Readers' Durham County League: "Whoever loses today's game will almost certainly be out of the race for the championship," claimed Tudhoe secretary David Linford ahead of the visit of Kimblesworth.

"We have played the same number of matches and are five points better off than our rivals, but 28 adrift of Evenwood, who have played a game more. I think the winners will still be in with a chance of overtaking Evenwood so everything is at stake today."

Tudhoe have Chris Glasper, Tim Smalley and Adrian Stocker all included in their line-up, but Jonathan Taylor cannot play.

A big blow to the chances of Kimblesworth is the news that both captain Michael Fishwick and his deputy Barry Strong are unable to turn-out.

"Michael has had to rush to Australia to see his father who is ill and Barry has been advised by his doctor not to play. He has had a toe injury and played through the pain barrier but the time has come to rest up," said Kimblesworth secretary Malcolm Bartle.

Leaders Evenwood host unchanged Brandon with brothers Michael and Paul Townsend taking over from the unavailable David Jacobs and Chris Coatsworth. Evenwood are 14 points ahead of Willington, who have played one less fixture.

Willington visit Esh Winning and official Neil Moore reckons at least four sides are in the running for the title.

"It could go right to the wire since we all have to play each other but the ball is now in our court. If we win all our matches we will be crowned champions but it will be a tall order," said Moore.

Captain Steve Donnelly returns today and Esh also show just one change with John Rippon taking over from the ever-reliable Stephen Thexton. Shildon have almost a full side unavailable and with Lee Douthwaite unable to play, Gary Davis will lead a severely depleted line-up at Etherley. "For one reason or another, we have nine players sidelined, but we have one or two coming back," said secretary Trevor Henderson, who is included in the side.

David Gladstone is absent from the Langley Park line-up at home to Ushaw Moor so Alan Gray takes over the responsibility of captain.

Ryan Moralee, who was injured playing football, is hoping to play and Brian Robinson is included with 14-year old Jamie Winn, who made his debut last week, standing down. Ushaw Moor welcome the return of their captain Michael Hayton.

Crook Town, who expect to have a professional next season, go to Mainsforth with both Andy Burgess and Peter Robinson in the line-up. "It has been a struggle this year operating without a pro. We were let down at the last minute before the start of this season but we hope to have someone signed up in plenty of time" said official Alan Stewart.