THE players of York RUFC must have belief if they are going to defeat top of the table Driffield in Yorkshire One tomorrow.

That’s the message from Clifton Park coach Sean Bass going into the big home clash.

Bass said: “I told the players to believe in themselves.

“We coaches believe in them and it’s our job to instil belief within the team.”

Bass’ side are currently fifth in the table, ten points behind fourth-placed Ilkley.

Last Saturday, York threw away a seven-point lead with only two minutes remaining to draw 35-35 with second-placed Huddersfield YMCA.

On the draw, Bass stated: “We were absolutely gutted at full-time.

“We were quietly confident of the win before the game and we should have closed it out.

“I was pleased with the team’s overall performance but at the end we were left deflated.”

York extended their unbeaten run to ten games, but they will arguably face their biggest test at home to Driffield.

Despite the impressive run, Bass said: “We’ve got a lot of work to do.

“The team are playing at about 70 per cent of what they can play. We are all demanding more from each other, the coaches of the players and the players of the coaches.”

With less than ten matches left to play, Bass signalled his side’s intentions: “I think the team can finish in the top four, that’s where we would certainly like to be.

“However, we are only concentrating on Driffield.”

Selby coach Richard Nicholson has warned his side to be ready ahead of their trip to second from bottom Skipton.

Nicholson, whose side currently lie second in Yorkshire Two, said: “Skipton is a tough place to go.

“They have some very tough lads and are an improved side since the last time we played them.

“Every team can beat each other in this league.”

The Swans are in a confident mood after winning their last six games, including last weekend’s thumping 97-3 Senior Vase win at home to Winlaton Vulcans.

Nicholson praised his team, stating: “They’re really hard-working with a good attitude.

“There’s a good spirit about the lads and they get on well off the field which always helps.”

Given their league position and on-going involvement in the Vase, this has been a good season so far for Selby, but Nicholson believes the club’s run-in could be difficult.

He said: “The cup means there could be more midweek fixtures, which will be extra difficult on the players.

“However, it has been squad effort all the way through. We have some very good players who have stepped in and done well when needed.”