YORK Acorn face a crucial four-pointer on Saturday in the battle for promotion from the National Conference League division two.

Acorn's cross-city rivals, Heworth, have not ruled out their chances of sneaking the second promotion spot, but following their defeat by leaders Hunslet Warriors, the race for that runners-up place is headed by three teams.

And two of those - Acorn and Crosfields - go head-to-head this weekend (KO 2pm).

The York outfit travel to their Warrington-based foes knowing the Cheshiremen will want to avenge their 34-8 defeat at Thanet Road earlier this season.

Acorn spokesman Paul Lumby said: "Due to personnel changes and current form, a repeat of that isn't on the cards and if Acorn are to register an important double then we must play much better than of late.

"At this stage it's vital that you don't allow one of your nearest rivals any advantage especially when it comes to head-to-head games."

Acorn hope to have back influential loose forward Rob Lee and centre Chris Martin, who both missed last week due to work commitments. Full-back Kenny Embleton (leg) and prop Paul Dodsworth (hamstring) face late tests.

"We will start as underdogs especially considering our away record against teams at the top this season - we've lost at both Hunslet and Milford," added Lumby. "But confidence is good and the players know this is vitally important."

New Earswick coach Simon Baynes is confident his team can follow their narrow defeat against Oulton 'A' last week with a shock victory over Moorends in their Yorkshire League senior division clash (KO 2pm).

All Blacks hope to have Chris Ashton back after a shoulder injury.

Selby Warriors have had to concede their Gordon Teal White Rose Trophy match against Good Companions because they are unable to field a side this weekend.

The cancellation means they will miss out on pitting their wits against York Wasps close-season signing Carl Hall, who is first-team coach and director of rugby at the Bentley-based club.

York Acorn 'A' and Heworth 'A' both aim to transfer their fine Yorkshire League form into a good knock-out run as they turn their attentions to the Alliance Cup.

Acorn entertain division three rivals Castleford Lock Lane 'A' (kick off 2pm), while Heworth travel to division four rivals East Leeds 'A'.

Updated: 11:47 Thursday, November 15, 2001