There is everything to play for so far, as eight clubs head into June with a realistic chance of being crowned champions come September.

A combination of unhelpful weather and surprise results have ensured no team has managed to impose itself and establish any kind of rhythm.

The double programme this weekend may be the time that a clearer pattern emerges.

Boldon CA lie in fourth position, nine points off the lead but with a vital game in hand over the three teams above.

They have a real opportunity to put down their marker as they first have a home fixture with the current leaders Bill Quay and then travel to play second placed Seaham Park tomorrow.

Boldon are boosted by the return of professional Tommy Nixon from injury and also have Lee Jackson in for both games. But they will certainly miss holidaying skipper Gary Critchley upon whom so much usually rests at the top of the order.

Bill Quay have enforced changes in their line up with Jeff Tudor on holiday and Nathan Drewery working tomorrow - Graham Hudson and David Collier deputise.

Their second match is at Murton, so they couldn't have a tougher double test of their credentials. Seaham Park go to Ryhope prior to the Boldon match and will be at full strength for both games save for Alan Dick who misses both days through work - a big loss.

Castle Eden are nicely poised in third place knowing a good weekend could see them take over at the top with the other leading teams playing each other.

They go to Easington today knowing they will provide testing opposition, and then have what, on paper, should be the formality of a home match with bottom club Peterlee tomorrow. Castle Eden go into both games at full strength, while Easington have Peter Booth making his seasonal debut. Their second match is at Ryhope who delay selection.

Dawdon, in fifth, take on mid-table Murton and have the luxury of a settled side, while their visitors have Ian King returning as they try and build on last week's welcome victory. Silksworth travel to Washington this afternoon and then tackle Dawdon tomorrow.

Peterlee have a vacant day today and the team just above them, Washington, take their turn to sit proceedings out tomorrow meaning it unlikely either will be able to do anything about their parlous positions.