NRC Preview: Sheffield v Halifax

Ryan Hepworth is set to return for the Eagles at Don Valley Stadium after completing his three-match suspension.

Sheffield coach Mark Aston saw his team convincingly beat York on Sunday, but insists Halifax will pose an entirely different challenge.

He said: “Halifax will be one of the strongest teams in the competition. They are the bookies’ favourites to win the Northern Rail Cup.

“They will come here determined because we put it over them a couple of times in the Championship last season.”

Halifax duo Stanley Gene and Mark Gleeson are set to return to Matt Calland’s squad following Sunday’s 68-0 romp at London Skolars.

Calland said: “They should be nice and fresh for Wednesday.”