FORMER New Zealand international Tony Penn has been appointed director of rugby by Pocklington RUFC until the end of the season.

Penn, who played for the All Blacks between 2002-2004, joined Pocklington’s coaching staff in the summer and is replacing Richard Wilson who has stepped down due to work commitments.

“I hope I can do the position justice,” he said.

“I’ll do everything in my power to help this wonderful club continue to progress in a positive manner.”

Penn’s arrival led to the signing of five players from Guam – Brian Ramiro, Carlos Fegurgur, Johnny Borja, Earl Pascual and Basil O’Mallan – and Pocklington, who host Dinnington tomorrow, currently sit fourth in North One East.

“There are things to work on but we are improving with each week,” he said.

“We play the game to do the best we can and I really believe that promotion is just something that will come with time.

“I wasn’t sure what to expect when I came over here – and didn’t know anyone – but the Pocklington people have been great; so welcoming, so engaging and so helpful both to me and the Guam guys.

“The rugby club is a fantastic place, a real grassroots club where everyone just works so hard for the shirt,” he added.

“I’ve played rugby all over the world but the camaraderie and commitment here is as good as anything I’ve seen anywhere.”

Malton & Norton host Durham City tomorrow – a team just one point and one place beneath them in North One East.

In Yorkshire One, fifth-placed York travel to third-placed Keighley seeking a win that could lift the club into second spot. After consecutive defeats against Beverley and Keighley, Selby look to return to winning ways at North Ribblesdale. In Yorkshire Five, York Railway Institute visit bottom of the table Bramley Phoenix.