THE differing fortunes of Pocklington and Malton and Norton will be highlighted tomorrow when the two Yorkshire Two rivals meet at Percy Road, writes Tony Curtis.

The halcyon days of league and Yorkshire Shield success seem a long time ago for one-time Rugby World team of the year Pocklington, with the club sliding down the rankings and in danger of dropping further.

Conversely, Malton are enjoying their most successful period in the club's history. Victory in the 2000/1 Junior Vase at Twickenham was followed by promotion to Yorkshire Two last season, while the Gannock side have got off to a confident start this time around as they push for further honours.

With local pride at stake, neither side will be taking anything granted, but as their injury problems show no sign of abating, Pocklington will go into the game as underdogs.

The club, languishing on the bottom of the pile, still have virtually a full XV out on the sidelines, but they do welcome the experience of Andy Kirby back to the fold.

And while the Pocklington selectors fret over who is available from their patched up squad, Malton look to be at near full strength.

Although they do have one or two slight injury worries, all barring former Pock winger Neil Gilbertson are expected to be passed fit.

Also missing will be second row Richard Webster, who starts a three-week suspension following his dismissal at Leodiensiens recently. Jim Fisher will resume in the starting line up in his place.

Updated: 13:29 Friday, December 06, 2002