Forget that sideshow in Gorton this weekend, there’s only one game in town - and Hornets fans been waiting for this one with real relish. A month ago, an admittedly below par Hornets were battling back against Whitehaven when Leroy Joe jumped in on Dave Stephenson in a quite deliberate attempt to incapacitate him. Stevo went to Hospital, Leroy Joe went on to win the game.

Those Hornets fans that made the trip - and a sizeable number of ‘Haven fans - were disgusted and amazed at the severity of the ‘tackle and the leniency of the referee.

Sunday gives Hornets a chance to get one back over ‘Haven and continue our revival in the all-important run-in.

Last week’s win over Sheffield was consummate in its execution - ruthless on attack and defence, the Eagles were simply blown apart. Having edged past Oldham with a last seconds breakaway try last week, Whitehaven have a robust, uncompromising style - and a reputation for not travelling too well (indeed, even the trip to Barrow saw then tonked by over 40 points).

Hally will be keen to maintain last week’s momentum and should be looking for as close to the same 17 as possible. The half-back partnership of Ayres and Smith was a delight to watch as they mixed and matched the moves which opened up huge holes for their team mates to exploit. More of the same this week would be very welcome.

With Smithy at 6, Damian Ball has a little more room to work at 13 and looked a better player for it - tricky and industrious - whilst Joe Berry, Wes Rogers, Stevo and Longy give us bustling go-forward at prop.

New wing partnership Wayne McHugh and Iain HIggins looks pacy and strong, complementing Hornets two ‘enforcers’ at centre Matt Calland and Brendan O’Meara, who’s currently playing out of his skin.

Only doubt might be Richard Pachniuk who left the field with a nasty cut to his eye late in proceedings last week - Hally will no doubt wait and see how that goes before making a decision.

This game is a very exciting prospect indeed. Hornets need the points to maintain our challenge, Whitehaven need the points to maintain a foothold in the top nine - and there’s the added spice of the Stevo/Joe rematch.

If there was a game not to miss - and a game you should bring a mate to - this really would be on the list. There’s a tangible crackle in the air over this one and our club deserves the best support we can give them this weekend.

Our input is as important as the 17 that take to the field - and the opportunity to laugh at Leroy Joe as Hornets send him home with his tail between his legs is way too good to miss.

The big games in the run-in start here. Get on board - it’s going to be one helluva ride. See you Sunday - no excuses.