No Leigh way for Mark Applegarth as York City Knights kick off (From York Press)

No Leigh way for Mark Applegarth as York City Knights kick off

11:51am Saturday 6th February 2010 in

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HALF-BACKS Chris Thorman and Robbie Paul have taken the limelight in the build-up to tomorrow’s Huntington Stadium humdinger – but the focus could fall on the battle up front.

Former international schemers Thorman and Paul will face each other in a battle of wits which last season was played out in Super League, as York City Knights host Leigh in the Northern Rail Cup (kick off 3pm).

However, both clubs will be looking closely at the performances of their pack, with the Centurions hit by injuries – and with the Knights leaving out Player of the Year Mark Applegarth as they kick off their campaign.

York player/caretaker-coach Thorman is running with the same 17 that were to play in last week’s postponed opener at Rochdale, with Applegarth – who had been in a provisional 19-man squad for that tie – one of the two omitted. Kris Peacock is the other, being named 18th man.

Thorman explained Applegarth had missed some training sessions due to university studies – and a broken car. But he said the 25-year-old had a big part to play this season.

He explained: “Mash has not been able to attend as many sessions as he or we would’ve liked. He has other commitments right now and a few things stopping him getting to York regularly.

“It would’ve been unfair on people like Carl Barrow, who has trained the house down, and Nathan Freer, Alex Benson and Brett Waller, who have been impressive in pre-season.

“Mark’s not picked this weekend but that’s also a sign of how well everyone has trained and of our depth. He will still have a big role to play because he’s a natural leader and a really good player.”

Leigh, meanwhile, will be missing former Super League star Ricky Bibey (back) and fellow props Steve Nash (knee surgery) and Chris Hill (shoulder), who was injured in last week’s 24-12 opening win over Oldham.

However, Mike Morrison is now fit to replace him and Thorman, when asked if this was a good time to play the Centurions, warned they would still be strong.

“They might be a bit light on front-rowers but I’m sure whoever they bring in will be good,” he said.

“They will have strength in depth, and with Robbie Paul, their marquee signing, guiding them around, and with a coach of Ian Millward’s stature, they have to be well respected.

“We’re just excited about the challenge.”

Thorman urged fans to turn up in numbers. He said: “It’s always better to see the likes of Robbie and Ian Millward in the flesh than on TV. They’re pretty high-profile. Robbie is pretty much the most decorated player in Super League history. He’s a legend in the game.

“We’re well award of the threat he will bring but I’m also interested in seeing who else goes well for them.”

Paul told The Press the Northern Rail Cup was one of Leigh’s targets. “It’s important to our aspirations as it ticks a box towards a Super League licence,” said the former Kiwi ace who turned 34 this week.

“I probably won’t be playing when that comes up but I’d like to bring silverware to club and help bring something back to the fans.”

He added: “There were patches last week where we went really well but, as the head coach said, there’s plenty of room for improvement. We underperformed but now we’re looking forward to Sunday.”

Knights (probable): Ratcliffe, Wilson, Waterman, Mitchell, Reittie, Thorman, Bromilow, Benson, McLocklan, Freer, Hill, Ross, Blakeway. Subs: from Stamp, Clough, Peacock, Barrow, Waller.

Leigh (possible): Donlan, Maden, Higson, Nanyn, Ridyard, Hartley, Paul, Morrison, McConnell, Armitstead, Taylor, Goulden, Leuluai. Subs: from Duffy, Cunniffe, Ainscough, Meekin, Alstead, Mort.

Referee: Dave Merrick (Castleord).