HIGH-RIDING York City Knights Ladies have been boosted by the return of five key players for Sunday’s Women's RL Challenge Shield final against Army Ladies.

Sam Boyes, Kay Rollinson, Hayley Worthington and Gemma Kay are all in contention for the game - which will take place at Heworth ARLC at 1pm - after overcoming injuries, while scrum-half Katie Langan is also available after missing the draw at Huddersfield this month due to off-field commitments.

Natalie Sleightholme is also pushing for a place in Daryl North’s squad.

However, despite being nearer full-strength, head coach North is not underestimating the challenge Sunday’s opponents will pose for his high-flying charges.

“The final will be very tough, we are all aware of this," he said. "They (Army Ladies) will be very tough, strong and well-conditioned.

"I know rugby league is a very big thing in the Army at the moment so they will be training very hard as they will really want to win.”

The Knights sit atop the Summer Merit League table and have lost just once this season – 16-8 in the Yorkshire Cup against premier division leaders Castleford Ladies. North described that display as his side’s best of the season and believes a repeat is required for his side to lift the Shield.

“We really want to win, but to do so we will have to replicate our performance against Castleford to ensure we get the trophy.”