Fans kept apart for Shay showdown

northern rail cup: Both Halifax and Featherstone Rovers have urged for calm ahead of tomorrow’s game at The Shay.

Some recent meetings between the clubs have seen violence break out between supporters and so the unusual step of fan segregation has been agreed on Sunday in order to try and avoid any further skirmishes.

On the field, Halifax coach Karl Harrison is hoping to extend the loan period of Wakefield Trinity prop Matt James so he can feature while three-quarter Lee Paterson is available again following a long injury lay-off.

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Prop Luke Ambler is set to make his debut for his hometown club after joining on a month’s loan from Leeds Rhinos.

Featherstone chief Daryl Powell has a doubt over Jon Grayshon (hamstring) and Iain Morrison (knee) is out but he has plenty of depth to his squad as the two unbeaten sides meet up.

Doncaster’s Paul Cooke looks set to miss the South Yorkshire derby against visiting Sheffield Eagles after rolling an ankle in the last tackle of Sunday’s 29-18 defeat versus York City Knights.

They will miss his influence against opponents who showed remarkable spirit to battle back and win from 22-0 down in the final quarter against holders Leigh.

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Sheffield are missing Michael Knowles after he chipped a bone in his wrist and Scott Turner, who dislocated a finger in training.

Hunslet Hawks have completed the signing of leading amateur player Sharlston three-quarter Gareth Davies and he could debut at Leigh as Barry Eaton’s side look to maintain their 100 per cent in the competition.

Dewsbury Rams hope to pick up their first win when they head to Oldham, missing injured duo Rob Spicer and James Craven but welcoming back Aden Faal after a hamstring problem.

Keighley Cougars see ex-Bradford Bulls wing Semi Tadulala return for the trip to Rochdale after the Fijian missed their draw at Toulouse having lost his passport.

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Batley Bulldogs coach John Kear was hoping for no such problems after his side flew there for tonight’s game in France while York coach Chris Thorman may have to juggle his squad for tomorrow’s visit of Gateshead, having also played Swinton on Thursday evening.