Kimblesworth, denied the opportunity to stay out in front when their game at Ushaw Moor was the only one to be cancelled last week, aim to keep the pressure on new leaders Evenwood by defeating Tudhoe today.

"Obviously we were all disappointed that last week's fixture was washed out, but we have to live with it and focus on our remaining six games. It is very tight at the top and all to play for," said Kimblesworth secretary Malcolm Bartle.

Kimblesworth are at full-strength and Tudhoe, who are now in fifth position after languishing near the bottom in the early weeks of the season, show one change with Ian Robson coming in for the unavailable Kevin Littlefair.

Evenwood appear to have an easy task visiting Shildon, who have failed to win in 18 attempts. The visitors are nine points in front at the top and even though they could be without five players, still start favourites.

John Bond, Paul Watson and Jonathan Gale are definitely ruled out and there are injury doubts surrounding Kevin Watson and John Dawson.

Shildon deserve credit for the way they have doggedly stuck to the task despite losing on no fewer than 17 occasions. To date, they have claimed just 37 points out of a possible 360.

They cannot call upon Stuart Henderson or Chris Lion so Alan Ramsey and Michael Parker are drafted into the side.

Crook Town consider they are still in with a chance of clinching the title after going 13 games unbeaten.

"It is not over by a long chalk. We have not lost since early May and we will be going all out for the 20 points at Sedgefield," said fixture secretary David Greener, who reports that Ian Williams returns as replacement for the unavailable Andrew Burgess.

Etherley host Ushaw Moor strengthened by the inclusion of Colin Barker while the visitors again miss the injured Brendan Jackson.

Steve Jones and Andrew Guy are both sidelined and Willington replace the pair with Steve Murray and Paul Clark for the home game with Brandon, who are still looking to finish in the top four.

Their form has slipped recently and they need the 20 points if they are to achieve their objective.

Scott Hopson has recovered from a broken finger and resumes to the exclusion of Paul Swords. Langley Park make just one change for their game at Mainsforth with the returning Michael White taking over from Phil Storey.

Mainsforth have experienced pair John Irvine and Arthur Willoughby lining up, but Danny Morgans and John Sweeney cannot play.