Crook looking to maintain 100 per cent record

Crook have won three out of three so far – their latest by 4-0 at Washington in midweek -- to put them fourth in the table, level with today’s opponents, and a point behind joint leaders West Allotment and Redcar Athletic.

Manager Jamie Tunstall said; “Ryton have started the season well and will pose a different test to the sides we’ve faced so far. But the boys are full of confidence at the moment and it’s a game we have to try and take something from.”

Daniel Kent and Jonny Hope are both injured, but they include new signing Dom Joynes from Billingham Synthonia.

In the first division, Bishop Auckland are hoping to recover from a bad week when they take on Stockton Town at Heritage Park.

They were knocked out of the FA Cup by Thornaby last Saturday and then they lost at Whitley Bay on Tuesday night, and manager Ian Chandler said; “Things need to improve and quickly.

“I don't think it would matter who we are playing at the moment, every game is a tough task with all these players missing.”

However, his options are limited as Kyle Fryatt, Aidan Hart, Ryan Robinson, Bailey Prudhoe, Gideon Kanyondo, Darren Richardson, Jamie Marshall and James Fairley are all missing for one reason or another.

West Auckland are at home to North Shields and looking for their first win in five league and cup matches.

Manager Gary Forrest expects to have a full squad to choose from, and said; “Things haven’t been going for us, but having said that, we need to be better in both final thirds.”

Northallerton go to Seaham Red Star looking for their first league win, although they won at Newton Aycliffe last Saturday in the FA Cup.

Midfielder Andrew Shepherd is doubtful and will have a late fitness test, but another midfielder Andy Ramsbottom, is unavailable.

Manager Darren Trotter said; “We have been unlucky to lose our last two league games by the same score 1-0 and have learned that the First Division is a step up in class. We will be looking to put some points on the board sooner rather than later.”

In the other second division matches, Tow Law, who have won two and lost two so far, are at Brandon. Lawyers had a good 3-0 home victory over Esh Winning in midweek, but manager Micky Vasey will be forced into changes as several players are unavailable. “It’s another hard game, and another local derby also,” said Vasey.

Brandon, who have lost all three games so far, are without striker Lewis Martin because of injury, while Mattie Lovegreen will have a fitness test. Jack Bromley and Sean Tarling both return to the squad.

Manager Rob Bowron said; “Tow Law are going to be a difficult ask, because they are strong, physical and able to play. But we will just have a good go.”

Willington, who lost their 100 per cent record in midweek when they were beaten at Redcar Athletic, are at joint leaders West Allotment. Defender Jack Cooper and striker Ash Davis are both missing.

Chester-le-Street go to Easington, having lost their last two matches after winning their first two. Conor Lyons and Michael Graver are both injured, while Dominic Laws has returned to the USA with his scholarship.

Manager Colin Wake said; “After two disappointing results, all we are looking for is a better performance.”

Esh Winning hope to recover from their midweek defeat against Tow Law by winning at newcomers Sunderland West End.

Manager Tony Boakes will be missing several players, including recent signing Barrie Smith, while there will be fitness tests for Callum Boakes and Matthew Allison. Both sides have yet to win a league game this season.

Durham City, who were with eight minutes of beating Easington in midweek when the lights failed at Hall Lane, are at home to Billingham Synthonia, and manager Billy Harper will probably choose an unchanged side.

“We go into the game with confidence after our best performance so far against Easington. If we play like we did in midweek, then I fancy our chances for three points.”

Synners recently changed their manager, with Dave Dickson taking over from Jamie Pollock.