LONDON Skolars will be no pushovers tomorrow.

That was the view of York City Knights boss James Ford ahead of his team's trip to New River Stadium (3pm).

The Londoners were shocked 24-20 by Coventry Bears last week and lie 11th of 14 in Betfred League One - lower than their expectations at the season's start.

But Ford still warned of the threats in their armoury - and warded off any complacency as his team look to stay on the coattails of league leaders before the big meeting of the top two next week.

"They've got some big boys in their ranks who take some handling," said Ford of the Skolars' pack.

"Our contact will need to be good, and if our mentality is not what it has been, they'll get penetration and create ruck speed.

"Both half-backs, (Jy-Mel) Coleman and (Neil) Thorman, have got creativity in them, and the centres are dangerous - (Lameck) Juma is a big strong, fast, athletic player.

"It will be in blistering heat again and there's the journey to throw in there.

"We will go down expecting a tough game, and it's a game we have to win."

The Knights have won their last five matches in good fashion, and have suffered only two league defeats all term.

Ford added: "We're probably going down there as favourites but there are factors we need to consider.

"We're aware it will be a challenge and we need to focus on our performance and make sure we do all the one per cent things that this team does that sets us aside from other sides in this competition."

Due to the game being on Saturday rather than Sunday, the Knights have opted not to train tonight, meaning they will have had only two sessions this week. But Ford said this would be no excuse.

"We have amended things but we don't expect it to have any adverse effect on our performance," he reasoned. "Our preparation has been fine."