Foster's Northumberland and Tyneside League.

Leaders Lanchester welcome back Phil Carlin for a rare appearance in the home game against second-from-bottom Backworth.

Carlin has been unavailable for much of the season and his inclusion will enhance Lanchester's chances of remaining in pole position. Newcastle City are hot on the heels of their rivals and they are pleased to name the same XI which won for the fifth time last week.

They are at home to Sacriston, who will be hoping for more of the same from Harry Hubber.

It was his magnificent all-round performance which had Sacriston celebrating in their previous fixture.

Lintz have moved up into third place after winning their last three games. They miss Stuart Clennell for the visit of Shotley Bridge and Richard Guy is drafted into a line-up which includes brothers Gary and Michael Christie. Shotley Bridge are just a point behind Lintz in what is developing into an extremely tight race for the title. Billy Gibson for Philip Peel is the Bridge's only alteration.

Despite being bottom of the table and the only side yet to taste victory, Ryton are unchanged for the visit of Annfield Plain, who surprisingly are third from the basement.

Tynedale, hoping to close in on the leading pack by winning at Leadgate, name Tim Adcock in place of Gary Cant.

Leadgate anxiously await fitness reports on professional Sean Ackerman and Stuart Graham, who are integral parts of the side. Should they be unable to turn-out Chris Soulsby and Daniel Stewart will deputise.

Ashington are considerably stronger at home to Swalwell with father and son, Stephen and Gregg Williams, Simon Prudhoe and Ross Sample all resuming, but Swalwell might not be so fortunate. Stephen Humble, who has been in outstanding form with the ball, is being troubled with a strain to his side and may not be able to bowl, but he definitely plays and will bat.

Jimmy Smith, meanwhile, is doubtful through injury and with Nigel Bates unavailable Roy Gray has been promoted from the Seconds.

Whickham will stay top of Division Two regardless of the outcome of their game at Blyth. Second-placed Consett, at home to Seaton Burn, have Kevin Hopps, John Walker and David Wilkinson taking over from Gordon Hunter, Craig Nichols and John Chapman.