THERE'S few occasions where York RUFC will go into a weekend clash as underdogs.

But it will be a big upset if the Clifton Parkers can overturn North One side Altrincham Kersal in the third round of the Intermediate Cup tomorrow.

Having said that, York go into the game against last year's cup quarter-finalists with confidence after a big win over Huddersfield YMCA - a victory which got their Yorkshire One season back on track.

Altrincham Kersal may be unbeaten this year in North 1, but York will be fielding a full strength squad for the first time this season.

With York likely to play a territory based game, much will depend on the boot and hands of stand-off and leading try scorer Carl Paterson.

His combination with scrum-half Graeme Smith will be key, as will Smith's ability to deliver quick ball to the backs.

With York having amassed tries with ease in Yorkshire One, a good platform established by the front five will give the Clifton Parkers opportunities - but it will still be a tough ask against a side with a 100 per cent win record and a tight defence.

York make only one change to the side which started against Huddersfield with second-row Rob Sparrow returning after injury to replace unavailable James Rossington.

This will be the first time since the opening weeks of the campaign that Sparrow will be playing alongside fellow lock Brad Macdonald, who made a solid return from injury last week.

York RI will also have to overcome tremendous odds when they travel to West Yorkshire to take on Bradford Salem in the Yorkshire Shield.

Fly-half Mathew Yates is still out, but John Alexander returns for the Yorkshire Three side who face opponents two leagues higher.

RI spokesman Nigel Lowery said that although the club would be facing a large Bradford pack, the club would still be "giving it a big shout".

Pocklington face an unknown quantity when they host Northumberland/Durham Two side, Guisborough, in the third round of the Powergen Vase on Saturday.

The Vase game, which has an earlier kick off of 2pm in case extra time is required, takes precedence over Pocklington's original Yorkshire Shield derby at Selby, who have a week off.

Malton and Norton will take a virtual full squad to Driffield for a friendly match. Although the team will not be finalised until the last moment, there is expected to be little change from last week's XV.

Selby are without a game this weekend.

Updated: 11:05 Friday, November 04, 2005