YORK City Knights head towards the half-way mark of the season with an almost identical record as last term - but Lee Jackson reckons the class of 2005 can go one better this time.

Mick Cook's team currently top LHF National League Two with seven wins from eight games and a points-difference of plus-184.

At this stage last term, Richard Agar's men also had seven wins from eight, with a points-difference of plus-179. But defeat away to Workington heralded three consecutive defeats that scuppered the Knights' chances of automatic promotion and left them facing a play-off battle which proved ultimately agonising.

The half-way point of the season this year also sees the Knights travel to Workington (kick off 2pm on Sunday) in what could prove to be a crucial encounter, and Jackson was hoping lightning doesn't strike twice.

"That month lost us the title," said the former Great Britain hooker. "We lost to Hull KR in the semi-final (of the Arriva Trains Cup), then lost three in the league, starting at Workington.

"That month was a real downer considering the season we had, and obviously we hope it won't happen again."

Jackson felt the experience of last year's campaign, however, could aid the Knights this time, while some of the new players have also had experience of promotion battles at other clubs.

"They know what it's about," said the 36-year-old, who retires this year and obviously wants to go out with a bang.

"There's a good balance in the squad at the moment. Everybody is enjoying themselves. There are one or two of us with a lot of experience, which is something you can't buy, and there are youngsters showing a lot of enthusiasm which is rubbing off."

He said this year's squad was perhaps better equipped, too. He explained: "The backs are scoring a lot of points like last year and player for player there won't be a lot of difference, but I think this year we're a bit stronger in the forwards. We seem to have more bulk up front and it's a good mix-up.

"The main difference, though, is that we've got three coaches.

"Mick Cook is the full-time head coach, then he's got Paul Broadbent and Daryl Powell helping, and Jason Ramshaw as well. Last year, Richard Agar had to do the bulk of it himself with nobody to turn to."

But he warned: "We've only got as much right to win games as other teams. If we play better on the day, complete our sets - especially if it's going to be sunny - and make fewer mistakes, that will be a major factor.

"As long as we prepare well and play as a unit rather than as individuals, it will go a long way to winning games."

Updated: 09:39 Friday, June 24, 2005