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MICK Potter has drawn comparisons between Castleford and Celtic as he prepares to lock horns with the Crusaders this Friday.

He says John Dixon’s team utilise a lot of set plays and width much like Terry Matterson’s Tigers.

“Celtic gave us a big game down at Brewery Field where defences were on top and the conditions weren’t great to play rugby," he continued. "They play a good brand of rugby similar to the way Castleford are set up and they can frustrate you and control the ball very well. Wigan found that to their cost down in Wales.

“Of course, we are expected to beat them but there’s no way it will be a formality. If our players don’t apply themselves, we won’t be in a good position to do anything and we won’t be taking the game lightly.”

Although it is early doors, Mick says there are a couple of injuries in the camp, but they are unlikely to affect his team selection come Friday.

“Jon Wilkin went off at Bradford because he had cramp in both calves but like Sean Long he should be ok for Friday. Longy has some floating bone in his thumb and a calf problem but he should be fine.

“Matt Gidley copped a knee in the top of his head and needed 18 stitches and Chris Dean got a crunch tackle which tensed up the muscles in his neck.

“I won’t know about Jonny Lomax or Gary Wheeler until later in the week as both have taken knocks.

“Jonny got a knee in the back in the reserves and Gary injured himself doing a bit after training last week. I would say Gary is a doubt.”

Tickets are still available for the game that kicks off at 8pm and you can save £1.50 by pre-booking your ticket.

Way to Buy

Visit one of the Saints Superstores at Church Square Shopping Centre or at the GPW Recruitment Stadium

Call: 01744 455050 (option 1)

Online: www.saintssuperstore.com

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Celtic Comparisons....