OLDHAM come to Bootham Crescent desperate for points for their own promotion cause - and with an ability to have a massive say in the title race too.

That's the opinion of York City Knights boss James Ford, who is predicting another humdinger between the teams tomorrow following York's 24-22 win at Whitebank back in March.

Not only do the Roughyeds take on the table-topping Knights this weekend but they face second-placed Bradford Bulls seven days later, knowing that after a "frustrating season" of near misses they need results to make the top-five play-offs.

And Ford said: "They're capable of beating us and beating Bradford.

"They're one of the best sides in the competition and we need to make sure we're as good as we possibly can be.

"At the start of the season I would have expected them to have a big say in where the title goes, and that hasn't changed. They're a quality side."

The Knights need a positive result to stay at the summit given that Bradford, only two points behind in the two-horse title race and with a better points-difference, are certain of a big win at whipping boys West Wales.

Oldham, meanwhile, sit fifth but are only two points above seventh, with five teams scrapping for the three play-off places that remain below York and Bradford. Only two games remain after this weekend.

Added Ford: "They certainly have (got a lot to play for) but, having played Oldham sides previously, they've always got a lot to play for - they're a very proud bunch, and they will be looking forward to this one."

It has been a season of fine margins for both York and Oldham - hence "frustration" for Roughyeds boss Scott Naylor.

While York have won no fewer than six games by one score, including last week's 18-14 triumph at Workington, seven of Oldham’s eight losses have been by eight points or fewer.

They also have by far the best points-difference in the competition, barring the top two.

Naylor told their website: “That’s why it’s been such a frustrating season. You’ve still lost, whether it’s by two points or 200.

“We’ve been a little bit short in finishing teams off, but it’s not over yet by a long chalk."

He added: “When we played York here both teams were good and it was one of the best games of the season.

“It’s going to be a huge challenge, but we’ll give it a go and see what happens.

“York are top of the league for a reason.

“They’re structured, patient, well coached, good at set completion, able to wear down opponents and they know how to win a close game. They never panic.”

For Ford, it's a case - again - of "being better than last week".

"That's been our philosophy since day one," he said.

"Parts last week were a bit scratchy. I'm immensely proud of the work ethic, character and solidarity. We will need that again and to be better with the ball."