Captain Jez Petch will be hoping for an inspirational return to the New Earswick All Blacks' side tonight

Petch, who has missed the last three games with a broken thumb, comes back into contention for the crunch trip to fellow National Conference League re-election candidates Castleford Panthers.

The All Blacks, bottom of division two, have just two games left - the other is at home to champions elect Thatto Heath on Saturday - to escape the re-election zone. Though mathematically one win from two could be enough, realistically they must win both.

Victory for the Panthers tonight in what is their final game will secure their safety, while defeat will leave their fate in the hands of New Earswick, Dewsbury Moor and Milford.

The All Blacks' hopes should be boosted by the inclusion of Richard and Mick Harrison who were unavailable for their last match against Dewsbury Moor a fortnight ago.

York Groves stayed on course for a top four play-off place in Yorkshire League division five with a 10-8 victory over neighbours New Earswick All Blacks 'A' last night.

Tries by scrum-half John Thompson and Nigel Ridsdale sandwiched a converted try by New Earswick to put Groves 8-6 ahead at half-time.

As defences got on top, All Blacks levelled with a penalty before Thompson broke the deadlock with a penalty to give Groves their fourth win over New Earswick this season.

If they win their final match of the season, also against All Blacks, they will qualify for the play-offs.

Updated: 12:24 Wednesday, May 02, 2001