York City Knights are hoping tomorrow’s long-awaited match against arch-foes Hunslet will attract their biggest attendance of the season – despite the obvious fixture clash with York City’s trip to Wembley.
Tomorrow’s Huntington Stadium match doubles up as the club’s annual school family fun day.
As reported by The Press, the extravaganza was organised long before thoughts turned to a possible Blue Square Premier play-off final date for the Minstermen, although plans are in place to give supporters the chance to watch both games, with City’s match live on Sky after the Knights’ game finishes.
Fliers to promote the Knights’ event and offer free admission to under-16s and cut-price entry for new fans have gone out to all schools in the area, with coupons also printed in The Press this week.
Turnstiles at Courtney’s end of the ground open at the earlier time of 12.45pm and fans will have the chance to take part in a number of activities including Action Zone Outdoor Laser Quest, an Army assault course and games of tag rugby on the pitch.
Club chiefs are also urging all Knights supporters to bring a friend along to “help roar the team to victory”.
Knights general manager Ian Wilson said: “It’s the one we have all been waiting for. Both teams will be up for the game and we will need to be at our best to get the three points.”
Hunslet will come with numerous ex-Knights in their line-up, led by former Knights player-coach Paul March.
Wilson added: “Knowing Paul, I know he will have the Hawks fired up and I’m sure we will be in for a very entertaining afternoon.
“I urge all Knights fans to come along and support the lads and bring a friend along to help us build on last week’s win at Oldham.”
Wilson was aware the attendance would be affected by City’s play-off final against Oxford United.
But supporters not going to Wembley are reminded that Bar 13 at Huntington Stadium will be showing the final live on the big screen from 5pm, after the final hooter of the Knights’ match.
There is a limit of 200 people in the bar and they will be admitted on a first come first served basis.
Meanwhile, new director of rugby Dave Woods will speak to Knights fans before every home game from now on – starting tomorrow.
The former Gateshead and Castleford boss will give his pre-match thoughts to supporters in Bar 13 from 2.35pm, discussing the upcoming match as well as information regarding team selection and injury news. This will continue at all home matches for the remainder of the season.
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