Championship Preview: Whitehaven v North Wales

Whitehaven coach Dave Woods revealed North Wales Crusaders will be familiar opponents in Sunday’s Kingstone Press Championship clash.

Woods said: “I’ve seen some of their games this year, and they’ve also signed a couple of players we were talking to, so we know a bit about what to expect.

“I’m sure they’ll be ready for this game and will want to make amends for last week.”

Crusaders lost 42-16 at home against Rochdale Hornets, while in contrast Whitehaven won 22-16 against Workington in a performance that left Woods pleased.

He said: “We started off really well and had a good first 20 minutes, and then in the second half we defended well and were really patient.

“That was what we were most happy about – that we stuck to it right to the end.”

Woods will select from a fully fit squad for Sunday’s match, while Crusaders, who are currently 13th in the Kingstone Press Championship, could have Sebastien Martins available.

Crusaders coach Clive Griffiths is demanding a major improvement from last week’s performance.

He said: “We’ve got to put that result right.”