There is no doubt where the match-of-the-day is. Third-placed Redcar Town meet leaders North Shields with just five points separating the pair although the hosts have a game in hand on their rivals.

"It's a massive match for both teams," declared Redcar manager Dave Tait who will definitely be without a couple of players.

"Paul Parkes and Paul Dodkins are suspended and I am waiting to see if Brian Crawley and Kevin Woods can play. I also need to keep an eye out for Monday when we play Birtley Town in the final of the Monkwearmouth Charity Cup and decide whether to rest anyone this afternoon."

North Shields boss Terry Paddison's only absentee is expected to be Stephen Close, who is banned for one week.

Paul Symons has shown good form since his recent transfer and is confident of passing a fitness test.

Third-top New Marske, held to a draw by Ryhope CW in midweek, travel to Ferryhill Athletic needing to win to keep alive their championship aspirations. Jason Hammond is expected to line-up and Nathan Jamieson may be given a run-out.

Following their recent successful cup exploits, Stokesley SC return to League duty at home to Jarrow unable to call upon regular scorer Jonathan Tait, who will not play again this season after sustaining a cartilage injury.

His brother Stephen is hoping to return after missing out last week because of a groin strain and Mark Cooper is fit again. Martin Pugh is a doubt with an injury to his ankle.

Jarrow are considerably strengthened with Paul Scott, Gary Attwell, Paul Donachie, Michael Bean and Scott Mason all coming into the plans of manager Paul Thu, who could give a debut to Paul Tirrell. Keith Hallway, though, is missing.

Annfield Plain are another side with five players available. Gareth Slavin, John Peacock, Chris Soulsby, Chris Nevin and Terry Goodwin all missed last week's match when boss Kevin Drinkeld played. Visitors Cleadon SC may be unable to call upon Brian Mulvane.

Ryhope CW will select from the same squad that drew with New Marske for the home match with Harton and Westoe although Chris Callaghan will need to prove his fitness. Jason Jones resumes for the visitors and he could prove the ideal replacement for unavailable centre back Eddie Hudspith. David Wright is again absent from the Boldon CA line-up and Patrick James is extremely doubtful for the visit to Windscale.

Keith McKenna expects to be back but Andrew Whalley is still carrying an injury and a late decision on his availability will need to be taken