By Martin Morgan

Last updated 12:48, Thursday, 20 March 2008

TONGAN import Saia Makisi has pledged to fight hard to win a place in the Whitehaven line-up for the NL1 season, which kicks off on Good Friday at Featherstone (7.30pm).

Finding his feet: Tongan international Makisi in action in Sunday’s win over Halifax

Makisi is not expected to feature in the starting line up against Rovers, with Derry Eilbeck and Rob Jackson filling the centre berths, though he is a contender for a place on the bench.

“Those two are fantastic players, and it’s good that there’s such competition for places,” Makisi said.

“It keeps you honest and you know you must work hard to get a position.

“I’m enjoying it so far at the club, and the weather is okay. But I’ve got to do well no matter what the conditions are like.

“I’m just starting to settle and find my feet. It’s a nice town and everyone’s friendly.

“It has been a bit stop/start, playing one week and not the next. Hopefully I’ll get the chance to string a few games together.”

The big international centre had a hand in two tries in Sunday’s Northern Rail Cup win over Halifax, and Paul Crarey has had positive feedback from team-mates on his contribution, though the coach reckons fans may not see him at his best until the summer, on firmer surfaces.

Makisi, who has played eight times for Tonga, including six Tests, had a month training with NRL Parramatta before joining Haven, but that was the extent of his pre-season.

“I’ve still got a bit to make up,” he added. “It’s a good standard here and pretty physical.”

There will be no major shocks in Crarey’s team to face Featherstone, though prop David Fatialofa will return to the 17 after recovering from injury. Marc Jackson’s shoulder problem continues to rule him out.

Crarey faced Rovers three times last season in NL2, as Barrow boss, losing the two matches in Yorkshire and winning at Craven Park, so he knows what to expect on Friday.

“It’s their first game in Division One, and there will be a big, hostile crowd,” he said. “We’ll try to start well and take the emotion out of the game.

“Coach David Hobbs will be banking on winning his home games, as will everyone else. It’s a tough place to go.

“Featherstone are a physical side and very good when leading from the front. But I don’t know what they’ll be like if behind the eight-ball.”

Haven entertain Batley Bulldogs on Easter Monday.