Castleford and new owner Jepson are quietly rebuilding for the future

On the face of it, Castleford Tigers' season looks much the same as the last.

- by James O'Brien

The Tigers sit 10th in Super League with breathing room below, yet remain a distance from the play-off pack.

But while the league table tells a familiar story, there is a quiet sense of momentum building behind the scenes at Wheldon Road.

With the long-awaited stadium redevelopment still in the works, new owner Martin Jepson is making the most of what he has.

The changing rooms and players' lounge have been refurbished, while the off-field staff are now housed under one roof in new offices.

For the first time, the club have a full-time chef to provide the playing squad with the fuel they need to perform on game day.

It has not quite clicked yet - at least not consistently - but no effort is being spared in the bid to turn Castleford's fortunes around.

"Part of the problem I've had to deal with is having to balance how much effort I put into sorting the off-field side of the club," said Jepson.

"All the fans want to see a winning side. I get that because I want to see a winning side. But people don't understand the enormity of the work that was required off the field.