Former Heworth coach Alfie Hill is returning to local rivals York Acorn as head coach.

Hill left Heworth in the summer after two years at the helm and has been in the frame for the Acorn job ever since the departure of coach Eric Fitzsimons.

After a number of discussions and a degree of thought, Hill has now opted to take the reins at Thanet Road with the help of assistant coaches Barry Gargan and former York City Knight Darren Callaghan, with Paul Lumby continuing as team manager.

And Hill, who has been an interested spectator so far this season, is confident he can restore stability to the Blue and Golds' ship.

He said: "I've been watching them this season and they have struggled since getting rid of the other coach.

"It's probably the best squad they have ever had. There's a lot of lads under 23 and most are under 26. There's youth in the side and you've also got that bit of experience too.

"The league looks as though it is evening out between the top six teams. The ones that are half-way and just below half-way are capable of beating anyone.

"If we stay injury free and keep a full side out then we could be up there.

"What I wouldn't like to do though is get up with a team that can't play in the premier division so if we don't make it this season, it won't be a big disappointment."

Hill has strong links with the club, having helped build the current facilities several years back, and then coaching almost every age group for a spell, including the first team when they were in division two.

Added Hill, who has coached both the select York Ironsides and BARLA Yorkshire in recent years: "Basically, these lads have had me all their lives. They know me and they all know the good side of me and they will probably all get to know the other side of me, too."

Acorn chairman Kev Warters said: "Alfie Hill is coming back after four years away.

"There's going to be no other changes regarding the present coaching set-up because they are all doing a great job.

"All we are doing is getting somebody to head it all up and take us a bit further forward."

Hill will take charge of his first training session tonight ahead of a stiff opening encounter against West Bowling.

Updated: 09:51 Tuesday, November 22, 2005