Rugby League: Hanley prepares for action

BRADFORD HAVE signed the prop forward Harvey Howard on loan from the Western Suburbs club in Sydney for the rest of the season, writes Dave Hadfield.

The Bulls expect Howard, who would have been in the Great Britain squad against Australia last autumn but for problems gaining clearance, to make his debut at home to Castleford on Monday.

It is a match in which the Bulls' faltering attempt to retain their Super League crown could be under more threat, because if London win at Salford tomorrow they will be level with the Yorkshire side on points. The Broncos are without Terry Matterson, who will return to Australia at the end of this season.

Paul Johnson makes his first start of the season for Wigan against Huddersfield. Wigan also bring in Lee Gilmour in the second row for the suspended Mick Cassidy.

St Helens face Halifax at Knowsley Road, but their new coach, Ellery Hanley, will not be there as he already has a prior engagement. Hanley has signed a two-year contract with Saints, but their present coach, Shaun McRae, will stay in charge until the end of the season.

At Post Office Road, Featherstone Rovers will know by kick-off time what they must do to win a place in the First Division play-offs. If Swinton have beaten Whitehaven, Featherstone will have to beat Leigh by 32 points or more to climb above Hunslet and claim fifth spot.