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Castleford Tigers prop Paul Jackson is hoping to celebrate his new deal at the club with victory over local rivals Wakefield on Saturday.
The Tigers will look to bounce back from last Friday's disappointing defeat to Leeds at Headingley, and inject a little momentum into their quest for a place at Old Trafford in January.
And Jackson, who signed a new one-year contract this week, believes that despite the recent set back, Castleford remain well-placed ahead of their final three regular season appointments.
"The defeat to Leeds was obviously a big disappointment. Some might suggest we were drained mentally after the defeat to them in the Cup semis a week earlier but we also had eight or nine regular first teamers missing," the former Wakefield and Huddersfield prop explained.
"But we've put that behind us, dusted ourselves off, and feel pretty confident ahead of this weekend. It's a big game for the fans because it's a derby, but from a players' perspective it's a match that we simply can't afford to lose.
"In a way the play-offs have started a few weeks earlier for us because we know that a defeat could mean the end to our season. But we're prepared for that sort of environment and feel it can bring the best out of us."
Following Saturday's clash with the Wildcats - whichthey are1.28 to win -at the Rapid Solicitors Stadium, the Tigers face crucial matches against Hull FC and Hull KR, who both need wins if they are to cement a spot in the top eight.
The Tigers are201.00 currently to win the Super League XVI.
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