Setback for Leeds after stadium safety fears

(GETTY IMAGES)

Leeds have been forced to close part of their stadium at Headingley for Friday night's Grand Final Qualifier against Wigan because of safety fears for part of the South Stand.

A survey has recommended closing the front half of the covered terrace where the Rhinos' most vociferous fans gather, depriving Leeds of about 3,000 of their usual 22,000 capacity.

The match, which will decide who faces St Helens at Old Trafford eight days later, has been made all-ticket.

The Rhinos' full-back, Brent Webb, who caused concern when he was carried off with a knee injury at Saints last Friday, is expected to be fit for this make-or-break game.

Hull have signed Chris Thorman from Huddersfield on a one-year contract, while former Leeds forward, Chris Feather, has joined Castleford on a one-year contract. The prop joined Bradford in 2007, but his time there has been disrupted by injury.

Salford are in negotiations with Warrington for the early release of the England forward, Rob Parker. The ex-Bradford man is under contract to the Wolves for another season, but they have given the Super League club permission to talk to him. Salford's achievements have been recognised by the naming of Shaun McRae as Coach of the Year and Richard Myler as Young Player of the Year for National League One last night.