York Acorn will be looking to complete the first part of a pro-am double over Sheffield clubs to get the New Year off to a flying start.

Sheffield Hillsborough Hawks provide the opposition for Acorn on Saturday, the day before professional neighbours Sheffield Eagles visit York Wasps.

So far this season south Yorkshire clubs have proved a real thorn in the side of all York's teams. The Hawks have already recorded two successes against Acorn, including a Challenge Cup victory last month, and were one-point winners over New Earswick All Blacks. On the professional front, Doncaster Dragons trounced York Wasps on the opening day of the season.

Acorn get the first chance to reverse that trend as they try to claw their way off the foot of the National Conference second division.

Although beaten twice by Sheffield at home, they were both narrow defeats and they must fancy their chances of getting their own back on the Hawks' turf.

Sheffield are only five points and five places above the Blue and Golds, who must start winning to stay in touch with teams above them.

It is the Hawks defence which has proved their strength, conceding on average just 15 points a game. Their downfall has been their attack as they have managed just 14 points per game as opposed to Acorn's 16.

So in what should be another tight game, Acorn will be looking to their forwards to lay a solid foundation. Key pack men will be props Leigh Marshall and Paul Dodsworth who have impressed in the first part of the season.

The New Year also heralds a return for 20-year-old utility back Stephen Waldron who has now completed his lengthy ban for his part in the Hemel-York Wasps Academy brawl.

Away-day strugglers Heworth travel to Wigan St Judes in the NCL first division.

The Villagers are still seeking their first away win although their home record has kept them in mid-table. That is a position also occupied by St Judes but Heworth had the edge 22-20 when the sides met at Elm Park Way in September.

Heworth have almost a full squad to choose from with the exception of Craig Forsyth who is on holiday. Andy Tindall is still out with a long-term back injury.

York Groves get the year underway with an away game at Earlsheaton in Yorkshire League division five.

The Terriers gained a convincing win when the sides met at York but coach Alan Mitchell will not be underestimating the Dewsbury outfit, who should offer stiffer opposition on their own ground.

The major ommission from the Groves side is Martin Simpson who will be out of action until next season. He suffered internal injuries in the York and District Cup replay against Heworth and was released from hospital just before Christmas.

York Acorn 'A' entertain West Leeds in the Yorkshire League fourth division, hoping to emulate their 23-16 away win over the same opponents on the opening day of the season.

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