Aussie David Boyle is favourite to land Henry Paul's stand-off role for Friday's derby head-to-head with Halifax Blue Sox at Odsal.

The versatile former Canberra Raiders ace, who has caught the eye with four tries in his last five games, is expected to line up with Paul Deacon at half-back as coach Matthew Elliott looks to cover the absence of Henry and brother Robbie who are on Test duty with New Zealand against Australia in Sydney earlier that day.

"We have a few options, but we played David at stand-off against Wakefield and a partnership with Paul looks the best option at this stage," admitted Elliott who has been delighted with the form of his close season recruit.

"David put in another very good effort at Warrington and is very useful to have around. I was also delighted with Paul's contribution and thought he helped us through a difficult last quarter."

Elliott's main injury concern remains back-rower Bernard Dywer, who is to consult an orthopaedic surgeon over a knee injury picked up in Sunday's 22-14 win at Warrington.

"There may be a cartilage problem but we should know more shortly. At this stage though he has to be pretty doubtful for Friday night."

With potentially three players missing from Sunday's line-up the door is open for the likes of Steve McNamara, Nathan McAvoy and Jeremy Donougher who had useful run-outs with the under-21 side on Saturday.

Donougher crossed for a couple of tries to push his claims for a recall after being left out of the last three games.

But Aussie centre Nick Zisti who withdrew on the day of the game with a knee injury is to have an MRI scan to discover the extent of the damage.

Friday night's entertainment will have an Elvis Presley theme and the first 50 fans arriving at gate 4 in suitable fancy dress will be admitted free.

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