Foster's Northumberland and Tyneside Senior League: It is extremely tight at the top with just one point separating newly-installed leaders Newcastle City from Lanchester, who led the table for most of the season until last weekend.

Tynedale, who inflicted a first defeat on Lanchester last Saturday, are waiting in the wings just 15 points off the top.

Newcastle City are able to field their first-choice line-up at Shotley Bridge, where they will come up against Phil Taylor, who has joined The Spa club from Gateshead Fell.

He will open the batting and takes over from Billy Gibson. Lanchester aim to return to winning form immediately by defeating full-strength Annfield Plain.

The title contenders are boosted by the return from injury of Andrew Donnelly and although both Tony Halliday and Richie Strong are doubtful, it is anticipated that they will be able to turn out.

Tynedale have home advantage over Ashington, who are one place below them in the table.

All-rounder Henry Twizell resumes for the Hexham Club, taking the place of Graeme Fox.

Another victory could propel Tynedale further up the table, but they will not find it easy against Ashington, who hope that David Rutherford will be able to bowl. In any case, he will play and bat and if he is unable to join the attack, Mark Hetherington will be utilised. Sacriston are still minus Harry Hubber, who has two centuries to his credit this year. Also missing for the home game with Ryton is Andrew Mavin and Glen Shaw joins his brother Lee in the line-up. Ryton, joint bottom with Backworth, badly need a win if they are to escape relegation.

Backworth too require maximum points from their game with Leadgate since this season two sides will be relegated.