By Alan Irving

Last updated at 10:43, Monday, 30 July 2012

WHITEHAVEN have re-signed former half-back Lewis Palfrey – just in time for Sunday’s promotion crunch clash at Rochdale Hornets.

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In the circumstances, with the Hornets right on Whitehaven’s heels as the promotion race hots up, it is arguably Haven’s most important game of the season.

And the hope is that Palfrey might just make a difference in the run-in.

Palfrey was a familiar figure in Haven colours last season but left the Recreation Ground to step up a division with Batley Bulldogs in the Championship.

Now after about a dozen first team appearances for the Bulldogs but failing to claim a regular place, the 22-year-old is on his way back to add spark to Whitehaven’s promotion bid.

A deal to bring him back on loan – hopefully for the season – has been agreed with Batley and Lewis was due to train at The Recre last season – and put his name to the signing papers.

The ex-Salford City Reds starlet played most of his rugby with Whitehaven under ex-head coach David Seeds at stand-off but despite his obvious talent Haven didn’t always see the best of him.

Now with Batley Bulldogs Championship experience under his belt and guidance from the renowned John Kear, the boy is raring to give it another go under new coach Don Gailer, but this time possibly in a new position of full-back.

The No 1 spot has been filled much of the season so far by Andreas Bauer and, as chief executive Barry Richardson said, the New Zealander has put in some impressive performances.

But what the Kiwi and the young Lancastrian have in common is the versatility to play across the back line while Palfrey is also an accomplished goal-kicker.

He already booted his way into Whitehaven’s record books becoming the first player to score in all 19 games of a campaign and, from his 21 appearances, ran in six tries.

“The lad is really keen to come back and help us win promotion. We’re delighted to have him back,” said Richardson.

“Last season we might have expected too much of him as a play-maker but he’s still young and what Lewis brings is real pace and his support play ability.”

Palfrey is set to re-appear in Sunday’s away clash with Rochdale which many Haven fans regard as a must win.

Fourth-placed Haven are three points ahead of their opponents and if Gailer’s men can complete the double over Rochdale it will take them comfortably clear with promotion well in their sights – but it’s going to be tough.

Even if Rochdale win, Haven would need only a bonus point to keep their noses in front – but defeat is not contemplated. Hornets have a superior points difference.

“It’s a massive game at a critical time,” says Richardson, “which is why we need everyone to give it their best shot, the players on the field and everyone else to get behind them.”

Haven are smarting from the heavy televised defeat by Barrow who, in turn, clinched promotion.

“It was a very disappointing performance at Barrow but before that we were getting on a roll so we must get back on track this weekend and do our best to pull ourselves clear of the pack – it’s a six pointer,” he stressed.

Coach Gailer put much of the Barrow setback down to match rust after a two-week lay off and is calling for a huge effort to make sure there is no painful sting from the Hornets’ tail.

“Rochdale have a tough run-in, with their last two games against Barrow and Town, but promotion is in our own hands,” he declares.

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First published at 11:10, Thursday, 26 July 2012
Published by http://www.whitehavennews.co.uk