Promotion-chasing Selby Warriors have lauded the change in atmosphere around the club over the past year.

The Warriors lie fourth in Pennine League division five after six wins from eight games and are big favourites to claim another victory on Saturday when they entertain bottom club Keighley Town 'A' (ko 2pm).

They will again have a big squad to choose from, with vice-captain Sean Barker, who sprained an ankle in last week's win over Wetherby, being the only doubt. And spokesman Dave Sowden has hailed the switch from the Yorkshire League as part of the reason why the players have a renewed enthusiasm.

"We will be able to select from at least 20 players for Saturday's game," he said.

"This season has been a far cry from this time last year when we had to suspend our fixtures up to Christmas. This is due largely to the fact we made the bold decision to join the Pennine League.

"Players are coming back to play for the club because of the attraction of playing against new teams week in week out. It's not because the games are necessarily any easier - some are, but some are just as hard."

He added: "A good win this week will set the club up for the new year and with all our title rivals to play, including leaders York Acorn 'A' at home, our fate is in our own hands."

Neither Acorn 'A' nor York Groves, who are one place below the Warriors in the table, have a game this weekend.

The Yorkshire League, featuring senior division second-placed side New Earswick All Blacks, as well as division three strugglers Heworth 'A', has broken up for Christmas.

Updated: 08:45 Thursday, December 18, 2003