FAIRFAX Trophy holders West Indies Wahoos will go head-to-head with Challenge Cup giantkillers Sharlston Rovers in a mouthwatering opener to this years York 9s festival.

The reigning champions exploded onto the scene last year when they beat favourites York Ironsides in an extra time final and are back to defend their crown at this year's tournament.

But it won't be easy as they have been drawn against leading amateurs Sharlston in the opening clash at 10.30am tomorrow with York RUFC and National League Three team Bramley Buffaloes also in the same group.

The York Ironsides, a representative team from York's amateur rugby league talent, kick-off their bid to get their hands on the Fairfax Trophy at 10.50am against Castleford Panthers, another top amateur side to join the mix this time out.

York-based West Indies coach Dean Thomas, who is also head coach at NL2 club Gateshead Thunder, said it would be "a big ask" to defend the title.

Some of last year's Windies squad now play for NL2 clubs so will be unavailable, but Thomas said other players had improved.

"The competition will be tougher this year and it will be a challenge but our hopes are high."

Thomas, who will be there all weekend as Gateshead have no game, is holding out on naming his squad until the last minute but has confirmed that New Earswick All Black Matt Godfrey will be back in West Indies colours following his efforts last year.

Other names likely to be included are Liam Jarvis and Tony Williams, plus London Broncos Academy players Joe Brown and teenager Steve Elms, who has been tipped as the new Jason Robinson.

Thomas, whose side will parade the Fairfax Cup around Headingley at tonight's Leeds v Hull match, added: "Preparations have been going well. We have evolved from last season and we have learned a lot from then.

"I think we will be playing with more balance and cohesion."

The fourth York 9s takes place at Heworth's Elmpark Way ground with 24 teams from across the UK and Europe in action.

Entry is £7 per day with under-12s free. Attractions include a bar and food village plus a kids zone with giant slides, bouncy castles and a trampoline.

Updated: 11:08 Friday, June 03, 2005