WITH the winning post now in sight, the Yorkshire One promotion race could explode into action tomorrow.

Although nothing is ever certain when it comes to the Rugby Football Union and the issues of promotion and relegation, all clubs are edging their bets that the top two places should secure promotion.

And with York and Selby still harbouring hopes of climbing the league ladder, they could move a step closer with wins tomorrow.

Andy Gair's second-paced York outfit face a massive tie at home to fourth-placed Huddersfield YMCA, while Selby travel to Dukes Park looking to throw a spanner in the works of leaders Bridlington.

A win for York would leave them perfectly placed for the final four fixtures of the season. They currently have a four and five point advantage over third-placed Old Brodleians and Huddersfield YMCA respectively, although the two West Yorkshire sides do have a game in hand.

York are still in the hunt for the title, with Bridlington just two points clear but with a game in hand. However, that could all change if Selby upset the odds and York topple Huddersfield.

There will be a welcome return to first team action for flanker Garath Thomas, who has been out since picking up a serious head injury against Bridlington back in November.

Brad MacDonald is out injured so player-coach Peter Curtis and club stalwart Dave Spanton will fill the second row. James Arkle will partner Ben Quick in the half-backs as former Otley scrum-half Gary Cassidy is unavailable.

Selby, who need to recreate one of their now famed end of season runs if they are to challenge York for second spot, will feel they have unfinished business against Bridlington.

The two sides met earlier in the season at Sandhill Lane when Selby pushed the leaders all the way and at 19-19 looked good value to take something from the game, only for two late drop goals to seal it in Brid's favour.

However, despite missing skipper Jason Cicero, Richard Nicholson, Duncan Phillips, Martin Bramley, Ray Adamson and Richard Topping last week, Selby produced a solid display to thump Yarnbury 34-16.

Cicero, who was resting his back, Duncan Phillips and Martin Bramley should all be back in the fray tomorrow, while Adamson, having begun his return in the thirds, could be in line for a spot on the bench, although he is more likely to get 80 minutes under his belt with the seconds.

There will be no place for Nicholson though, who has undergone an operation on an injured knee.

Malton and Norton know they can't afford any more slip-ups as they look to continue their rise up the standings, but with a trip to fourth-placed West Leeds in Yorkshire Two tomorrow, things do not get much harder.

Malton, shocked by their defeat by Ripon last week, are in danger of seeing the top two move out of touch, although they do have a game in hand.

And after a spirited last 20 minutes against Ripon, Pat Stephenson will remain encouraged that his side can keep up the pressure.

With their promotion ambitions now on a knife edge, Harrogate know they must keep winning while hoping other results go their way.

Third-placed Gate, who entertain National Two bottom club Fylde tomorrow, have drifted to three points off Penzance in second spot after their shock defeat to Launceston last week.

And with Penzance having the luxury of a game in hand, Harrogate now face an anxious few weeks.

New scrum-half John Newton, who has signed from Sale, could come into the squad after playing for the Georgians last week.

Updated: 10:56 Friday, February 07, 2003