New Earswick ARLC host Halifax Irish in the Pennine League championship on Saturday believing the game could be a pointer to their promotion hopes.

All Blacks have taken maximum points from their first three fixtures but coach Simon Baynes sees last week’s opponents, Keighley, and this weekend’s visitors as a marker to where they are at.

Said club spokesman Phil Pallister: “Halifax Irish are being talked about as the team to beat in the championship but the coaches and players will concentrate on our game.

“Our players have been working hard in training and while the first two games’ performances were patchy at times, we showed what is achievable in last weekend’s win over Keighley when it comes together.”

Baynes has a full squad to choose from, with Liam Gargan available for first team selection again, and with Ben Dent back at the club after his spell with York City Knights reserves.

Rampant Selby Warriors host Kippax on Saturday confident of continuing their march at the top of division two.

Selby have rattled up 156 points in three straight wins – latterly a 54-0 romp against West Bowling ‘A’ despite being without influential packmen Ryan Eades and Mark Hanson – while their hosts have lost both of their opening games.

The match at the Webster Timber Foxhill Lane ground kicks off at 2.30pm.

New Earswick ‘A’ travel to Littleborough in division four. Gareth Allott is not available due to work commitments.

Selby Warriors ‘A’ are away to Westgate Wolves in division seven.