Wearside League: After suffering only their second defeat of the season last Saturday, Stokesley SC face another difficult task this afternoon at home to fourth placed Jarrow.

The Teessiders though will be considerably stronger with the return of a quarter of players. Youngsters Richard Mills and Harris Davies who were on duty with North Riding Youths last week both resume along with David Grainge and Craig Johnson.

Darlington RA, just a point off the top with two games in hand on Stokesley, line up against Whitehaven at Brinkburn Road delighted that Martin Brown will be able to play for the first time since August. "He broke his nose against new Marske after playing in our first four matches.

"Martin is an important member of the squad and will certainly give us a boost," declared manager Dave Woodcock who reports that both James Chapman and Mark Hebden are missing.

Coxhoe Athletic who have impressed during their first season in the league, visit third from bottom Ferryhill Athletic minus no fewer than four players.

Andrew Richardson and Gary Turton are suspended, while Kevin Bush and Peter Croft are struggling with injuries.

In contrast, Ferryhill are considerably strengthened with the inclusion of Gavin Bage, Chris Donald and Martin Hedley although Jeremy Norris cannot play.

Wolviston visit Shotton Comrades and will give a second game to Craig Luke who impressed on his debut last Saturday. Scott Lawson is also named but John Patterson and Dean Moore are unavailable.

For their game with Gateshead Reserves at the International Stadium New Marske miss Steve Hodgson but line up Lee Magor, while Boldon CA have Mark Williams and Mark Watson back against Ryhope CW.

Manager Norman Hunter is pleased to have Keith Mason on call and is confident that Gary Rogers will also play.

Sport Catterick line up Craig Culyer but Dan Chilton is an absentee against full strength Annfield Plain.