Break come at the right time for York Acorn says coach Josh Mortimer

Most of the National Conference League are out of action this weekend, including division one outfit Acorn - who are still second despite losing two games on the trot.

The Blue and Golds - who had won seven on the bounce - have seen their run halted by a 25-16 defeat at Milford and a surprise 34-24 loss at second-bottom Saddleworth Rangers.

"After one loss, you want to play again as quickly as possible," Mortimer said.

"After two not particularly good performances, you probably want a break.

"I think it's come at a good time for us.

"We got what we deserved both games. We didn't perform to the best of our ability and we probably got bullied in both.

"The other team had the bigger desire to win.

"Against Milford, we were 25-0 down at half-time and brought it back to 25-16, so we showed desire then, but we were still making too many errors.

"That continued against Saddleworth.

"They were good value for the win and we never got going.

"We're still second and there's a long way to go in the season so we're not panicking.

"We've lost two - we just need to make sure it doesn't become three."

To prepare for June 1's trip to Myton Warriors, Mortimer has, at the request of his playing staff, promised tougher and more contact-based training sessions over the week off. The side will also benefit from the return of Reece Rushworth and Joe Budd, who were both rested against Saddleworth.

Mortimer added: "The team was good enough on paper but not on the night.

"I think it was the right decision, and I still do.

"We weren't at the level expected, myself included.

"There was one point where I walked away from the group and though 'I should have spoken to them about that', and we conceded points off a set play.

"We didn't lose because one or two played poorly - only three or four played to the best of their ability, staff included, and I shoulder the blame for that."

No local NCL or Yorkshire Men's League sides play this weekend.