Prop Jamie Daniel could make a long-awaited return for New Earswick All Blacks in their Pennine League division two match against Liversedge on Saturday.

The influential player has not played a single minute all season because of a long-term knee injury, but is on the brink of making a keenly anticipated comeback after training for the first time this week.

The news will surely bolster the high-flying All Blacks, who otherwise have a full squad to pick from for the important clash with Liversedge just two points behind. Their only absentees are the trio of Nigel Wilson, Sean Bewlay and Mark Boitout, who are all snowboarding.

Pennine division four leaders Acorn 'A' travel to Thornton to continue their stab at promotion, and York Groves head for Keighley Albion in division five looking for a good start to 2005.

Division leaders Selby Warriors could be facing an even bigger than billed clash of the giants with the visit of second-placed Wetherby Bulldogs.

Several of the Warriors contingent are carrying excess poundage following the Christmas festivities which included a four-week gap from competition.

The last game of 2004 saw the Warriors overcome their opponents 46-16 and go eight points clear, but any extra weight could now prove a handicap to a repeat performance.

Heworth 'A' will lock horns with CMS Yorkshire League division three leaders Oulton in an important top-three match at Elmpark Way.

Updated: 10:48 Thursday, January 06, 2005