Durham County's Gary Pratt is set to make his Foster's Northumberland and Tyneside League debut for Annfield Plain today, but Burnopfield will have to get along without Neil Killeen, who has so far played just once.

Pratt led Annfield Plain to victory at Crook Town when the sides met in the Armourpost Security Shutters DRV Challenge Cup, but has yet to play in the league because of his involvement at the Riverside.

Annfield Plain's fixture at Sacriston should attract more than a passing interest. Only three points separate the pair near the bottom and the Plain's chances are enhanced with the inclusion of Pratt and the availability of Gary Steadman and David Newstead. Steve Newstead, Chris Robinson and Naveed Ahmed make way.

Sacriston show no alterations and hope to improve on last week's performance against Shotley Bridge at the Spa where they were bowled out for only 107. Surprisingly they have managed just four victories in 11 attempts.

Killeen scored an unbeaten 97 and bowled an economical end in his only appearance for Burnopfield. Championship contenders Leadgate provide today's opposition.

Swalwell, who moved top last weekend, would have been odds-on favourites a fortnight ago to defeat Benwell and Walbottle who lost their first nine games.

But after upsetting the form book by defeating Newcastle City, Benwell made it two wins on the bounce at Lanchester last week and will be confident this afternoon.

Swalwell have Mark Rowell and David Scott taking over from Mark Gray and George Neaven.

Second-placed Ashington are three points off the top ahead of their game at Shotley Bridge while Tynedale, the defending champions, have moved into fourth position following recent successes.

Lanchester miss Stephen Robinson but Tony Halliday is an ideal replacement at Ponteland.

Competition is hotting up for the two promotion places in Division A2. Leaders Lintz, with only one defeat in nine games, visit second-bottom Ryton while Whickham, in second place are at third-top Greenside.