Everything to play for

Aug 23 2007 By Alex Turner, Widnes Weekly News

THE enforced break in National League One this weekend because of the Challenge Cup final has given the promotion-chasing sides time to take stock of their positions.

The battle of the division's heavyweights at Halton Stadium ended with Castleford claiming the points, but the only thing any clearer at full-time was that there is very little between the two teams.

The Vikings and Tigers have set the standard throughout 2007, although it is the Yorkshire side who now top the table by one point with two games remaining.

But Widnes coach Steve McCormack is remaining optimistic, despite relinquishing their long-held lead.

He said: 'There are two games left in the division. It's just about keeping your nerve.

'Nothing has been decided yet.'

But in a season where only Halifax have beaten one of the top two, Widnes have the harder finish with a trek to third-placed Whitehaven - still smarting from their Northern Rail Cup Final embarrassment - next up.

Tigers' coach Terry Matterson is already looking ahead to a home play-off match.

He said: 'I know I would rather play at home for our fans.

'I think we are getting better each time we play Widnes but we have to get to that last game, when I think what has gone before will be forgotten.'

And he acknowledged home advantage has counted for nothing in the two league matches this season, following the Vikings' 44-20 win at The Jungle in May.

Even winning the qualifying semi-final between the top two is expected to provide only a small benefit as both teams should be too strong and experienced for Whitehaven, the only other realistic challengers for a place in the Grand Final.

* Centre Adam Bowman has joined Swinton Lions on a month's loan.

The 19-year-old has been unable to break into the first team this year after making his debut in 2006.