YORK Wasps boss Leo Epifania is working overtime to give the supporters the perfect Christmas present - a first win since February.

The Australian has shrugged off his first English cold to draw up a battle plan for the Boxing Day basement clash against Hunslet Hawks at South Leeds Stadium (kick off 3.30pm).

And he has said neither he nor his players will enjoy an elongated rest over the festive period as they strive to give the Wasps' loyal support their Christmas wish.

"I won't have any family over here with me so I will make the players train to keep me company," he joked.

"I think a win is very important at this stage," he told the Evening Press. "Hunslet are not going to be one of the top sides and it's a good opportunity for us to get on track."

York might be at the foot of the NFP - on points scored from the Hawks - but the mood among the fans improved greatly after Sunday's narrow loss to Batley and hopes are high that Wasps will enjoy their first victory in 24 attempts.

Epifania, too, was pleased with the improvement shown by Wasps following the debacle at Barrow, but today reiterated that much more was needed.

"It was encouraging and a step in the right direction in a lot of areas. However, it was only in stages and that is something we have to build on," he said.

"For example, our defence has to be strong all the game. We did not maintain what we're supposed to do for the whole game.

"The week before we did not do anything right all day, so at least we're on the right path at the moment. The most encouraging thing was the fact there was a lot of determination and good spirit."

Wasps picked up a few niggly injuries last day, with stand-off Jonny Liddell (leg) being the biggest worry. Epifania said he was set to make a few changes anyway as he continues his search for the best combinations.

"There will be a couple of changes but it's too early for me to say where just yet," he said.

This clash plus the New Year's Day match against Swinton are the first festive fixtures Epifania will have been involved in. Australian league matches take place in the winter months (British summer months), while in France clubs enjoy a two-week break.

"I've never really thought about whether we should have a Christmas break," he said, admitting that he was likely to run up a massive telephone bill tomorrow. "Maybe we should have a couple of weeks off. It's a difficult period to get guys away from their family, but I suppose you can't not play at all.

"I'm quite happy to play the games and I know how good a victory would be."

Updated: 11:00 Monday, December 24, 2001