Matterson puts case forward for different licence agenda

Castleford head to Hull KR tomorrow with much of the recent talk being about their need for a new stadium to satisfy the RFL when licences are awarded again next year.

But, having guided Tigers to seventh last season, their first play-off spot since 2002, the unfashionable West Yorkshire club can upset the odds again and reach the finals once more.

Victory at Craven Park will see them hold the all-important eighth spot with just three rounds to go yet they remain one of the Super League clubs apparently under threat of expulsion for 2012.

Matterson said: "People talk about ground infrastructure and stadiums whenever licences come up but on-field performances should be as important as anything.

"Junior development, finance and football should come first with stadium matters probably about fourth.

"Wigan are a good example; they've had a great stadium for ages but couldn't even play a semi-final a few years ago.

"I want us to consistently be in the top eight. We had a good year last year and if we can reach it again with the resources we've got it augurs well for the future.

"If we can do this while we're not spending near the full salary cap imagine what we can do when we do have more money to spend, which is the plan."

Last week's late loss at Crusaders left the dangerous Welshman just two points adrift of Tigers with a game in hand so they are under pressure to bounce back swiftly.

However, Hull KR, who can confirm their own play-off place with victory, have won their last five games on home turf and suffered defeat at Craven Park just once in four months.

Castleford are also without prop Paul Jackson (neck) who has been ruled out for the rest of the season while there are doubts about fellow front-rower Liam Higgins's fitness but Matterson is undaunted.

"It's up to us now," he said.

"We've put ourselves in this position and I've been fairly happy with our performances over the last eight weeks.

"It's a tough ask as Rovers have great home form but we haven't any fears and know we can win there if we perform."

Hull KR coach Justin Morgan should have hooker Josh Hodgson back from injury as they bid to build on last week's 49-24 success over Bradford.

But he said: "We need to improve our intensity.

"We were too loose and all know Castleford are going to be very motivated."