YORK City Knights' hunt for a specialist half-back is continuing - but boss James Ford has admitted the form of Ben Cockayne at stand-off has made the search a little less pressing.

It is no secret that the Knights are scouring the market for a new playmaker, with Connor Robinson and pro novice Liam Jackson the only recognised halves in the squad. Their need was most evident when prop Graeme Horne had to fill in at stand-off in an experiment which did not work in the defeat to Whitehaven.

However, veteran performer Cockayne, normally a full-back or winger throughout his Super League days, was back in that role in last Sunday's notable win over Workington, scoring one try, creating two and being named The Press man of the match.

It was the seventh time he had played alongside Robinson, and that could become eight on Sunday when the Knights go to North Wales Crusaders. Ford said: "Ben had a big influence on the game (against Workington).

"We are looking to strengthen but he's playing really well. He understands the game to a very good level and he's got good skill. He's a running threat and is a fantastic communicator, which helps.

"I also think he's really enjoying playing in the halves."

Ford dismissed the idea that Cockayne at half-back was far from a tactic they stumbled upon.

Asked if it was fortunate that the 34-year-old had filled the roll so competently while the search for new blood went on, Ford said: "No. We knew Ben was a quality player when we signed him.

"There are similarities between full-back and half-back in an attacking role, and I'm really pleased with the level of his performances."

Ford has previously admitted the club had been “waiting patiently” for the right man to become available on the right terms.

As reported by The Press, four players have so far partnered Robinson at half-back this year - Cockayne, Jackson, Horne and dual-reg Hull KR ace Matty Marsh. Brad Delaney joined from Coventry Bears in the winter but left after being omitted from the opening game of term against Bradford.

The Knights are also seeking another strike centre given the injury to Jake Butler-Fleming, which has seen Joe Batchelor switch from the second row to the three-quarters.

However, Ford intimated that the middle unit, as bolstered by Huddersfield loanee Colton Roche and dual-reg forward Jordan Walne, was currently looking in good nick with those additions.

He had been without Walne and Chris Siddons last Sunday due to illness, while Batchelor is presently playing wider, but there was still no place for Ronan Dixon in the 17 against Workington while Rory Dixon remains on loan at Hemel Stags. The Knights may well see second-row Mike Kelly sidelined for some weeks, though, due to his arm injury.

"It's tough at the minute (to get a spot in the forward pack)," said Ford.

"We've got plenty of quality in the middle.

"Dan Hawksworth came in on the morning of the game and his first stint especially was excellent.

"In our squad we have a good depth of quality in the forwards.

"Maybe we need to strengthen in the outside-back area, to keep things fresh and so the boys know they have to play to a high standard or risk someone else coming in."