St Helens v York Knights: Mark Applegarth urges injury-hit side to embrace latest challenge

It has been a tough initiation for the Knights in their maiden Super League campaign, with an injury crisis robbing Applegarth of 10 players for the trip to Saints.

The York boss views the hosts as a good example of how to dig out results in difficult circumstances.

"They've been finding ways to win," said Applegarth.

"They've had to chop and change a lot themselves with injuries. It's the sign of a good team when you can still grind wins out.

"We know we need to match that challenge. It's one we're looking forward to. These are the sort of games you want to be playing in.

"They're unbeaten at home so far this year. We'll go and give it our best shot."

Applegarth could name only an 18-man squad, featuring as many as six loan players.

Sam Wood and Josh Griffin, who is nursing a serious pec injury, drop out of the team that beat Toulouse Olympique.

Those fresh issues have denied Applegarth the chance to field an unchanged side for a third straight game.

"I don’t think it's any coincidence that was the second time we put the same team out and got a really consistent performance in what we did," he said.

"I don't think we were a million miles off against Leigh, I just thought we didn't take our opportunities when they came. The lads took that on board and obviously iced their opportunities when they came last week.

"The challenge now is to make sure we kick on again."

Despite being down to the bare bones, York can still call on Paul Vaughan and Paul McShane.

The experienced duo have yet to miss a game this season.

"They are quality players," said Applegarth.

"When Paul Vaughan and Paul McShane are on the field for us, especially together, you can tell.

"It's two seasoned warhorses that are a massive part of what we do this year at York. Both are role models for other players in their position and I'm just really glad that they are on our team.”