Matterson sticks with Tigers

Castleford coach Terry Matterson has decided to stay with the Tigers, despite their relegation from Super League.

The 39-year-old Australian was set to quit the club when they lost their relegation decider at Wakefield 11 days ago but announced that he would see out the remaining 12 months of his contract.

"Relegation was a real blow and, as it did for everyone associated with the club, it took some coming to terms with," said the former London Broncos captain. "It certainly gave me a lot to think about but I came over here to do a job, which was to see the Tigers succeed in Super League and, although relegation was a setback, my aims are the same and I am totally committed to the task in hand."

Castleford could yet gain a reprieve if Whitehaven win the National League One Grand Final on October 8 and their position will become clearer after this weekend.

The Cumbrians, who have been told they do not meet the criteria laid down for promotion, meet Widnes in a final eliminator at the Halton Stadium on Sunday.

However, Matterson is resigned to losing the bulk of his squad, with all Super League contracts becoming null and void once their relegation is confirmed.

"There is still the hope that Whitehaven might provide us with a lifeline but we are now moving ahead and planning for next season," added Matterson.

"The National League looks a tough competition and obviously we will lose a number of our current players, but I am confident we will put a squad together that will get us back into the top flight.

"That is my immediate task and everyone at the club is fully focused on making it happen."