Widnes boss Steve McCormack reckons the key to victory against Halifax on Thursday night - and a place in next week's Co-operative National League One Grand Final - lies in his squad's attitude.
The Vikings face in-form Halifax in a match that will decide who meets Castleford in one of Rugby League's biggest domestic occasions. Widnes lost against the Tigers last week but McCormack knows a victory on Thursday will put his side only 80 minutes away from a place in the engage Super League.
McCormack said: "Throughout 2007 we have never settled for second best and it is vital we bounce back.
"The players were sombre after the (Castleford) game and rightly so. They were all disappointed at the result but that is a sign of a good group."
The former Whitehaven and Salford boss knows Halifax will be equally keen to book a trip to Headingley but insists he has seen enough from his squad in training to leave him in confident mood.
McCormack said: "I'm sure everybody connected with both clubs can't wait for the game to start.
"Our players' attitude this week has been outstanding and we are all well aware of the importance of this fixture."
He added: "It will be very tough, just like every game has been this season. Halifax are a well-drilled team with some experienced individuals playing for them.
"Our previous games against them have been excellent and we're really looking forward to the challenge."
Halifax coach Martin Hall is sweating over the fitness of Ian Watson (knee) and Damian Gibson (hamstring) while Paul Southern (hamstring) and Shad Royston (neck) are also doubtful.
Hall said: "We think Gibson's injury is a pull rather than a tear but it's a bit too early to assess how serious Watson's is. Those four are the main concerns, although I would expect Royston to come through okay.
"We will give them all as long as we possibly can before making a final decision. We have players who can come in, and one person's misfortune is an opportunity for someone else. The main thing is we do everything we can to help them recover and after that, whatever will be, will be."
Hall's squad recorded a 32-24 victory against Whitehaven - their first win against the Cumbrians in 2007 - to claim a place in Thursday's clash, and the Fax boss will be hoping for another stellar display.
He said: "We played Whitehaven five times and lost four but we've won the one that counts most and now go to Widnes in the Final Eliminator - that's the prize for winning.
"I thought we were full value for the win and felt we were more convincing winners than the final score line suggests."
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