HEAD coach James Ford admitted feeling “uncomfortable” when watching York City Knights from the stands unable to influence proceedings.

However, he had praise for his backroom staff for taking over against North Wales Crusaders and overseeing the 30-0 win that kept the Knights level on points with Bradford Bulls at the top of Betfred League One.

Ford - slapped with a two-match touchline ban for foul and abusive language towards the fourth official in the win at Bradford last month - began his ban on Sunday, and will complete it on Saturday when the Knights go to West Wales Raiders.

Number two Chris Spurr took over, aided by player/assistant-coach Graeme Horne, who was on the sidelines after failing a late fitness test, and team manager Will Leatt.

Skipper Tim Spears, sidelined by injury, also took a match-day coaching role.

“I would have preferred to have an influence, obviously,” said Ford, who was not allowed to speak to players or coaches after 2pm on match-day.

“But I thought Spurry, Will, Horney and Spearsy did a really good job. We won 30-0 against a side we rate.

“I’ve got confidence in the staff at the club and in the players that they can produce a performance without an input from me.

“I can see all of the coaching staff being head coaches somewhere down the line.

“I hope they enjoyed it – apart from anything else they have to do it again next week.”