Bishop Auckland manager Brian Honour believes that his side is on the verge of better things as they head for Radcliffe Borough this afternoon.

Bishops have won just once in the league this season, but Honour said: "I think we're only a striker away from being a very good team.

"We've done well in some matches this season, but we've needed a goalscorer to put our chances away.

"I've been trying to get a forward for ages but I keep hitting a brick wall."

But Honour had success last night when he signed promising Hartlepool United forward Jack Wilkinson.

The teenager is recovering from a summer knee operation and a stint in the UniBond League will be of benefit. Last season he made a big impact, scoring two goals in four appearances.

Honour will be without midfielder Kevin Dixon and striker Neil Maddison for at least a month because of injuries.

Spennymoor include another new signing, full back Kevin Bruce, from Washington Nissan, in their squad at home to Hyde United.

Bruce joins his former Nissan team-mate Johnny Butler at the club, and he could start with former Gateshead midfielder Dave Coulson as Richard Foster, Steve Hutt, Jon Cullen and David Colin are all missing.

Manager Tony Lee said: "I'm looking for a good response from the players after our midweek cup defeat."

Whitby caretaker boss Dave Logan can do his chances of getting the job on a permanent basis a power of good if they beat Matlock at the Turnbull Ground. Whitby have won four of their last five matches.

Managerless Blyth, with Graeme Fenton in temporary charge, are at Wakefield-Emley.

New Marske aim to extend their three-match unbeaten sequence when they host Whitehaven this afternoon.

Following an indifferent start to the season, the Seasiders have won two and drawn one of their last three matches and sights are set on a top-four position.

Stokesley SC, with a one-point lead over Darlington RA at the top, meet Cleadon SC at Jack Clark Park with Matthew Homan and Jonathan Newton both sidelined although Robbie Donnelly resumes.

Darlington RA, who have conceded fewer goals than any other side, visit Harton and Westoe with Warren Burn in consideration for a return. Stephen Bell also comes into the plans of manager Dave Woodcock.

Sport Catterick are at home to Boldon CA and secretary David Dew reports that a young side will be on duty. "We had to make eight changes for last week's game at Harton and Westoe and lost to a fluke goal scored by their goalkeeper. It was an encouraging performance,'' he said.

Washington Nissan UK conceded nine last Saturday and at Shotton Comrades have Ian Dodds and Gary Fenwick available.

Ferryhill Athletic leaked nine in their last outing but manager Mark Fanning will have a stronger squad available for the home game with Ryhope CW. Coxhoe Athletic have home advantage over Cleator Moor Celtic.