YORK City Knights fans are putting aside the off-field wrangling to give loud and proud support to the team for Friday’s big Ladbrokes Challenge Cup tie at St Helens.

That’s the message from Knights Independent Supporters Society chairman Gary Hall, who says James Ford’s young side deserve non-stop backing ahead of the Langtree Park encounter against the Super League champions.

The last time the Knights met Saints, exactly ten years ago, they lost 62-0 at the old Knowsley Road ground, but the night was more memorable for the constant noisy backing given to the part-time professionals by a big away following.

Another big Saints victory is on the cards, but Hall says the result is by the by.

“I can remember Saints fans were in dispute with their board over the sacking of Ian Millward and the Knights fans just drowned them out,” recalled Hall of the 2005 encounter. “As soon as we started, it was just constant ‘We’re York and proud of it’, regardless of the scoreline.

“The enthusiasm in York City Knights has waned a bit as the off-field debacle goes on, but Friday is about the players.”

Hall is among the Knights fans who has called for chairman John Guildford to step down in the wake of the community stadium saga which has left the club currently homeless, though talks with City of York Council about getting back into the project are ongoing.

He added: “I can’t remember how many bus-loads we took over there last time but there were a lot of people from York there, 500 or more, making a lot of noise.

“I remember their full-back, Paul Wellens, turned around to us after they scored about 50 points and just started clapping the crowd.

“We were obviously huge underdogs but the team played right to the final whistle and just didn’t give up.

“Friday night is again about the players playing to the best of their ability and being supported by the fans.”

As an additional incentive to the team, KISS say they will give £5 for every point the Knights score to the Danny Jones fund - which was set up for the family of the popular Keighley Cougars half-back who died after a cardiac arrest during their game at London Skolars.

They will also donate £2 for each person who goes on the free bus they are putting on for fans on Friday.

A few spaces have been made available on that bus - supporters can phone 07443 564453 for details.

The Knights themselves are putting on a bus deal for fans, with offers for travel, replica shirts and tickets. For details, visit the club website or phone the office on 01904 767404.