Foster's Northumberland and Tyneside League: In-form Annfield Plain aim to continue their rise up the table when they meet Shotley Bridge at The Spa today.

The home side include father and son Don and Philip Brown, who played at the Plain last season.

"Their inclusion should make it interesting," said captain Steve Newstead.

"Both are very good players, but we are in splendid form after completing a scintillating double over Sacriston last weekend, when openers Bruce Armstrong and Aldo Van Den Berg were among the runs.

"It will not be easy at The Spa, though, even though we are able to field our strongest line-up.

"Although we have done very well in cup competitions, our league form has been a little erratic although recently we have put together a little successful run."

Shotley Bridge, now fifth from top and within striking distance of second position, are unchanged from the side which secured a big win last weekend.

Leaders Lanchester name their strongest line-up at Lintz, who dropped back a place to fourth following their defeat at Tynedale.

Lintz cannot call upon Gary Christie as they seek to rekindle their championship aspirations.

Newcastle City, second from top, are at home to bottom-of-the-table Backworth confident that they can take maximum points to keep the pressure on the leaders.

Ashington are unchanged for the visit of Leadgate, while Tynedale go to second-from-bottom Ryton with Neil Clark coming in for Graham Riccalton. The home team name Jason Scott but the former Durham County player Steve Lugsden cannot play.

An interesting game is in prospect at Sacriston, who host Swalwell.

Despite losing twice last weekend, Sacriston keep faith in the same XI and so too do Swalwell.

In Division A, leaders Whickham will be hoping for more of the same from professional Michael Brundle. They go to Greenside with Chris Goldsmith, Andy May and Chris Davidson taking over from Kevin Curtis, Darren Stillwell and Neil Eyes.

Greenside, with two wins, are pushing for a mid-table placing and they are pleased that Delroy Taylor and David Smith can come in for Wallis and Scott.

Consett, for their visit to Alnwick, bring in the experienced Gordon Hunter, who will play in the same side as his son Gary.