A magnificent effort in defeat against London Broncos can inspire Whitehaven to their first Championship win on Sunday, hopes chairman Tom Todd.

Against full-time opposition Haven were ahead going into the final quarter of the game and the final 36-20 scoreline was not a fair reflection.

Todd said: “The lads gave everything in the cause, playing their hearts out.

“Considering we were without six members of the squad I thought it was a terrific effort and should give us a lot of confidence going forward.

“I think we were a bit apprehensive after our opening defeat against Swinton but the players showed they can handle it as Broncos were a Super League side last year.

“What we will be looking for now is to build on that performance to record our first win which will set us on our way.”

Haven host Oldham in the match between the two sides who went up from League 1 and have been tipped by the bookies to go straight back down.

Oldham have also lost their opening two games so a win is psychologically important to both teams.

Sunday’s game has a 6.15pm kick-off as it is set to be streamed through the RFL's OuRLeague app for smartphones.

Whitehaven have had to replace the bulbs in their floodlights after a number of years ahead of the game, and that work was completed last week.

Todd said: “As well as the cost of the bulbs we had to hire a cherry picker for their installation and it added up to a not inconsiderable sum.

“We would like to thank A Plant for the equipment we needed to effect the repairs and to B and H Motors for sponsoring this work.

“The club’s thanks also go to our director Paul Shepherd and his son for the splendid job they have done, as well as our excellent ground staff for their help.”

Todd also thanked fans Barry Litt, Alan Charlton, Eric Lewthwaite and Peter Boyle, who raised cash to supply the new club shop which will be open at the game.