Fax ready for top of the table clash

Halifax coach Matt Calland has warned his squad of the importance of Thursday’s televised Co-operative Championship clash with West Yorkshire rivals Featherstone.

Victory for Halifax could put them within one point of the league leaders with just seven games remaining before the play-offs begin.

With the minor premiership up for grabs and Halifax among a group of four clubs with realistic hopes of claiming the title, Calland has stressed the need to pick up maximum points at every opportunity.

Calland said: “It could even go down to points difference this year, so every point matters.”

He continued: “We’ve got a massive game this week but I’m sure the boys will be up for it.

“We love these big games. Featherstone will be fresh but we’ll just have to make sure we’re ready to go on Thursday night.

“If you’re not up for playing the league leaders then you shouldn’t be playing. It’s nice to have some momentum going into this game and I’m sure it will be a cracking game of rugby league.”

Lee Paterson could make his debut for Rovers after agreeing to a switch to the Bigfellas Stadium for the rest of the year.

Jon Grayshon (groin) faces a late fitness test to determine his availability before Daryl Powell finalises his Featherstone squad.