YORK RUFC have issued a rallying call to supporters ahead of a game that could shape the destiny of the club’s season, writes Ian Appleyard.

The men from Clifton Park visit West Leeds tomorrow knowing that anything less than a victory will leave a massive dent in their promotion bid.

Opponents West Leeds are second in the table and defeat would leave York a minimum of 11 points behind in the race to secure the Yorkshire One play-off spot. With only eight further games to play, that would likely prove too big a bridge to gap.

Describing the fixture as ‘must-win’, Andrew Brown, head of the club’s rugby committee said: “I am calling on all York supporters to try and make the trip across to West Leeds to support the lads in this crucial game. West Leeds currently lie seven points ahead of us in the league and always have excellent support.”

Brown says coach Lee Denham and assistant Ian Thomson have generated an ‘excellent team spirit’. The extra supporters who travel to Blue Hill Lane could yet act as a ‘16th man’.

At the opposite end of the table, struggling Selby have a crunch game at Yarnbury who are only one point worse off.

In North One East, Pocklington will be seeking victory against bottom of the table Wheatley Hills to maintain their title challenge. Pocklington have been knocked off top spot by Penrith – on scoring difference – and the two go head-to-head in a fortnight. Guam back five forward Brian Ramiro has returned to the Pacific Islands after a memorable five-month stay in East Yorkshire.

Malton & Norton will climb out of the relegation zone if they beat fellow strugglers Guisborough. Spokesman Bill Laidler says five points (including a bonus) are a ‘must’ this weekend.

York RI host fourth placed Burley in Yorkshire Four.