Halifax's veteran threequarter and the Giants' Halifax-born and bred scrum half will be in opposing corners when Matt Calland's National League part timers aim to spring the biggest shock in the club's recent history against their cashed-up neighbours.

But with the Super League licensing process now in full swing, the pair - who were teammates at Castleford for two months during the Tigers' relegation year in 2004 - do have some common ground.

"I'd love to see Halifax back in Super League," enthused 23-year-old Robinson, who hit the headlines as an 11-year-old when he was poached from Siddal's junior ranks by Wigan's legendary scout Eric Hawley.

"It's a hot bed of rugby and I think there are a lot of young kids out there supporting Leeds, Bradford and Huddersfield who should be watching their hometown club.

"Hopefully, Halifax will get a licence because it would be great for the town as a whole.

"It is a rugby town, although some of my mates will go on at me for saying that, but it's the way it is.

"Hopefully, even if they do not get in this time then they will have made a statement about being serious contenders next time round."
Gibson, who is 10 years Robinson's senior, has seen things change dramatically in recent seasons, having featured in the Fax teams that regularly handed out top flight beatings to the Giants just a few short years ago.

"Things have changed massively, because I cannot ever remember playing in a team and losing to Huddersfield," said the Australian.
"The tide has turned and now they are in Super League and Halifax are in the National League.

"But games like this are great for us, bringing Super League clubs here.

"This is how it should be, this is where the club belongs.

"It's a local derby and there's always been a lot of passion between the two clubs.

"If you don't get down to the ground this weekend then you're not a true rugby league supporter."

For Robinson, Sunday's game will bring mixed emotions.

Huddersfield are currently stuck in a losing rut, their latest reverse coming on TV against Wakefield last weekend, and coach Jon Sharp has targeted their visit to the Shay to kickstart their season.

On any other day though, the little half back would have his fingers crossed for a cup shock.

"I always want Halifax to do well, I am Halifax lad at the end of the day," said Robinson, who is in his first season at the Galpharm after a two year stint with Salford.

"I want them to win every game normally – just not on Sunday, because we need to start winning games ourselves.

"My friends and my family will all be wanting me to do well, but Halifax to win."

Match action is available thanks to the co-operation of Halifax Rugby League Club, which is working closely with the Courier to help provide an excellent RL service in the paper and online this season.