Malton and Norton may have a rest from league rugby but they face an even tougher fixture at Keighley for a Yorkshire Shield quarter-final tie.

The hosts are currently in the top half of Yorkshire Two so should provide a barometer as to where Malton currently stand as they seek ascent to that league.

Centre David Webster has recovered from injury and will return with Liam Cowton moving to the wing in place of Ian Mansell. He will provide cover on the bench and almost certainly be called upon.

With Tom Eddy away in the USA, Carl Rushworth moves to prop and vice-captain Steve Hayhurst will take over at hooker.

Such is the strength in depth at The Gannock these days that none of these changes should make any difference.

Malt' reached the semi-final of the same competition last term and will be looking to progress to at least that stage again.

For the second week running, York face opposition one place above them when they visit Beverley in a Yorkshire One match which was postponed from January.

Beverley, like York, are desperately trying to get clear of what is rapidly becoming a relegation dogfight. The Beaver Park side are two points ahead of York having played one more game - but a win for the Clifton Parkers would see them exchange places.

York, fielding an unchanged side for the first time this season, are hoping that they will be able to turn possession into points better than they did in last week's disappointing loss at Sheffield Tigers.

York RI face a tough run out against Yorkshire Four promotion hopefuls Moortown. While the Railwaymen are struggling at the wrong end of Yorkshire Two, their Leeds-based opponents are riding high two divisions below.

Pocklington and Selby will have a chance to take in the Six Nations' action this weekend after their respective fixtures against Malton and Redcar were called off.

However, a youthful Pocklington Panthers side - with an average age of 22 - do travel to Malton, while the Pilgrims, who include six teenagers in their ranks, are at home to the Gannock side.

Harrogate also have a free week.

Updated: 11:35 Friday, March 22, 2002