Durham Coast League: Murton's fortunes in the last couple of weeks have improved considerably and they now enjoy a 26-point lead over Silksworth.

Yet only a fortnight ago just one point separated the pair and they have jockeyed for pole position all season.

But Murton have had luck on their side with the weather and after defeating Castle Eden, they saw off the challenge from Seaham Park last Saturday.

Silksworth, meanwhile, were held to a frustrating draw by Boldon CA and then had last Saturday's match at Houghton washed out without a ball being bowled.

"Fortunately for us, Seaham Park wanted to play last week and following a long delay both teams made a game of it and we came out on top. The ball is now in our own court, but there are still eight matches and 160 points up for grabs," said secretary Herbert King.

Today Murton are at home to Boldon CA and show one alteration with Howard Ramshaw taking over for the unavailable Ian King.

Silksworth have home advantage over Easington and will field their strongest line-up hoping to eat into Murton's sizeable advantage.

Dawdon, enjoying their best season for several years, are third ahead of the visit from Houghton, who along with Seaham Park and Peterlee, have yet to taste success.

Jamie Greenwood and Tav Shah are ruled out so Dawdon bring in Karl Scott and Stephen Cahill.

Although Houghton continue to show improvement under the guidance of skipper Ian Hauxwell, they are second from the basement and are minus three players. Gary Robinson, David Hauxwell and Martin Cowie miss out and Ian Johnson and Gavin Keen will fill two of the vacancies.

Castle Eden hand a debut to the former Hartlepool opening batsman Steve Horsley at Hylton. "Steve has been living in the village for some time but it is only now that he is able to play and we are delighted to have him on board," enthused secretary Leo Taylor.

Hylton have a doubt surrounding the fitness of Liam Foster, who was injured in a cup tie on Monday night, but otherwise they will be at their strongest.

Ryhope, who have successfully promoted a youth policy, could have young twins Amar and Arjun Purewal in their side for the visit of Seaham Park.

Chris Errington will definitely play, but his brother John is doubtful after sustaining a hairline fracture of a finger.

Ryhope clinched the junior league title with victory at Houghton on Tuesday night.

Bill Quay bring in Chris Little for Paul Bentham at home to Peterlee who line up Michael Briggs and Andrew Murray for unavailable pair Michael Garrigan and Kirk Winter.