That's the message from veteran utility back Damian Gibson ahead of Sunday's National League One showdown with Widnes at the Shay.

Second placed Fax, who will be looking for a win to keep up the pressure on leaders Salford, were struck by a glut of injury problems in their 34-22 victory over Leigh a week ago.

Long term absentees David Larder (broken jaw), Jon Goddard (torn bicep) and Dana Wilson (broken arm) are all out, along with captain Sean Penkywicz, who had surgery on his hand on Monday.

And livewire full back Miles Greenwood is rated as "extremely doubtful" after injuring his leg against the Centurions.

But Gibson reckons that adversity will bring the best out of Matt Calland's title chasers.

"There'll be a lot of changes on Sunday, that's for sure," admitted Gibson.

"The Leigh game was an expensive win with all the injuries in the second half and that could hurt us in the next few weeks.

"All you want from any game is three points, but we paid a high price for them.

"But hopefully with the squad we have put together we will come through it.

"It's at times like this that champion teams really show their quality and I'm sure that's what we will do.

"We had our backs against the wall against Leigh and we came through and we need to keep doing that."

Gibson, the club's veteran player-conditioner, could even feature against Steve McCormack's side, even though he has only been given the all clear after a serious back injury in the last seven days.

"I am nearly fit again, it's been six weeks now and it's been frustrating sitting on the sidelines and running water," said the Australian.

"I injured myself being a bit silly in the gym, trying to lift too much weight and ended up pulling a muscle in my back.

"I got the all clear this week and I've just started training again so we'll have to see.

"Jon Goddard is out, but with Mike Ratu and Lee Greenwood not playing the last few weeks, we still have plenty of options."


HALIFAX'S summer skills camps, run by development boss Frank Watene, start next week at Brighouse Sports Club, Bradford Road.

Running Tuesday to Thursday between 10 am and 3pm, cost is £3.50 per day per child for seven to 11 year olds.

Further sessions at Ovenden RLFC, are scheduled for August 5, 6 and 7, with sessions open to boys and girls aged eight to 16.

Further details are available from Calderdale Coaching Trust co ordinator Malcolm Kielty on mail@malcolmkielty.co.uk or 01422 835771.