DEWSBURY boss Andy Kelly has tried to throw off the favourites' tag ahead of tomorrow's big clash, writes Peter Martini.

The Rams recruited several ex-Super League players in the off-season and are the only LHF National League Two side with a 100 per cent record after three games following their top-of-the-table victory over Swinton.

But Kelly reckons several teams are in with a shout and that York should be favourites to triumph tomorrow.

"We're confident we performed well last week, but we're visiting the pre-season favourites and we still think we're coming as underdogs," he said.

"We know it's going to be a big challenge. Since York's defeat to Swinton, they've started to shape up and last week's result against Sheffield was quite emphatic."

As for the favourites' tag, he explained: "None of us want it. It puts you on a pedestal. You want to be there at the end of the season but you don't want to be on that pedestal all year as it gives people an angle to really have a go.

"There are four or five teams capable of winning the division. We're one, York are one and Workington, Swinton and maybe one or two others are as well.

"I don't think there are any champions elect. York were made favourites because of last season's form and they've recruited well, and as the side starts to settle they will be a force all season."

Kelly has problems up front after Paul Hicks dislocated an elbow last week, joining fellow prop Jonlee Lockwood (torn cartilage) on the sidelines, while his likely replacement, Mark Stubley, did likewise playing for the Rams Under-21s in midweek.

Updated: 10:05 Saturday, April 23, 2005