Last updated at 12:17, Wednesday, 12 September 2012

PROP Dave Houghton pledged that it is finally Whitehaven’s time to shine in their derby duel against Workington Town on Sunday.

Prop star: Whitehaven’s Dave Houghton

Haven have failed to beat Town in four attempts this term, but Houghton, one of the club’s top performers this term, believes they have huge momentum going in to the sudden death clash.

“If there’s ever a game where we are ready to beat Workington, it’s this one,” he said. “Team spirit is sky high at the minute.

“I know a few fans are giving players stick, but everyone is sticking together and I think we can go all the way.

“Jamie Rooney and Lee Doran have been massive for us and are having a big say in how we play. It is benefiting players who maybe haven’t shone this year.”

Houghton does not believe back-rower Doran, also an assistant coach this term, has been given the credit he deserves.

“He’s more of a players’ player than necessarily a fans’ player, but we have a few like that,” Houghton added. “But they are getting more notice now, especially our forwards.”

Haven came closest to beating Town in their last meeting, at Derwent Park in June, when the hosts won 30-28.

“A couple of times they deserved to beat us, but there’s no way we should have lost the last one,” the prop said. “Our pack dominated theirs and a couple of lucky breaks was the difference. Our pack can handle what they’ve got, but they do really have a good pack.

“Workington have had a good year and been the form side for quite some time. They had injuries and were obviously unlucky not to win it (the title). But this is now a knock-out and anything could happen.”

Houghton declared he was still undecided where his future lies.

“Obviously I would like to stay at Whitehaven,” he said. “Rumours are flying here, there and everywhere, but I haven’t sorted anything.

“I’ll focus on the next few games, hopefully we’ll win the Grand Final, and I’ll take it from there.”

First published at 11:27, Wednesday, 12 September 2012
Published by http://www.newsandstar.co.uk