Fosters Northumberland and Tyneside Senior League: Newly installed leaders Ashington know that they cannot afford a slip up at home to strugglers Swalwell today since Tynedale are breathing down their necks.

"It is extremely tight, but I suppose it now looks as if the race for the championship is between Tynedale and ourselves," claimed captain David Rutherford.

"The decider could be when we meet at Hexham next month, but before then we have got to remain focused and pick up as many points as possible."

Two 16-year-olds, Adam Cragg and Paul Straker, line up for the Colliers this afternoon since Ben Harmison, who was drafted in at the last minute when Durham Academy's fixture was postponed, will today return to Geoff Cook's side. Ross Sample also gives way.

Following their shock first defeat of the season last Saturday Tynedale need to bounce back to form immediately when they take on Benwell and Walbottle. A blow to them is the continued absence of Scott Kay, widely regarded as one of the best batsmen in the league.

Tynedale show two alterations with Joe Barber coming in for his brother Craig, while Matthew Ridley replaces Dorian Hiles.

Although they are third and have suffered two defeats, Lanchester accept they have a mountain to climb if they are to overtake the sides above them. Victory over Annfield Plain today though, would not come amiss while Leadgate also feel they can have an impact on the race for the title after seeing off Tynedale last Saturday.

"It is a fact that five of our games have been lost to the weather and no other side has suffered so much. We have proved we can beat the best and now that the lads have had their holidays we will be able to field a strong side and perhaps keep on pushing for a top three place," said secretary Jeff Shield ahead of his side's game with Shotley Bridge at The Spa.

Whickham face mission impossible if they are to survive in the top flight. They comfortably won promotion last season but have found life difficult in Division A One and with ten games to play are 62 points from safety.

They cannot rate their chances of securing a first win at Newcastle City, who although disappointed at their mid table position, still boast a strong line-up.

In Division A Two, leaders Ponteland visit Consett and second top Burnopfield are at home to bottom of the table Blyth who have announced they will switch to the Three Counties Northumberland League next season.

Greenside host Alnwick with Michael Turnbull replacing Craig Scott.