Fax's Ben determined to take chance ahead of Batley trip

Heaton, one of the successes of Fax’s stellar 2015 season, has been sidelined over the last month with boss Richard Marshall preferring Sam Smeaton at centre.

But with Fax’s right side defensive issues continuing, Heaton played alongside Smeaton in the second row against the Vikings, walking off with the Man of the Match award and in all likelihood securing a place in Marshall’s side for Sunday’s crucial Championship date at Batley (3.0).

“It’s been a while since I played,” admitted Heaton.

“I just wanted to be on the pitch, whether it was centre, wing or back row, and there was no way I was coming off without taking my chance.

“I worked hard for the team and as a team performance it was up there with anything we have done this year.

“Personally speaking, it does get frustrating, because we’ve not been at our best over the last few weeks and it’s hard not being in the side when you feel you can do a good job for the team.

“But I’ve bided my time and I said to Rich last week that if he put me on the pitch against Widnes I would do a job for him; he gave me the chance and I don’t think I let him down.

“Something seemed to click, we came together as a team and hopefully we can kick on now into the second half of the league season.

“We need to keep that intensity right up there, not let it drop off.

“It’s not easy, but it’s about mental toughness; you have to have the willingness to work that hard for your teammates every week.”