York Acorn ARLC welcomes back six key players ahead of West Hull game

11:21am Thursday 19th November 2009

By Steve Carroll

ALFIE Hill will be able to draw on experience as York Acorn entertain West Hull in a crucial National Conference League premier division clash.

The Blue and Golds’ coach welcomes back no fewer than six key players to the line-up as his team play a Humberside outfit just two points behind them in the table.

Mark Sanderson, Johnny Waldron, Scott Rhodes, Darren Callaghan, Andy Gargan and Jonny Liddell will all be used on Saturday as Hill looks to pick up a vital two points.

While defeat would push Acorn towards the league danger zone, a victory would see them climb back towards a top six place – so tight is the gap between the summit and bottom.

“It gives me optimism,” he said. “Experienced players got us to where we were last season. The lads who have stepped in have done a terrific job – the effort against East Hull (Acorn lost 25-10) was magnificent.

“But to get results I need these players and, if these boys show what they are capable of, we can beat anyone in this league.”

Chris Smith returns for Heworth, who are still on the hunt for their first NCL division one win of the season.

The player-coach has returned from playing in a rugby union tournament in Bermuda and he will be joined in the line up by Luke Judson.

Bradford Dudley Hill are Heworth’s opponents and club spokesman Ken Sykes said the side continues to be hopeful.

“It’s going to be tough. It’s about getting a good start and hanging on to it,” he said. “The players keep together and keep themselves going.”

Selby Warriors christen their new Foxhill Lane base against Bradford Victoria Rangers in round one of the Andrew Bennett Memorial Trophy on Saturday (2pm).

Warriors welcome their Pennine League division three visitors on the back of a 66-4 thrashing of Hollinwood, which kept them top of division four.

Captain fantastic Wayne Fennell led the way with six tries, taking his tally for the season to 30.

The second team are without a game, leaving coach Paul Helstrip in the enviable position of having 50 players to choose from.

Meanwhile, Selby are seeking a sponsor for their new ground. Anyone interested should phone club president Harry Paterson on 07855 712489.

New Earswick All Blacks have no match this week but the ‘A’-team play Illingworth from Halifax in the Pennine League Continuation Cup.

All Blacks won the cup two seasons ago and reached the final last year so will be looking for another good run. Favourites for the tie, All Blacks welcome back Declan Malarky from a foot injury.