Smith ready for play-off challenge

Temporary Whitehaven coach Dave Smith insists they have got the Co-operative Championship 1 Grand Final in their sights, despite Don Gailer's sacking last week.

Gailer was dismissed at the end of August despite leading Haven to promotion with a fourth-placed finish and Smith now leads the side into their play-off clash with Rochdale.

Smith said: "We are preparing for the play-offs and want to go all the way."

He added: "Some of our senior players are taking control and we are playing with a bit more composure and patience.

"We are coming good at the right time of the year."

The Hornets look set to be bolstered by the return of a number of experienced players.

Andy Taylor and Tony Stewart are both available again after returning from holidays, while Stephen Bannister and Dane Donoghue come back into contention after serving one-match bans.

Danny Ekis is also available, having missed last week through work commitments, but Steve McDermott (groin), Gary Middlehurst (suspension), Phil Braddish (suspension) and Chris Hough (suspension) all miss out.