Heworth'S rampaging loose-forward Steve Barnard could miss his side's trip to National Conference League division two second-placed outfit Crosfields after he was named in the Yorkshire squad for the BARLA County Championship, writes Tony Curtis.

Reigning champions Yorkshire have named Barnard, who scored a hat-trick against Cottingham Tigers on Saturday, in their 27-strong squad to take on Cumbria at the Cumbria Sports Academy on Sunday.

But Barnard will not find out until Friday if he has made it into the squad to travel for the fixture.

If Barnard, as it is expected, is on county duty, Heworth would travel to Warrington-based Crosfields - one of the league's top teams - without one of their key performers this season.

Jason Kane and Simon Harrison will both come into contention to replace him, after they impressed for the 'A' team last week, but the Villagers will delay the naming of the team until they know Barnard's availability for certain.

Having lost to Crosfields last week, York Acorn face another of the top three in division two when they entertain Milford Marlins.

Third-placed Marlins, who put in a brave display against York Wasps in the Kellogg's Nutri-Grain Challenge Cup, are pushing for the second promotion spot and need a victory tomorrow to stay in with a chance of overtaking Crosfields.

Conversely, Acorn will be hoping both they and Crosfields - hosts to Heworth - can gain maximum points as they attempt to finish above their Elm Park Way-based rivals.

Captain Lee Franks made a surprise return to the 'A' team after it was initially believed he would be out for the season, so he is likely to come back into first team contention.

Nicky Caldwell should also return after being ruled out of the trip to Crosfields through work commitments.

Selby Warriors will have to find some way to de-rail the charge on runaway CMS Yorkshire League division three leaders Hunslet Old Boys.

The South Leeds side have won all 16 of their league games this season, brushing all aside in their path.

There is an all-local tie as York Groves and New Earswick All Blacks clash in their delayed Accident Cup semi-final.

Both sides are expected to be at full strength for the clash which kicks off at 2.30pm at New Earswick's ground.

Updated: 11:52 Thursday, March 14, 2002