Ilkley start their countdown to Christmas on Saturday when they visit Bridlington.

Head of rugby Rhys Morgan has highlighted the next four matches as being a crucial barometer of his side’s SSE Yorkshire Division One promotion hopes.

The trip to the east coast is followed by a home game with Dinnington and an awkward away clash to their bogey side North Ribblesdale, before a Stacks Field showdown against leaders Wath on December 14.

Ilkley are currently second in the table, and Morgan is anxious that his men do not lose their focus in the run-up to the festive season.

“We dropped points this time last year and then couldn’t make up the gap on Driffield and Huddersfield YMCA, who were both promoted,” recalled Morgan.

“After our record league win against Acklam and our 67-13 York-shire Shield victory against Hullen-sians, we have to ensure that we play as a team,” he added.

“We have run in some good tries in the past two games, but some times we have become a bit too individ- ualistic and we need to ensure we concentrate on our phase play.

“Bridlington are a tough side and we cannot afford to be complacent in any way. This will be a real test and we must ensure we do not slip up.”

Ilkley will be boosted by the news that experienced flanker Iain Mc-Kenzie is fit again.

The Ilkley selectors face a tough decision over the back row as players like Stuart Brewer, Charlie Davy and Ollie Renton have all been perform-ing well.

Alastair Monks and Steve Nolson are set to continue at centre with JH Johnson and Craig Barker still recovering from their recent injuries.