THIS is a "must-win game".

So said York Acorn ARLC boss Scott Rhodes as his promotion-seeking side, on the back of two defeats on the road, host third-placed Ince Rose Bridge in National Conference League division one desperate to end that losing run quickly.

The Blue and Golds occupy sixth spot - the fourth and last play-off place - but have a tough run of fixtures ahead, with leaders Normanton and dangerous duo Shaw Cross and Myton all to follow the Wiganers this weekend.

Rhodes wants three victories from four and, with Acorn's home form - only one defeat this term - propping up their away record, he sees Saturday's encounter at Thanet Road (2.30pm) as especially vital.

"We have to get the wins to be in (promotion) contention at the end of the season," he said. "This one is maybe more important because you've got to win your home games.

"Not having a good away record puts more pressure on your home games.

"I would class this as must-win.

"It will be tough as Ince Rose have been going well. They beat us at their place and they've got decent players - two decent halves and a decent nine. They're strong. We've got to match them and keep up our good home record."

Joe Porter is unavailable but Davey Burns and Steve Mackley come into contention, as do Jordan Potter and Elliott Bulmer, who impressed on debut for the 'A' team - despite their defeat - last week after being released by York City Knights reserves.

That Acorn 'A' side, who lost ground on Yorkshire Men's League division one leaders Mirfield after falling 22-16 at Beverley, host mid-table Birstall Victoria looking to bounce back quickly to reignite their title hopes.

York Lokomotive, in the hunt for honours in YML division three, entertain lowly Leeds Akkies. Their last outing was a 34-34 draw with Keighley Albion a fortnight ago.

Heworth have no game in division two.