Otley's player-coach Tom Rock is damping down expectations after their 43-18 defeat at Luctonians last Saturday in SSE National League Two North.

He said: “People have to remember where we have come from and be aware that there is still a long way to go.

“Last season we just avoided relegation in the final game of the season. We have made strides but we are not a top side yet.

“The players are working hard and we are progressing, but we know as a group that there are things we must improve on.

“The pleasing thing is that we are on an upward curve. There are many positives to work on, but we mustn’t allow unrealistic expectations to weigh us down.

Old Grovians have have named a 24-man squad but have several injury concerns ahead of the SSE Yorkshire Division Four home game against Halifax.

Back-rower Tom Whitehead is definitely out after injuring his ribs in last week’s narrow win at Ossett and will be replaced by Sam Robinson, who returns from suspension. 

Flanker Tom Adams and winger Joe Sowdon both face late fitness tests.

Old Grovians (home to Halifax) from: J Bradley, J Hinchliffe, A Weaving, D Hogg, L Downes, A Griffin, R Hopkinson, G Philips, B Robinson. B Brown, J Sowden, K Hawkins, M Gaffney, C Blackhall, M Worrall, A Driver, D Gul, J Trenholme, J Deu, C Cockshott, D Roberts, B Williams, T Adams, D Foster, S Robinson.