THE improvements made by Heworth ARLC's 'A' team will be underlined tonight when they play in a cup final - and they reckon they can pull off a shock triumph.

The club considered giving up on a second string two years ago after encountering trouble raising a side, but they redoubled efforts and, with the promotion of several youngsters, have enjoyed a competitive season this term in CMS Yorkshire League division three, culminating in winning a place in the league's Alliance Cup final.

This competition is for all clubs with a second team in the Yorkshire League, and Heworth's final opponents are Oulton Raiders 'A', who play a division above them - and whose first team won the National Conference Grand Final, amateur rugby's top prize, at the weekend.

Player-coach Lee Clarke, who took up the Heworth 'A' team reins this season, thinks his young side - who have an average age of about 20 - can upset the favourites.

"It will be tough. They're a good side and a good club, but we're quietly confident," said the former first-teamer, who has left himself out of tonight's line-up such is his belief in his young guns.

"We've got faith in our players' ability and hopefully they will have confidence in themselves. We will give it a good go and hopefully we can come away with silverware."

Club spokesman Ken Sykes said: "The 'A' team have done remarkably well this season and a win in the final would be just reward, particularly considering the young side we have."

The final is at Normanton ARLC and the club are calling on all fans to go and give their backing. A supporters' bus will leave Heworth's Elmpark Way ground at 5.30pm and there may be seats available. Kick off is 7.30pm.

Updated: 10:09 Thursday, May 25, 2006