THE highest of high fives faces New Earswick All Blacks if they are to achieve their ambition of promotion from Yorkshire League division one.

The club have to win all their remaining five games starting at Pudsey on Saturday to finish in the top three and thereby gain promotion, said spokes-man Simon Malarkey.

"There are four teams battling for that third spot, so if we want to get into the top three then we will have to win all our five remaining games - two away and three at home."

Despite the All Blacks' ranks beating Pudsey convincingly earlier in the season, tomorrow's West Yorkshire hosts will provide stern opposition, insisted Malarkey. "They are a good home side."

In a boost to New Earswick hopes, experienced hooker Alan Pallister is back after missing last week's 36-20 defeat against Upton, while also returning is winger Lee Nelson.

The visitors will give fitness checks to injured trio Adie Robinson, Jamie Rhodes and Tom Coomber, but definitely out of the reckoning are Nigel Tyreman (shoulder injury) and John Lynch (unavailable).

York Acorn will finally complete their National Conference League division two campaign when they entertain champions-elect Wath Brow Hornets.

Acorn will be wary about being caught cold for the fixture, having been out of action for the past few weeks.

Meanwhile local pride will be at stake when York Acorn 'A' travel to Yorkshire League division two rivals Selby Warriors.

Acorn, who are in danger of the drop, will be desperate for the points against a Selby side vying for a spot in mid-table.

Updated: 11:40 Thursday, April 17, 2003