Wearside Laegue: Wolviston, still on the fringe of the race for the championship despite having lost six times, take a break from league action this afternoon when they visit Annfield Plain in the First Round of the Monkwearmouth Charity Cup.

Official Andy Anderson reports that four players who missed last week's game are expected to return. John Patterson, Gareth Murphy, Michael Diccico and recent signing Ian Bishop all come into the plans of manager Graham Howard.

Annfield Plain, who conceded nine goals last Saturday, are also expected to be much stronger. Four players ruled out through injury are likely to resume but an absentee is Aaron Scott, who has joined Crook Town.

New Marske, another of the championship hopefuls, host Barnard Castle and their only non-starter is the injured Paul Graham.

Only one of the two scheduled league cup ties will go ahead since Gateshead Reserves and Washington Nissan UK will fulfil their fixture at the International Stadium on Monday night.

Leaders Stokesley SC meet Ferryhill Athletic at the Sunnydale Leisure Centre. Stokesley are minus Ian Redpath and goalkeeper Ben Escritt. Grant Hine continues to deputise in goal and Jonathan Newton is available.

In the League, Birtley Town will go top if they take a point from their home game with Boldon CA, who have not given up their challenge for pole position.

Boldon miss Mark Harrison and Andrew Whalley but Michael Meek, Mark Williams and Andrew Hunter are all anticipated to line up.

Harton and Westoe visit Cleadon SC at Jack Clark Park with two goalkeepers, Ben Sandell and Neil Smith, both injured so Brett Wilson, signed from South Tyneside Academy, will again deputise following two impressive performances. Russell Bell and Chris Greaves will also be considered by manager Ronnie Thompson.

Darlington RA have Ryhope CW as visitors to Brinkburn Road and hope that Rob Morley will be able to play since Gary Hornsby and Robbie Hawman are still sidelined. In addition, a big doubt surrounds the availability of Andrew Roberts.

North Shields visit Ponteland United in the First Round replay of the Northumberland Senior Cup after the sides finished 2-2 last Saturday. Roy Gordon could return to the midfield for the Robins and Martin Lamb is pencilled in to make his 200th appearance for the club.