SINCE losing to Woodhouse Grange five weeks ago, York Cricket Club's season has gone from strength-to-strength.

With four wins out of four and maximum points to boot, the reigning champions have climbed from mid-table in the Hunters Yorkshire Premier League North to second spot - only three points behind leaders Harrogate.

Tomorrow, as they prepare to renew acquaintances with Woodhouse Grange, all-rounder Nick Kay has been stressing the importance of keeping up the pressure.

"We can't afford any slip ups or they will get away from us," he warned. "This is probably the strongest Harrogate team since 2005 - a very good side with a lot of experienced club cricketers. They are going to take some beating.

"But at the end of May, we were mid-table. Our recent run of form has put us right back on their heels. We would definitely have taken this position at the start of the season. Hopefully, we can stay with them now until we play them again."

Woodhouse Grange inflicted a 28 run defeat on York when the two clubs met in the Yorkshire League's Knockout Cup on May 30.

They remain closer to the bottom than the top of the table but Kay says York will not be under-estimating the threat they pose.

"We know exactly what they are capable of because they knocked us out of the League Cup," he said. "I wouldn't say we want to get our own back but it is definitely still fresh in the mind and focuses our thinking!"

York's options tomorrow will be boosted by the return of top order batsmen Chris Booth and leg spin bowler Tom Pringle.

Acomb, who had a winning draw against Scarborough last weekend, will be the latest club trying to put the brakes on Harrogate when they visit St George's Road tomorrow.

Third placed Sheriff Hutton Bridge, who are eight points behind York, host struggling Castleford who have lost seven of the last eight games.

Batsman Adam Fisher has scored 181 runs in his last two outings and will be looking to lead the way again.

Fifth placed Stamford Bridge visit bottom of the table Dunnington. It is now four games without a win for Bridge whose own bid for the title is fading.

Leaders Easingwold visit Sessay, meanwhile, in the Hunters York and District Senior League Premier Division.

Clifton Alliance, still chasing in second spot, host York II.