Ryhope rise to the top

9:38am Saturday 14th June 2008

AS the dominant forces of recent seasons, Murton and Castle Eden, were slugging it out with each other last Saturday, Ryhope were racking up their fifth win of the season to take over the leadership.

It is six years since anyone else's name was engraved on the championship trophy, and 12 since Ryhope had their hands on the pot.

Ryhope are now top and predictions that they would be a force to be reckoned with seem well founded. They have shown great all-round strength and will be put to the test when they travel to take on a Dawdon side that has so far struggled to make an impact.

Ryhope have achieved their successes without the services of one of their strike bowlers, John Errington, who was injured at work. His return is eagerly anticipated.

Both last week's absentees, skipper Chris Errington and Andy Pettey, will be back to take on Dawdon, who are at full strength.

Murton's trip to Seaham Park could be a tough assignment as the home side, with title ambitions themselves.

Alan Dick and David Morton are back from London, although Andrew Docherty and Peter Hamilton are likely to miss out through injury. The visitors expect to be unchanged.

Castle Eden continue their remarkable record of turning out the same team week after week for the trip to Easington. The home team are choosing from a squad of 14, although hope to turn out an unchanged side themselves.

Bill Quay were struggling against Peterlee last week but eventually came out on top, so should take some confidence into their game at Boldon CA.

Quay are stengthened by the return of Craig Falcus from holiday, with Nathan Drewery returning to the seconds.

CA field the same side that defeated Dawdon last time out.

Washington will be looking to build on their improved form of late as they entertain Peterlee.

The home side anticipate having their best line-up out for this one, although the visitors will be missing Paul Griffith through holidays.

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