BRADFORD & BINGLEY begin life without star fly half Gerhard Nortier at Driffield tomorrow as they look to close the gap in the North One East play-off race.

The South African, who has returned to his homeland, is replaced at No 10 by Dom Copsey in a changed half-back pairing from last week’s win over Malton & Norton, Sam Jeffries coming in at scrum half for Lee Neha.

Fifth-placed Bees, who beat Driffield 39-12 at home in the corresponding fixture, are hoping to narrow the ten-point gap between themselves and West Hartlepool, who currently occupy second spot.

Other changes to their starting line-up see Sam White come in at prop for Michael Crotch, who drops to the bench, while Harry Jeffrey comes into the second row and captain Tom Booth moves to No 6, with Max Mountain dropping out.

Ilkley have locks Adam Newman and Harry Adams available again, along with winger Lewis Johnston, as they seek to end a six-match losing streak in National Three North when they host Sandal.

Head of rugby Rhys Morgan said: “It is important we are patient so that when our luck changes we can take advantage.”

Cleckheaton are also looking to stop the rot at Kendal, having lost three on the bounce, their last victory ironically coming against Ilkley.

Otley will aim to make it three wins on the spin since coach Mark Luffman departed when they head to Tynedale in National Two North.

Keighley are looking to put one over another Halifax neighbour after completing the double against Old Brodleians in Yorkshire One.

They host mid-table rivals Heath, while Bradford Salem welcome Selby.

Old Grovians visit bottom club Sheffield Medicals in Yorkshire Two and Baildon host Yorkshire Three table-toppers Knottingley.

Bradford & Bingley (at Driffield): Sam White, Matthew Cochrane, Ryan Wederell, Harry Jeffrey, Brett Mitchell, Tom Booth (c), Mani Riaz, Tom Cummins; Sam Jeffries, Dom Copsey, Adam Sutcliffe, Benny Greaves, Richard Tafa, Jack Malthouse, Nick Gore. Reps: Michael Crotch, Luke Peacock, Ryan Wilson.