Darlington RA will be without Paul Freary and Martin Brown when they attempt to close in on leaders Stokesley SC this afternoon but secretary Martyn Jackson reports that Michael Carter and Andrew Singlewood come into the plans of manager Dave Woodcock.

"It could be a case of two in, two out at Boldon CA," said Jackson who was delighted with the form of hat-trick debutant Warren Burn last Saturday.

Boldon boss Norman Hunter has Andrew Whalley suspended and Keith Mason is working but Paul Oley and John Taylor resume.

Stokesley SC, who have a narrow three-point lead over Darlington RA, host Harton and Westoe unable to call upon three players. David Grainge is playing cricket, Mattie Homan suspended and Robert Donnelly is also ruled out. In addition, Jonathan Newton will have a late check on his fitness.

Coxhoe Athletic are third ahead of the trip to Whitehaven.

"We are looking forward to a new experience and hoping to keep on the tails of the two leading sides," said manager Gary Forrest. Rob Bowman, Ralph Pettijean and Dean Smithson are all ruled out.

Birtley Town visit Sport Catterick with the only unbeaten record although they have played three games fewer than some sides. The only absentee from the squad is the injured Anthony Lynch.

Sport Catterick David Dew is uncertain about the composition of his side which has won twice in four outings since entering the league.

New Marske are at home to Ryhope CW and five players are back in the line-up.Richard Booth, Simon Welch, Tim Hood, Craig Mendum and Neil Holdsworth return to a near full-strength squad.

Ferryhill Athletic host Jarrow in the Monkwearmouth Charity Cup with Kaljid Sander, Drew Kirtley and Stephen Salisbury all resuming while the visitors cannot call on Phil Dolphin or Andrew Barclay.

Wolviston go to Cleator Moor Celtic hoping to make it four wins on the trot. Their squad has been strengthened with the signing of midfielder Dean Moore from Marske United and striker Liam Preston from Billingham Town.