Darlington Building Society NYSD Premier League

IN the game of the day tomorrow, new table-toppers Barnard Castle will be immediately challenged by Marske, who they replaced as new championship favourites last weekend.

Richard Borrowdale is unavailable, but James Alderson returns for Castle, and skipper James Finch said: “We are currently thriving on pressure games and this weekend's match doesn't come any bigger or more challenging. If we can overcome Marske again, we're left with five matches in pole position to complete our bid for what will be our first-ever premier division championship title. We have two more of the top five still to play, so we can't take anything for granted, but when you're at the top you are there to be shot at.”

Marske have three key players missing – skipper Lee Hodgson is away, Tom Irwin is also unavailable and Gary Lynch misses the first of three matches due to a family visit to Australia. Hodgson, the league's top run-maker, said: “I'm loath to miss such an important game, but I've got great faith in the rest of the team. We still have aspirations to win the title and will be going all out to get our revenge on Barnard Castle for beating us in the recent cup final."

After tomorrow, Marske have only one other top five opponent, Richmondshire, to meet in the final run-in to their season.

Richmondshire, in third, are unchanged for the trip to Guisborough, who have Tom Gittens and Dan Bowman both returning. Professional Dissanayake will be playing against one of his old clubs, having been described by the club's director of cricket, Chris Nicholls, as an inspirational captain.

Darlington, in fourth, have both skipper Paul Freary and Sam Hardy missing through holidays, so Andy Peacock gets a rare call-up from the second team and is joined by Jack Vickerman. They travel to Stokesley, who have improved of late and are now 42 points above the dreaded drop.

Great Ayton welcome back wicket-keeper John Grainge as they entertain struggling Normanby Hall, who have a few missing. Chris Trillo (working), Adam Beaumont (holiday) and Jordan Leech (unavailable) are all missing, but they are awaiting news on whether English professional Ryan Gibson will be made available by Yorkshire.

Billingham Synthonia, in deep relegation trouble, are unchanged when they make the short trip to Middlesbrough, who will have Paul Johnston returning. The visitors are stranded at the bottom, 58 points adrift of safety, with a very tough run-in and, with just five games to go, they need to start winning.

Norton entertain Hartlepool, with both teams comfortable in mid-table.

Seaton Carew can put their feet up and relax as it’s their turn for a blank weekend.

In division one, Marton still lead the way by 11 points and travel to Saltburn. Bishop Auckland, who are second, entertain third-placed Thornaby at Kingsway. Thornaby have played one game fewer than their rivals and could effectively go top with their game in hand as they are just 21 points behind the leaders.