NEW Earswick All Blacks ARLC go across the city to York Acorn 'A' on Saturday for what could be a dress rehearsal for the Yorkshire Men's League division one play-offs.

All Blacks are guaranteed a top-two finish ahead of this last match of the regular campaign - and are probable table-toppers even if they lose, given their point-difference advantage over second-placed Norland - while Acorn are sure of finishing third or fourth.

The Minster city rivals could therefore meet at All Blacks in the semi-finals, or potentially in the final.

All Blacks player-boss Jack Stearman said his side would go all out for victory this weekend to finish top in their maiden season in summer rugby after switching from the Pennine League.

"We're guaranteed a home semi-final so the result doesn't make a difference in that sense. But it's nice to get the kudos of winning the league," he said.

"It will be a tough game. Acorn are the form team in the league and derbies cause trouble anyway - anything can happen."

All Blacks - who are also due to play Acorn's first team in the York & District Cup final on a date to be confirmed - will field a similar side to that which won at West Hull last time out in arguably their best display of term.

Added Stearman: "We've lost only twice all year and we don't want to lose again. We want the two points and to go into the play-offs on a roll."

Asked if he would prefer to play Acorn or Odsal Sedbergh in the semi-finals - an All Blacks win on Saturday would make it more likely to be Acorn - he said: "I don't want to tempt fate either way."

Neighbours Heworth could also play a part in those final top-four standings as they host Odsal in their last game.

The Villagers' hopes of sneaking into the top four ended last week despite a fine win over Keighley Albion.