CH preview: Whitehaven v Swinton (Sun)

Whitehaven coach Dave Woods has challenged his squad to finish the year on a high – as a thank you to the club’s loyal supporters.

Woods’ men are now almost certain to miss the play-offs after a recent collapse in form.

But the Australian coach is determined to go out on a high. He said: “It’s very important we finish the year on a win.

“This week is about doing it for the fans and saying thanks for their support over the year.”

He added: “We’ve blown it ourselves, but for us to finish ninth is a great season. For us to make semi-finals would have been an absolutely outstanding.

“When you look at the bigger picture, see it’s our first year back up and see the salary cap we’re using compared to others, it’s been a good year for us.”

Woods is reporting a fully fit squad, while Ritchie Hawkyard returns for the Lions as they battle against the drop.

Swinton coach Gary Chambers must secure a win against his hometown team in order to guarantee the Lions’ place in the Kingstone Press Championship next season.

Chambers said: “I’m passionate about where I’m from and I’m proud of where I’m from, but for this 80 minutes we’ve got to try to turn them over.

“They’re well coached, they’ve got good players, and they could turn their form around at any time.”