Castleford Tigers v York Knights MARK APPLEGARTH has urged supporters to stick with York Knights as they tackle the harsh realities of life in Super League.

The top-flight newcomers have lost 11 of their past 12 games since starting the season with encouraging wins over Hull KR and Hull FC.

York were hammered 72-20 by Wigan Warriors last weekend but received unflinching support from the home fans.

Applegarth is determined to give the supporters something more meaningful to cling to than the four late consolation tries against Wigan.

RACE AGAINST TIME: Paul McShane is hoping to be fit in time to face former club Castleford Tigers for York Knights on Friday night. Picture: Alex Whitehead/SWpix.com

placeholder image — RACE AGAINST TIME: Paul McShane is hoping to be fit in time to face former club Castleford Tigers for York Knights on Friday night. Picture: Alex Whitehead/SWpix.com

"I fully understand the frustration at me, whether that's team selection or things not feeling like they're changing," said the Knights boss. "Believe me, there's a lot of work going on that they probably don't see right now.

"I can't thank the fans enough. If there's one thing I've loved since I've been at York, it's how connected we feel to the fanbase.

"I thought they were class last year when we were going through some better times; I think they're even better this year when they're going through some pretty tough times.

"My message is: stick with us. It really doesn't go unnoticed how much support they have been giving us."

WE MEET AGAIN: York head coach Mark Applegarth and Castleford head coach Ryan Carr greet each other before last month's meeting between their teams in York. Picture by Alex Whitehead/SWpix.com

While York are smarting from their heaviest Super League defeat yet, Friday's hosts Castleford Tigers have found consistency in their performances.

Ryan Carr's men have won three games either side of narrow defeats to Leigh Leopards and Catalans Dragons, a run that began with a hard-fought victory at York.

"I think they used that win against us as a bit of a catalyst to get their season up and running," acknowledged Applegarth.

"You can see the work Ryan has been putting into them. They're a very well-coached team.

"Going to Castleford is always a good atmosphere. We know we're going to have to be at our best to get what we need."

Few know Wheldon Road better than Paul McShane.

The veteran hooker, who won the Man of Steel during his long spell at Castleford, has missed the last three games with a calf injury but is pushing to return against his former club.

"We're hoping Macca will make it," said Applegarth. "We'll leave him until Friday to see if he makes it or not."