Ferryhill Athletic manager Mark Fanning is convinced his side will avoid the Wearside League wooden spoon even though they are equal on points at the bottom of the table with Washington Nissan UK.

"I thought we played well and were unlucky to lose to Gateshead Reserves in midweek. If we repeat that form against New Marske, we could get a result," declared Fanning

He will have a much changed side on duty, however, and although Lee Jewitt, Stuart Illingworth and Stewart Cottam return from injury, four players are sidelined.

Graeme Kine, Paul Robson, Andrew Boyes and Drew Kirtley miss out but Fanning is hopeful that Ryan Stonehouse and Ian Fowler will be available.

New Marske, who gained a welcome victory on Wednesday, have a full squad to choose from with the exception of Darren Mitchell.

At the top, Birtley Town meet third-placed Cleadon SC unable to consider Carl Pennington and Michael Ford. The visitors miss suspended Mark Johnson.

North Shields have the destination of the title in their own hands. They are just four points adrift of Birtley Town with the same number of games in hand.

They visit Ryhope CW and Andy Stokes is able to turn out. Skipper David Little and Michael Kelly will undergo late fitness checks.

Ryhope CW have enjoyed their best season for some time and they welcome the return of James Smith after duty with Durham County Youths. George Marley, Liam Routledge and Brian Smiles come into contention.

Stokesley SC, who have a mountain to climb if they are to clinch the title, must take full points from their home game with Whitehaven.

Wolviston will make several changes for their game at Harton and Westoe.