RFL MATCH PREVIEW: North Wales Crusaders vs York RLFC 

The only previous meeting between these two sides in a full 80-minute affair took place on the closing day of last season Championship North campaign which saw the Crusaders come out on top in a feisty encounter to clinch the league title. However, the sides did meet earlier in the 2023 campaign at a development festival which saw York come away 4-0 victors in the short 8-minute matches.

In a battle of the best second place teams, the Crusaders host knowing that a win for them will result in a semi-final play-off against Sheffield Eagles whilst the visitors know that a victory for them will result in a semi-final against Hereford Harriers.

York who have been on a good run this season, recording some famous victories over established side Bradford Bulls whilst putting on an absolute clinic against fellow newbies, Wakefield Trinity and Hull KR, only losing two fixtures, both of which being against the eventual Championship East champions, Sheffield Eagles.

Saturday will see the full return of Crusaders veteran, Harry Jones as he looks to make a full return following surgery whilst York are also boosted by return of Karl Shepherd following a leg break earlier in the season.

York are also backed-up by former World Cup winner and then Ireland star Stewart Walker along with youngster Calum Japes, who made his Scotland debut earlier in the season.

The Crusaders will be looking for a convincing win following receiving som abuse from York players and supports on social media for handing the Yorkshire side their only loss(es) of the 2023 campaign.

The Crusaders will also be selling raffle tickets on the day for the clubs annual Rugby League raffle, with all proceeds going to Hope House Children's Hospice.

Venue:

Wrexham University Sports Centre, Wrexham, LL11 2AW

Pre-Match:

Supporters of both teams will be able to access the venue from 11:00am ahead of the scheduled 11:30am kick-off.

Match Squads:

Match Officials:

Paul Ward, Grant Jackson