YORK City Knights will face Betfred Super League side Hull FC in their first game at the LNER Community Stadium on Thursday, March 11 (7.30pm kick-off).

The pre-season friendly will see York face a Hull team which finished in the Super League semi-finals in 2020 and have since added NRL star half-back Josh Reynolds to their group.

The fixture will give the Knights a stern test before their 2021 season opener in the Betfred Challenge Cup away to Sheffield Eagles on Friday, March 19 and is likely to be the first time fans see a number of their new signings in action.

“Despite the disruption we’ve all faced, I feel this has been our best pre-season since I came to the club,” York City Knights head coach James Ford said.

“There is lots of clarity around or systems, philosophies of play and our positional responsibilities alongside us being the fittest we’ve been.

“The boys have worked really hard and I’m proud of how they’ve dealt with the disruptions this far.

“Playing a top side like Hull FC excites us all and gives my players a wonderful opportunity to show case their ability and look to nail down a spot for the cup game against Sheffield.”

Hull FC head coach Brett Hodgson said: “We’re delighted to have been given the opportunity to face York in their first ever match at their brand new stadium - from what I’ve seen in the media, the ground looks fantastic and we as a club are excited to be involved in the opening match there on what should be a great occasion for the Knights.

“The game will prove to be a good hit-out for both sides, and give us a good marker as to where we’re at as a group a fortnight before the Betfred Super League season begins.

"The squad have shown some fierce determination and work-ethic in their pre-season efforts so far, and I'm looking forward to seeing what we can do in our first game of the year against a strong looking Championship opposition."

The match will be live streamed on Our League, with season ticket holders of both clubs able to watch for free. A price point for those without season tickets is yet to be announced.