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Rugby League: Haley, Nash both absent? White set for return
HALIFAX coach Matt Calland has given centre James Haley and his potential deputy Dylan Nash just a "50/50 chance" of being fit for tomorrow night's Co operative Championship blockbuster at Widnes.
And their likely absence could mean a backline reshuffle and a recall for winger Paul White, who was not selected for last week's 34-24 win at Batley.
Haley suffered a hamstring injury at Mount Pleasant as Fax made it two wins out of two in league action.
The former Ovenden junior did not train with his teammates on Monday night, placing a major question mark over the availability of one of the club's most consistent performers.
"James couldn't do the full session, so you'd have to say he was doubtful at this stage," said Calland.
"We'll take another look at him tonight, but I think it's unlikely he will be playing.
"It's not the kind of injury you can take a risk with."
Haley's likely absence might have opened the door for Nash, who joined Fax from Gateshead in the close season.
The Australian centre or back rower has made just one competitive appearance - an impressive 20 minute cameo against Dewsbury in the Northern Rail Cup - so far because of back problems, although he did feature in the pre season game at St Helens at the end of January.
Calland confirmed the player was getting closer to full fitness, but hinted the trip to the Halton Stadium was likely to come too soon for him.
"Dylan started training again last week, but he's still a bit sore," said Calland.
"We'll have another look at him tonight, but I won't be picking anyone who isn't 100 per cent ready to play."
If Nash is deemed unavailable, Calland's most likely selection option would involve White, with Lee Paterson shifting from the flank to fill the centre berth.
"Paul was close to playing at Batley, so he could be involved," said Calland.
Salford hooker Jeremy Smith will miss his side's next two Engage Super
League matches after punished for foul play.
The former New Zealand international was given a two-match ban by the Rugby Football League's disciplinary panel after they found him guilty of striking Danny Orr with his forearm during the Reds' 26-22 win over Harlequins.
Smith, who will sit out Salford's trip to Wakefield on Sunday, was also fined 300.
Huddersfield forward Andy Raleigh was freed to play in Saturday's match against Harlequins after avoiding suspension for the second time in six weeks.
The former Hull KR player, who was sin-binned following a flare-up with Leeds forward Ali Lauitiiti during the Giants' 26-20 win over the Rhinos on Sunday, was found guilty of punching his opponent and given a 300 fine.
Raleigh was found guilty of a late tackle during Huddersfield's opening game of the season against Bradford but avoided any suspension due to his previous good behaviour.
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Weather for Halifax
Saturday 11 February 2012
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