TIM RUMFORD is poised to throw a few more youngsters into the mix as Heworth ARLC seek an uplifting "enthusiastic" performance at Underbank Rangers.

The down-in-the-dumps Villagers travel as massive underdogs on current form, with Rangers, who are coached by former Keighley and York City Knights forward Richard Knight, sitting second in National Conference League division three.

Head coach Rumford's plans to strengthen with players from outside the area have taken a blow as Omar Alwari was due to sign from Pennine League big-guns Queens only to damage ankle ligaments in their President's Cup final defeat to Sharlston Rovers on Bank Holiday Monday.

Rumford does have hooker Josh Poulter back but is also without key man Chris Varley and Chris Taylor, so is planning to put his trust in youth.

"Underbank are among the best teams in this division with one or two ex-professionals and with good coaching and good structures," he said.

"We're still trying to bring our lads up to that level, which is a challenge for us.

"We'll have a fairly young but enthusiastic side this weekend. We're trying to instil more enthusiasm into the team and youth can do that.

"This game could be a benchmark for us to see how are young lads are coming on. We want to compete with them and stick with them. If you stay enthusiastic, anything can happen."