Thorman could make surprise return

Chris Thorman could make a surprise return for York’s crucial Co-operative Championship clash with Halifax tonight.

The former Huddersfield, Parramatta and Hull FC ace has been out with a broken thumb, but coach Dave Woods revealed: “Chris trained on Tuesday and came through OK. We’ll make a final decision on Thursday.”

Woods, who has been further boosted by the news that Kristian Brining has agreed a new two-year deal with the club, wants his squad to learn the lessons from their recent 76-38 defeat against Halifax.

Woods said: “We spoke about it on Tuesday night. Halifax embarrassed us at their place, and we were also embarrassed the last time we were on Sky Sports.

“We’ve got two games left, and we need to take something out of this game.

“We know how tough Halifax are, but we’ve got to learn from our last game with them and take advantage of that. We need to compete with them early on, and then lift that level and kick on as the game progresses.”

Fax coach Damian Ball will be hoping for good news on a string of injuries that decimated his squad for last week’s 26-24 triumph over Widnes.

Jim Gannon, Sam Barlow, Sean Penkywicz and Jon Goddard were all missing for the Vikings match.

Last week’s win means Halifax are sure of a place in the Co-operative Championship play-offs, but they could still finish as high as fourth if other results go in their favour.