Halifax RLFC prop Luke Ambler is confident that home support will make the difference for his side when they take on defending champions Sheffield Eagles at The Shay tonight (7pm).

In their last encounter Halifax beat the Eagles 21-6 in the Kingstone Press Championship qualifying play-off at the Don Valley Stadium, but since then Sheffield recorded an impressive 52-16 victory over Dewsbury Rams to set up a rematch. Ambler believes that playing in front of home support will give his side the edge.

“The fans have been very important for us this season and they’ve played a big part in our success,” said Ambler.

“At The Shay the fans seem very close to the pitch and that adds a certain element of pressure to the match.

“It feels like they’re beside you on the pitch and that can be a big boost in tight games when you need that extra lift.

“When the crowd come out in their numbers it is a massive boost for us, so hopefully we can get a result and make them proud this week.

“Both sides will be looking to attack from the first whistle.

“We know that it’s going to be a fierce encounter with the winner taking all the spoils.

“Getting to the Championship Grand Final would be a dream come true for me.

“We know that we had a bit of a dip towards the end of the season, but we’ve turned it around by putting in some strong displays.”