

Coach Ged Stokes believes Smith may need up to three weeks to recover from his injury, while the length of Jackson’s absence has yet to be determined.

Stokes knows his side must win as time ticks away on their chances of remaining in the Co-operative Championship.

“Every game is now a big game for us,” said Stokes. “It’s been an exceptionally hard year for many reasons.

“We’ll go out there and give it our best shot, there’s no doubt about that.

“We’ve got a group of players that are very committed to the club. We’re still a nice tight group. The players want to get out there and do their best for the club.”

He added: “Featherstone are a very fine outfit. They’re well coached and they’ve got some very experienced and high quality players. We know exactly what sort of a challenge we’re facing.”

Table-topping Rovers have doubts over Sam Smeaton, who twisted an ankle during last weekend’s Northern Rail 9s competition.

Featherstone’s Papua New Guinean centre Jessie Joe Parker remains on compassionate leave.