Last updated at 12:01, Thursday, 26 July 2012

Lewis Palfrey has returned to Whitehaven on loan, just in time for Sunday’s promotion crunch clash at Rochdale Hornets.

Lewis Palfrey

And with the Hornets right on Whitehaven’s heels as the promotion race hots up, it is arguably Haven’s most important game of the season.

The hope is that Palfrey might just make a difference in the run-in.

Palfrey was a familiar figure in Haven colours last season but left the Recreation Ground to step up a division with Batley Bulldogs in the Championship.

Now after about a dozen first team appearances for the Bulldogs but failing to claim a regular place, the 22-year-old is on his way back to add spark to Whitehaven’s promotion bid.

A deal to bring him back on loan – hopefully for the season – has been agreed with Batley and Lewis was due to train at The Recre last season – and put his name to the signing papers.

The ex-Salford City Reds starlet played most of his rugby with Whitehaven under ex-head coach David Seeds at stand-off but despite his obvious talent Haven didn’t always see the best of him.

Now with Batley Bulldogs Championship experience under his belt and guidance from the renowned John Kear, the boy is raring to give it another go under new coach Don Gailer, but this time possibly in a new position of full-back.

The No 1 spot has been filled much of the season so far by Andreas Bauer and, as chief executive Barry Richardson said, the New Zealander has put in some impressive performances.

But what the Kiwi and the young Lancastrian have in common is the versatility to play across the back line while Palfrey is also an accomplished goal-kicker.

First published at 11:28, Thursday, 26 July 2012
Published by http://www.newsandstar.co.uk