MARSDEN have once again brought in a new recruit as they search for the formula that will rescue them from their plight at the foot of the Durham Senior League.

Ex-Eppleton skipper John Leslie has joined them with the talented all-rounder likely to inject enthusiasm into the club both on and off the field.

But he faces a tough baptism with his debut being against title-chasing Felling who play Nicky Heron in place of working skipper Chris Taylor.

Leaders Boldon will be missing Sean Bradbury as well as Chris Ellison as they travel to take on a Castle Eden side bouncing after last week’s record breaking effort at Durham which lifted them clear of danger. Alan Unsworth returns for the home team.

It’s now or never time for second-placed Esh Winning as they take on leaders Kimblesworth in the Durham County League. Both sides should be at full strength in a game that could re-invigorate the title race – or virtually end it.

Ryan Nicholson returns from holiday to try and keep Evenwood’s faint hopes alive in the home game against a Langley Park team missing David Jones, Jamie Winn and Jack Brennan who are in training for a demanding end of season charity event.

Form team Seaham Park are flying at the moment in the Durham Coast League, an undefeated ten-game run taking them from bottom to third. They play at Ryhope today with Mick McNicholas and Thomas Ferguson back in the side.

However, leaders Boldon CA will take some toppling as they remain firmly on course for the triple crown. They entertain Washington who, despite their league position, have lost just once in their last six outings. The visitors have to reckon without Phil Hooper but are otherwise at full strength.

Swalwell could face one of their biggest remaining NTSL tests when they play at Annfield Plain.

The home side have Martin Speight returning to the ranks after a week’s absence to resurrect the partnership with Neil Killeen that has been destroying opponents of late. Swalwell’s only absentee is broken finger victim Gary Johnson.

Shotley Bridge cannot afford any more slip ups as they try and play catch up after a surprising three defeats in five games. They entertain Morpeth with Lewis Hall and Will Cleaver replacing Andrew Smith and David Boldon.