With the leading trio on cup duty, one-time leaders Cleadon SC have the opportunity to consolidate fourth position when they meet New Marske.

Manager Doug Key has a full squad available and said: "New Marske are just a place behind us and although we are five points better off, they have three games in hand so it is imperative we win."

New Marske are hoping to have a regular goalkeeper on duty. Recently, they have experienced problems because of injuries but youngster Lee Fleming is almost certain to return.

Barnard Castle Glaxo visit second-bottom Washington Nissan UK hopeful of maintaining the improved form they have shown. Manager John Hall reports that Simon Rathbone and Joe Baum are both on crutches while Chris Beckett is attending a wedding.

"The three will be missed but fortunately Ali Logan is back from injury and Ross Murray is free from work," declared Hall.

Nissan secretary Kirk Kitching is hoping to strengthen the squad by making signings before the game.

Annfield Plain anticipate having a full squad available for their home fixture with Ryhope CW, who go into the match sixth top - their highest spot this season.

Four ties will be played in the Sunderland Shipowners' Cup. North Shields meet Wolviston at Ralph Gardner Park with Andy Stokes and Dominic Riley resuming.

Wolviston, who won the cup last season, will be out to avenge a 4-0 defeat at the hands of North Shields earlier in the season.

They are boosted by the return of young full back Matthew Martin following trials with Sheffield Wednesday, and influential midfielder David Dowd has recovered from a broken cheekbone. Paul Griffiths is suspended.

Birtley Town are another side with few worries ahead of their difficult home tie with Darlington RA, who have a slight doubt regarding Gary Hornsby. Boss Dave Woodcock names James Chapman for only his second game following his transfer from Shildon, and Steve Johnson, who played for Whitby Town earlier in the campaign, will be in the attack.

Ferryhill Athletic go to Windscale and manager Mark Fanning is pleased that Stuart Cottam, Philip Appleby, James Cotterill and Stephen Salisbury can all play. Graeme Kine is extremely doubtful though, and Drew Kirtley is given only a 50-50 chance of playing.

Stokesley SC also travel into Cumbria for their tie at Whitehaven. They take just 14 players and the only absentee is Niall Southall, who is working.