Championship Preview: Batley v York

Batley Bulldogs will again be without Ayden Faal (ankle) for Sunday’s Kingstone Press Championship fixture with York City Knights at the LoveRugbyLeague.com stadium.

Batley coach John Kear is aiming for a quick recovery from last week’s 13-6 defeat against Sheffield Eagles.

Kear said: “We need to tighten up on individual errors and maintain the effort, application and defensive work ethic.”

Knights coach Gary Thornton insists his personal history will not detract from his side’s approach to Sunday’s trip to the Bulldogs.

Thornton, who spent 17 years with Batley as player, assistant coach and head coach, said: “It’s the first time I’ve been up there for three or four seasons, so it’ll be interesting from a personal point of view.

“But it won’t affect how the team prepares and how we approach the game. I was pleased with the performance against Swinton last week, and if we can carry on from that and kick on, then we can do well. I’m pleased with how things are developing for us.”

James Ford, who earned the Premier Sports Try of the Week award for his effort against the Lions, is 50/50 as he battles to overcome a thigh problem.

But the Knights look set to be boosted by the return of fit-again prop Luke Stenchion.