Leaders Evenwood have an early opportunity to avenge the heavy defeat inflicted by Crook Town in the semi final of the League Cup on Wednesday night when the sides are again in action this afternoon.

Andy Coe was Crook's matchwinner when he crashed seven sixes in a whirlwind innings of 49 not out which changed the character of his team's innings.

If he repeats his form today, Evenwood could be in trouble but the leaders have proved in the past that they have the ability to quickly hit back.

Their only change is the inclusion of Craig Rutherford for John Maughan but Crook make a couple of alterations. David Hutchinson and Graham Richardson take over from Darren Brown and Michael Dunn.

Kimblesworth, quietly confident that they can retain the title, host third-from-top Esh Winning and their only absentee is Nigel Darling. Esh are strengthened by the return of Stephen Dunn and John Bate makes way.

Tudhoe host Langley Park minus Stephen Thompson and Stephen Maddison but Stuart Hood, who works in Scotland, is home for the weekend and he is included with returning Phil Wood.

Brandon are looking to finish in the top four which chairman Ian Johnson claims would be further proof of the club's improvement since their entry into the league.

Captain Steve Dunsford is likely to be missing for some time after recently undergoing an operation to his ankle and Dean Storey will lead the side against Mainsforth.

Johnnie Moore will play his first game of the season and with Campbell Robertson in splendid form, Mainsforth will need to give a good account if they're to profit.

Sedgefield are at full strength visiting Willington but it could be the last occasion they can call upon stalwart Ian Bell.

Etherley take on bottom-of-the-table Shildon minus Danny Hinge, Sean Rudd and Michael Crane. The trio are replaced by the Dunning brothers, Andrew and Michael, and Stephen Crane. Shildon are without Philip Dunn.