NEWLY-INSTALLED leaders Castle Eden defend a single-point advantage when they line up against bottom-of-the-table Houghton - the only side yet to win.

The leaders, though, cannot call upon Gerard Magee as they attempt to see off the challenge from nearest rivals Hilton and Murton, who are just two points adrift in third place.

Although Houghton have produced some encouraging performances they are just 18 points behind Seaham Park at the basement and desperately need a win. Their chances of causing an upset are enhanced with the inclusion of Craig Dowell and Andrew Beston, the pair replacing Carl White and Keith Rewcastle, who are named in the second XI.

Hylton visit fourth-top Silksworth defending the only unbeaten record in the league. Their hosts have lost just once and a close result is anticipated.

Hylton have the hard-hitting Gary Hewitt coming back, who on his day can quickly change the course of a match. Silksworth promote Paul Harrison since Vivian Kharia cannot play.

Murton are just two points off the top in what is developing into a close title race.

At home to improving Peterlee they are again unable to call upon Ian King and a further blow would be the unavailability of the evergreen Keith Chapman, who has taken well over 1,000 wickets for the club. Following an indifferent start, last season's runners-up Peterlee are gradually moving up the table and they hope to be at full strength.

Their only concern surrounds Neil Johnson. Next Thursday, the club will host the Peterlee and District Primary School Cricket Festival, organised by Durham Cricket Board.

Ryhope, who pre-season were expected to be contenders for honours, have slipped back to sixth place ahead of their home game with Seaham Park. David Hauxwell resumes and his inclusion will bolster the home side's run-making capability.

He comes in for Dan Pearson, but Seaham Park need to make several changes.

Going out are David Moorhead, James Taylor, Andrew Worthy and Michael McNitless, but experienced pair Alan Dick and Michael Evans can turn out. Dawdon, with just one win so far, host Bill Quay with Keith Laws available. But Cavan McNicholas is sidelined and David Coates will need a late fitness test. Bill Quay are more fortunate and their only alteration sees the return of David Brown.

Boldon CA are fourth from the basement.

At home to Easington they bring in David Jones and Kit Allen for Tony Milton and Gary Frater.

With Mark Race unable to play, Easington's only alteration is the inclusion of Chris Naylor.