Jackson desperate for Cas derby win

Castleford prop Paul Jackson is hoping the Magic Weekend derby clash against Wakefield will help the Tigers get their season back on track.

They were thumped 70-12 by Hull KR on Sunday and have managed just four wins from 14 Super League games so far, while they were also dumped out of the Challenge Cup by Championship side Featherstone.

Jackson, 33, who played for the Wildcats between 1999 and 2002, knows how important a win would be.

He said: “Beating Wakefield at Magic Weekend would be the perfect way to get our season back on track and we’re determined to go there and put in a good performance.

“It was a couple of years ago that I played at Wakefield and I have good friends who play there. There is a huge rivalry between us leading up to the game and there is plenty of banter flying around as we all want the upper hand at the end of the day.

“The lads can’t wait to play at The Etihad Stadium, it’s always nice to play at a big venue. There is always a fantastic atmosphere at Magic Weekend with not only Cas and Wakefield fans but all the fans from Super League which makes it a great occasion.

One of Castleford’s four wins this season was a 36-14 triumph over the Wildcats over the Easter Weekend.

Jackson added: “It’s a really important game for both clubs. We know it will be a tough battle to get the points, it’s never an easy match. Derby games are great, the rivalry between the two clubs always makes it a great occasion and I hope we will come away with the bragging rights.

“We’re working really hard and we’ve been improving over the last few weeks and hopefully we can take that form to the Etihad to make it a weekend to remember for the Cas fans.”

Day tickets for the Magic Weekend are selling fast and cost from just £30 adult and £15 concession. Tickets for the full weekend cost from just £45 adult and £22.50 concessions and are available by calling 0844 856 1113 or by visiting www.rugbyleaguetickets.co.uk.