Last updated at 10:49, Saturday, 21 July 2012

Whitehaven's out-of-favour players have been urged to be patient as the club’s promotion bid enters its crucial stage.

Bradd Crellin

The likes of Loz Hamzat, Bradd Crellin and Matthew Haggerty have missed out over recent weeks, and winger Chris Fleming failed to get the nod for Thursday night’s clash with Barrow after recovering from a serious shoulder injury suffered in only the third game of the season.

“Chris Fleming was disappointed not to get a start at Barrow, and I understand that, but in our last game the wingers played really well,” coach Don Gailer said.

“The likes of Bradd Crellin and Loz Hamzat are working as hard as they can and waiting for an opportunity. When it comes, they have to make sure they make the most of it. Loz had a good 9s campaign, where he scored a heap of tries.

“I know he’s working on his defence, and you have to think he will be next in line. I definitely won’t make changes just for the sake of it.

“It’s tough now when I name the 17. There was a stage when we were a bit short on numbers, but now we’ve got everyone fit and back on board, there will be disappointments when we name the side.”

In Haven’s last two home games, wingers Craig Calvert and Max Wiper have scored an impressive 10 tries between them.

Gailer hailed the attitude of the versatile Martyn Wilson, whose determination has paid off with appearances in Haven’s last two outings, after only a handful of call-ups earlier in the season.

“It gave him a bit of a spring in his step to play against Oldham, which was good to see,” Gailer added. “He’s had a tough year trying to break in but has worked hard and also played well in the 9s. All players can do is work hard and wait for their chance.”

Improving North Wales could boost Haven’s promotion hopes if they win at fifth-placed Rochdale tomorrow.

Hornets trio Phil Braddish, Johnny Leather and Joe Fitzpatrick face fitness test after missing last week’s training, but coach John Stankevitch is confident all three will be fit.

He said: “If we want to get promoted this year, we’ve got to win every single game we’ve got left.

“We can’t afford to think we can play well in certain games and take our foot off the gas in others, it doesn’t work like that.”

First published at 10:56, Saturday, 21 July 2012
Published by http://www.newsandstar.co.uk