Bishop Auckland might be looking for a new manager later today.

Club officials are scheduled to meet Brian Honour for talks, but Honour has insisted that his resignation, which he announced last Saturday, will stand unless he is given assurances about the future.

Instead, coaches Micky Taylor and Tony Boylan will be in charge of the team at home to Farsley, a game Bishops can't afford to lose.

Taylor said: "It isn't all doom and gloom at the club. There is a very good spirit here, and if we can get it right up front, then we're not far away."

Striker Chris I'Anson is suffering from flu, while midfielder Steve Salvin will have a fitness test. Defender Chris Neil returns after suspension.

l Stokesley SC have been rewarded for winning the North Riding County Cup last season by being chosen to represent North Riding FA in the Inter County Cup competition.

Today, they host Kendal who are representing Westmorland and secretary Peter Grainge is delighted his ambitious club has been given the opportunity.

"It is a big honour and we are really looking forward to the game even though it interferes with our challenge for the league," he said.

Leaders Stokesley have Robbie Donnelly, Jonathan Newton and Tim Hodgkinson lining up but Ian Redpath is a doubt.

Second-top Darlington RA are also on Cup duty, visiting Jarrow in the first round of the Wearside League Cup. They take a squad of 18 and manager David Woodcock's only doubt is Warren Byrne who is struggling with a knee injury.

In the League, third-top Coxhoe Athletic will keep the pressure on the leading pair if they win at Annfield Plain.

Ferryhill Athletic meet fellow strugglers Washington Nissan UK with just one point separating the pair. Ferryhill manager Mark Fanning is unable to call upon Stuart Cottam, Scott Brassell and Kaljit Sander but Joe Barber resumes.

Birtley Town name Tony Thirkell, Rob Wright and Chris Ainsley in their side to meet Harton and Westoe while Wolviston have obtained international clearance for Aussie Tyson Masters who makes his debut at Cleadon SC.

Shotton Comrades are at home to Winscale hoping that Robbie Wardell, Stephen Monaghan and Stephen Bentley can play while Alan Surtees resumes for Ryhope CW at Whitehaven following a six-weeks lay-off.

Sport Catterick go to Stokesley SC Reserves in the North Riding County Cup with Mark Stephenson and Stephen Hunter both involved.