LEEDS United are expected to bring a number of senior players to Bootham Crescent tomorrow for the friendly encounter with York City (kick off 7.45pm), writes Peter Martini.

The Premiership big-guns are likely to take a strong first-team squad to Lancashire tonight for a friendly with Preston North End, but the players who don't get a full game at Deepdale are likely to feature at the Crescent tomorrow.

City themselves are likely to field a strong first team in what will be the final senior friendly before Saturday's big Division Three kick-off against League newcomers Rushden and Diamonds.

Manager Terry Dolan sent predominantly a young reserve side to Nottinghamshire last night for a friendly with Dr Martens League outfit Ilkeston Town, which ended 1-1.

The Minstermen were on top in the first half but only got the breakthrough after the interval, striker Scott Emmerson netting from the penalty spot on 48 minutes after Leigh Wood was brought down.

With the second half played out in torrential rain, the hosts - whose management team comprises former City duo Ian Helliwell and Chris Marples - deservedly drew level with eight minutes left thanks to a superb 25-yard free-kick by midfielder John Knapper.

Updated: 12:23 Tuesday, August 07, 2001