Aston argues with Hall before play-off

Aston threw down the gauntlet with comments that Halifax would not look forward to facing an Eagles team after a close game between the sides two weeks ago.

Now Hall has cast doubt on some of the Eagles players' ability to cope with the pressure of a high-profile play-off game.

Halifax, he says, have more players who have "played in more important games than this so I don't expect the pressure to have a detrimental effect".

He added: "I'm not so sure that's the case with Sheffield, even though they have players who played in the National League Two Grand Final last year."

But Aston has hit back pointing out that the Eagles' squad includes internationals Jack Howieson (Scotland) and Ged Corcoran (Ireland), former Super League players Richard Newlove and Mitchell Stringer - plus many with Division One experience.

Aston says he felt 'cheated' by some of the refereeing decisions that led to Halifax's tries in their 24-16 win at Don Valley.

He added: "Sheffield Eagles have a lot of quality players who want win for the club - tomorrow is a big game for both clubs and we'll see how things go on the day. But Halifax know they are in for a tough game."

Meanwhile, half-back Gavin Brown is a major doubt for the sudden death play-off. Brown has been one of the form players as the Eagles surged up the division in second half of the season to claim a top-six place. He starts games at scrum-half but switches to hooker of a spell -often the time the Eagles turn-up the heat.

Brown, who faces a late fitness test on a calf strain, said: "I've not been able to train all week. I'll be gutted if I can't play at Halifax - from now on every game is the biggest of the season."If the Eagles overturn the odds and beat Halifax - they will face a trip to Whitehaven in the next round.