Thursday 29th July 2010
Halifax prepared for key encounter
Halifax must win Thursday's Sky televised fixture to keep alive their slim hopes of topping the Co-operative Championship.
A second-placed finish is more realistic, and Matt Calland's men know they cannot afford any slip-ups as they battle with Leigh for the runners up position.
Halifax beat Barrow 42-34 last week but coach Calland is demanding more consistency from his side.
He said: "I thought the first-half was our best of the season, but the second definitely wasn't. We did half a day at the office."
Graham Holroyd could return from illness, but forward Said Tamghart (knee) is expected to miss out for the hosts.
Widnes are now battling to hold on to their play-off hopes after suffering five defeats in their last eight league fixtures.
Assistant coach Mick Cassidy said: "It's down to players not performing.
"We have given ourselves loads to do and we have to pick it up."
He added: "It's obvious what the mood is. People are annoyed and angry with their performances."
The Vikings suffered a 38-18 defeat against Leigh on Sunday. James Ford (foot) remains the club's biggest injury concern.
