FORMER Wasps skipper Alan Pallister is all set for some birthday cheer, having this week received a present from the supporters.

Pally, who has been unable to train with his team-mates because of work commitments down south, is due to be properly back in the fold by January, and can't wait to get back into action.

He did travel to York for Sunday's season opener against Whitehaven and it was at Huntington Stadium where he received his gift two days ahead of his 31st birthday.

After the match, he was presented with a cheque to officially mark the close of his testimonial year, which came to an end in October.

Money was raised for the Wasps stalwart at a variety of events, some more bizarre than others - including a disco and cabaret, ladies night, race night, pig race, umpah night, auction, and a blue comic/Rod Stewart impressionist double-act.

The cheque was presented by testimonial committee treasurer - and the person behind most of the events - Ann Wright.

She said: "We'd like to thank all those who attended the events and those who gave donations, including the ex-players' association."

While Wasps are on the longest losing run currently in the NFP, former York player Rich Goddard is on the best scoring sequence throughout the league.

York have suffered 20 successive defeats, their last win being 21-4 at home to Gateshead Thunder on 22 February.

But Goddard, now of Sheffield Eagles is the NFP player with the current longest club point-scoring run of 22 cup and league matches.

The back row forward's run began with four goals in the 14-12 Silk Cut Challenge Cup fourth round defeat at Doncaster Dragons on 11 February.

In better news for Wasps, the strength in depth at Huntington Stadium this season compared to last is highlighted by their desire to play reserve fixtures.

On a few occasions last term, the then coach Lee Crooks had trouble just getting out 17 first-team players, but new boss Leo Epifania so far has 29 names (including trialists) in his squad plus the academy youngsters.

And although not members of the new six-strong NFP Alliance competition which will run from January to April, York have indicated a wish to play friendly fixtures during this time.

Those six teams, by the way, are Batley, Dewsbury, Gateshead, Oldham, Rochdale and Workington.

Leo Epifania might have endured an unfortunate start to his first Northern Ford Premiership campaign on Sunday, but he has already enjoyed a progress of sorts in the Challenge Cup.

As the Wasps continue their links with the Armed Forces' RL teams, boss Leo coached the Army side for three sessions last week prior to their first round clash with Saddleworth.

And he then gave a rousing team talk before Saturday's game which the Army won 15-6, their best-ever result against an amateur club side.

The Army have been drawn to visit Holton in the next round of the competition.

Almost £1,000 was raised for the New York disaster fund thanks to the generosity of the Wasps and their fans at Huntington Stadium on Sunday.

The club, who are sponsored by the New York Economic Development Council, donated £1 for every paying spectator at the game against Whitehaven, and also held a collection at half-time.

Members of York's fire service - who began fund-raising for their New York counterparts immediately after the September 11 atrocity - were presented to the players before the game, while council dignitaries were also there.

And their collection was boosted by the £925 raised on the day.

New signing Michael Docherty took an early lead in the Evening Press player of the year standings following his hard-working display in the defeat by Whitehaven.

He received three points as man of the match, with another newcomer, Carl Hall, picking up two points for shining brightest in attack while staying firm defensively. The final point went to Andy Precious.

This year's player of the year award is again sponsored by Guildford Construction.

The Wasps' man of the match in each game receives three points, the second best player two points and the third best one point. Whoever tops the table at the end of the season will receive £350 courtesy of Guildford Construction, with the runner-up winning £150.