YORK RUFC coach Lee Denham will have his ‘strongest’ possible team available for tomorrow’s North Yorkshire derby against Selby.

With no injury problems and stiff competition for places, Denham is looking to maintain his side’s push for promotion.

The men from Clifton Road may be 19 points adrift of runaway leaders Bridlington but they are one of five clubs separated by just five points in the chasing pack.

Neighbours Selby are in freefall after a run of six consecutive defeats but Denham knows it would be dangerous to take anything for granted.

“They have had a few issues and I am very surprised by their recent results – but there is no way I am expecting to go to Selby and turn them over,” he said.

“I would like to think – going there as strong as we are – that we can play some good rugby,” he added. “I would also love to come away with some bonus points – but the first thing that matters is winning the game.”

Although 11th in the table, Selby’s defeat against Hullensians left them just six points above bottom club North Ribblesdale. York, in stark contrast, are third in the table, level on points with second placed West Leeds. Denham says his ‘strongest’ side is available. Toby Akins returns at scrum-half after Matt Hargreaves missed training.

In North One East, Pocklington – who are only four points behind leaders West Hartlepool – finish their 2016 league campaign with a trip to struggling Guisborough.

Both clubs have risen through the leagues in the past decade after nurturing home grown talent. Last season’s fixtures were both ‘cliffhangers’ but, this time around, Pocklington are expected to win more comfortably.

Guisborough have picked up only nine points so far and are next to bottom of the table.

The majority of Pocklington’s squad came through the derby win against Driffield unscathed although Guam prop Johnny Borj faces a fitness test on his ankle.

Pocklington’s main dilemma is who to leave out – as they again have a squad of 22 players to choose from.

Malton & Norton will be seeking to end a run of five consecutive defeats when they host Huddersfield YMCA tomorrow at The Gannock.

Currently in the third relegation place, Malton had no luck last weekend when beaten 20-0 at North One East leaders West Hartlepool.

The task tomorrow will not be easy as the visitors have climbed to ninth spot on the back of an impressive run that has heralded three wins from four games.