In a season ravaged by rain, the battle for honours is the most evenly contested for years.

Current leaders Castle Eden showed some ruthlessness in disposing of Washington's challenge last week and now have more wins than any other side.

They go to Ryhope this weekend in search of win number six, but the home team will have been lifted by a more promising performance last time. Both sides are unchanged.

Seaham Park are in second spot after their positive tactics against Peterlee paid dividends, and go to Washington looking to build on their current momentum.

They are 12 points behind Castle Eden, which means the right combination of results could see them top.

Washington's recent burst of improved form came to an abrupt end against the leaders but their young side has shown great promise and face a Park side without Alan Dick. Michael Evans, who has been in outstanding form, comes back in.

Bill Quay were impressive last weekend as they won to move into third place and retain their proud record of being the only unbeaten side.

They go to Peterlee as overwhelming favourites, recognising that the match presents an opportunity to reinforce their own title ambitions. Quay turn out a settled line up while the home team will have changes to their side with a couple of players back from their holidays, but with both the first and second team captains away.

Easington have a vital game in hand over the top three after sitting out last week, but they need to keep the advantage a real one by winning matches.

Their game at Dawdon will be a tough one, although the home side have disappointed since the influx of players a month or so ago looked to have given their squad a timely boost.

For Silksworth and Murton the time has come for some consistency to be injected into their performances. With Calvin Stephenson now gathering some momentum, Murton will expect him to play a key role as the season moves towards its climax.

Boldon CA take their turn to sit the weekend out and will be hoping that the gap between themselves and the top does not widen.