Last updated at 12:00, Thursday, 13 December 2012

Whitehaven are pulling out the stops to give fans a glimpse of their new recruits in pre-season action at the Recre after their planned match against Workington Town was delayed.

Cain Southernwood, James Newton, Neil Thorman, Rees Clarke, Lee Paterson and Paul Jackson

It had been hoped to entertain Workington over the Christmas/New Year period but Town have nine players unavailable due to injuries and suspensions, and the old rivals will now contest the Ike Southward Memorial Trophy when they meet in Championship One action on Good Friday, March 29, at Derwent Park.

Haven are due to travel to Barrow and Carcassonne for friendlies next month, ahead of the Championship opener against visitors York on February 3.

“The plan was to play Workington at home and Barrow away, though things have evolved since then,” said chief executive Barry Richardson.

“We are still trying to arrange a home game for January 13 but it’s proving difficult at the moment.

“We should have had a game against Oldham this year for the SEAT Trophy, but their season does not start until March and they weren’t sure if they were able to play.

“Unfortunately, Leeds didn’t feel they could commit to playing Whitehaven this year, or to the annual dinner up here, due to their commitments with Hunslet, their dual registration club, as well as other commitments.”

Haven have made a string of new signings, including James Newton, Neil Thorman and Cain Southernwood, who might expect to feature in any pre-season game at the Recre.

Fans’ group Haven Horizon will present the club’s season-launch in their first public event, on Saturday, January 19, at 7pm, at the Recreation Ground.

It is part of an Evening with Legends night organised by Horizon and will also provide an opportunity for fans to meet the players. Coach Dave Woods will take part in a question and answer session.

First published at 11:54, Thursday, 13 December 2012
Published by http://www.newsandstar.co.uk