As survival fighters go head to head

Taira grabbing a consolation just before the hooter signalled a 30-24 defeat.

With Swinton picking up a 35-28 triumph over Dewsbury it closed the gap between the three clubs to one point.

Now, the Lions and Hornets go head-to-head in possibly the most important game of the Championship season to date.

With both sides picking up a win each in their previous meetings this year it has set up a tense and intriguing encounter.

Rochdale were left heartbroken by their opponents on Easter Monday, as Chris Atkin’s drop-goal was the difference in a 23-22 loss at Heywood Road.

More recently, the two met at The Crown Oil Arena in Round 21 where the Hornets gained revenge in a victory head coach Kilshaw described as the most courageous in his time at the club.

They came out on top 33-28 in a dramatic encounter, with a late Massam try sealing the win, despite Atkin’s best efforts to snatch another win in his final game for Swinton, as he has since moved to Hull KR.

Danny Yates, Maneely, Josh Crowley, Eccleston and Jono Smith were also on the scoresheet, with Lewis Foster knocking over the one pointer.

Hornets face more injury woes ahead of their latest derby clash, as Smith and Gary Middlehurst have both been ruled out for the season, with the former picking up a second concussion in three weeks and the latter suffering a broken thumb.

Massam will also miss the remaining three games despite making his return from injury on Monday, as he takes time away for his wedding and honeymoon.

They should be boosted by Crowley and Foster returning to the squad though, with Ben Moores serving the final game of his suspension.