YORK Acorn re-launch their National Conference League division two promotion bid on Saturday with a long haul to Cumbria - without star man Andy Lee in tow.

Lee has followed his older brother, Rob Lee, from Thanet Road to Huntington Stadium, signing for a month's trial with York Wasps.

It is another blow for the Blue and Golds, who - out for revenge against Millom this weekend - had hoped Lee could fill their problematic stand-off berth, following the departures to the professional game of Darren Callaghan and Rob Lee, plus the broken jaw injury to Danny Liddell.

However, Acorn spokesman Paul Lumby has insisted his club - beaten by Heworth in the Challenge Cup last time out - can bounce back again.

"Andy Lee has been outstanding at full-back but during the Cup defeat moved up to stand-off and was excellent, scoring a solo try in that game," said Lumby.

"It looked like we might have found a replacement for that spot but his move means will we have to readjust again.

"The lads have shown they can bounce back time and again this season, and we'll have to do it again."

Lee is another product of Acorn's youth set-up, going on to have his first taste of professionalism with Hull FC's Academy.

"Things didn't work out for him at Hull but he came back to us and played for a while in the 'A' team, getting his confidence back," said Lumby.

"He came back into the first team and has been outstanding. We have lost a very talented player but wish him all the best."

Acorn are eager to avenge their loss to Millom earlier in the term. Said Lumby: "That was our most disappointing performance of the season. We should never have lost to them but we did not play well.

"The result sticks in our throats and we're aiming to redress the balance."

New Earswick All Blacks are hoping 2002 will prove a much better year than 2001, starting with a home victory over fellow Yorkshire League senior and division one strugglers Hunslet Warriors 'A'.

As documented in the Evening Press, the All Blacks, who dropped down from the NCL in the close season, struggled for players towards the end of last year but have opted to fight on rather than fold.

Spokesman Charles Rollinson said: "Let's hope the players respond and we'll have a full squad available. This is definitely a game we can win."

Player-coach Simon Baynes will be without Jamie Daniel, who begins a two-match suspension following his sending-off in the fiery Senior Cup match against Pudsey.

York Acorn 'A' will be out for immediate revenge as they entertain a rejuvenated Selby Warriors in Yorkshire League division three.

The Warriors beat play-off hopefuls Acorn in the final fixture before the festive break and will look to build on their impressive pre-Christmas form.

Promotion chasing Heworth 'A' have a YL division four trip to Mirfield.

York Groves have boosted their playing power for 2002 with the signing of seasoned campaigner Gareth Hill.

The former York Acorn player, who can also kick goals, has a wealth of experience which can help the youngsters on Groves' books.

The Terriers kick off the New Year with a home game against Hillsborough Hawks at South Moor, Huntington, and will hope to keep their confidence on the up.

Player-coach Simon Moat, who has kept his squad active despite the league's festive break, should have a full-strength squad from which to pick.

Updated: 11:24 Thursday, January 03, 2002