Whitehaven's weary troops have been given a week off as they try to recover for the final run in to what has been an extraordinary season.

Operating under sanctions, and unable to boost a depleted squad, it has been quite remarkable that Carl Forster’s men are still in the mix.

Sunday’s 23-14 home loss to Doncaster might have been a killer blow but there were also set backs for Oldham and Hunslet.

Although nothing is certain, it’s beginning to look as though York, Bradford, Workington and Doncaster will occupy four of the five key spots, with Haven battling against Oldham and Hunslet for the other place.

For Whitehaven, the danger is that the rigours of a hard season will take their toll on such a small squad, which is why Forster is keen for his players to relax and rest up this week.

Some members of the team will be travelling to Wembley to watch the Challenge Cup final, with more than a passing interest as Haven lost in France to Catalans Dragons in the sixth round but were regally treated by their hosts afterwards.

Coach Forster, who admitted to being “unbelievably sore in the morning” after the Doncaster game says the break is a much welcome relief for his bruised and battered squad.

“It’s a much-needed weekend off and then we have four cup finals to prepare for. We will keep going until it is mathematically certain one way or the other,” he said.

One of the players who has been nursing an injury for some weeks now, utility man Dan Abram, said: “It was a tough one against Doncaster. Like everyone else, I’m looking forward to a much-needed rest.”

Strong-running winger Dave Thompson, one of Haven’s best on Sunday added: “It wasn’t the result we wanted for the fans, the club and most of all ourselves but I don’t think anyone can fault our effort.

“We gave everything there considering the injured bodies we have. Here’s to a good week’s rest and then on to the next game.”

Enjoying a week off has been a rarity for the Whitehaven team this season and, in hindsight, the Challenge Cup run to the sixth round might have been accomplished at a price.