BULLS' Championship fixture at York City Knights will be played at Bootham Crescent rather than the Knights' new stadium.

It was hoped that the league match on Sunday, February 9 would be the first at the LNER Community Stadium.

But York have confirmed that, due to uncertainty over when their new ground will be ready, the clash will take place at their current home.

Knights chairman Jon Flatman said: “The latest information we have been provided is unable to guarantee that we will be able to play at the new stadium on that date.

"In simple terms, we require – and fans rightly expect – a degree of notice in order to purchase tickets, arrange travel and deliver marketing for what will be a brilliant home league opener. To remove that uncertainty we have taken the decision to play the fixture at Bootham Crescent.

“Bootham Crescent in recent years holds fantastic memories of a promotion winning season and an excellent 2019 season. Fixtures between the two clubs at Bootham Crescent have witnessed exciting close games in recent years.

“We fully expect to be in the new LNER Community Stadium for our second home league game in 2020.”

It was revealed earlier this week that two test events planned at the new stadium, which is based at Monks Cross in York, were cancelled.

Tickets for the Championship clash - which will be the Bulls' first away fixture after their league opener at home to London - will soon be available online and from both club ticket offices.

The clubs - who have developed a strong rivalry in recent seasons - also play a friendly at the Bulls' temporary home at Dewsbury Rams' Tetleys Stadium on Sunday, January 26.