But while we were kicking our heels, Leigh played Stupid League also-rans Castleford in a friendly at Wheldon Road. Given the number of Tigers squad numbers of 17 and above on display, one can assume that it was a fairly 'experimental' Castleford side that cruised to a 36-12 victory - but a game against a better standard of side will stand Leigh in very good stead as they gear up to qualify from the group stage of the Late Trains Cup.

And, looking down their teamsheet, they have a side very capable of doing just that.

Try machine Neil Turley celebrated his return from injury last week with a trademark touchdown - and with Leroy Rivett, Damian Munro and Dale Cardoza in the threequarter line they?ve got pace and experience to burn. But it's up front where they look well sorted.

Bryan Henare, Sean Richardson, David Bradbury, Dale Holdstock, Adam Bristow, Paul Rowley - it's a pack bristling with potential damage. Add Willie Swann to steer them around and you have a very big handful of problems.

Be in no doubt, Hornets will have to be on the very top of their game to compete in this one. The Salford debacle exposed the areas where our side is lacking - and after twenty minutes I was bored with it.

Undoubtedly Hally's pack has the potential to be amongst the strongest in the national league, but one or two big reputations are going to have to inject a bit of steel into their play if they're going to go the distance - both during the season and in the supporters' patience.

Absent at Salford, the inclusion of Andy Grundy should give us a bit more firepower up front - and I'd be looking to include Wes Rogers who - whilst not a 'flair' player - he digs deep and gets stuck in.

With Marlon's imminent return, Hally could be looking to sort out the mess that currently masquerades as our centre channels. The introduction of James Bunyan at Salford certainly closed one route and I'd be thinking of any one from Cooper, McHugh or even Mayberry for the other. Whatever Hally decides though, we have to get this particular area sorted quickly - or we'll be seeing an awful lot of Cardoza and Rivett on Sunday.

If this preview sounds a little downbeat - it is. The embarrassment at Salford knocked the wind out of the Hornets supporters and we need a big, big performance to restore confidence at the club.

After the thumping at Huddersfield last season, Hornets responded with a superb performance against Doncaster - losing to a last minute touchline kick. We need to respond similarly this term - it's a real test of character, this one and we'll see who really wants to wear a red, white and blue jersey.

Let's see what we're made of. See you there.