Darlington Building Society NYSD League

It is a long time since Darlington RA went five games unbeaten at the start of a season and captain David Eckels is confident they can make it six out of six today.

"To say that I am happy with the way we have begun is an under-statement," exclaimed Eckels.

"We are sixth from top, rubbing noses with the best and if we can come through unscathed against Guisborough at Fountains Garth this afternoon, the side will be absolutely delighted."

He enthused: "The atmosphere is tremendous and although it is always tough playing Guisborough, they are not invincible as Blackhall proved a couple of weeks ago. We are certainly up for it and we are definitely looking to take something from the match.

"Guisborough are just a couple of points better off than us and we would certainly make a few people sit up and take notice if we are above them by tonight.

"Unfortunately, Paul Freary is unable to play, but Stephen Bell is a worthy replacement," reported Eckels.

Guisborough, who tomorrow are at home to York in the ECB National Knockout Cup (1pm), make their first change of the season today.

A big blow is the unavailability of Graham Shaw, who last season scored 992 runs averaging 62 helping Guisborough to a second successive championship. He is replaced by Richard Dove.

"When you have won the league two years running everybody wants to beat you," said vice captain Gary Bolton.

"Although we lost to Blackhall, we have made a reasonably good start considering the affect the weather has had on our games. RA are no doubt encouraged at their success so we will have to be on our mettle."

The League Management Committee has ruled that Guisborough's game at Saltburn which was controversially abandoned when the umpires considered the pitch to be dangerous, will stand as a draw.

Darlington, who only missed out on the championship by a whisker last season, are unbeaten ahead of their game with Normanby Hall at Feethams.

"We are only 13 points adrift of leaders Redcar and are very pleased with the way things are going. The same team which turned out last week will be on duty today and we have given 17-year old David Alderson another opportunity. He is an excellent prospect," claimed cricket co-ordinator John Edwardson.

Redcar host Hartlepool pleased to have the same XI available as they attempt to consolidate pole position.

With three victories, they have won more games than any other side and along with Darlington RA, Saltburn and Darlington, are unbeaten.

Hartlepool name Jarrad Rowsthorn, an early-order batsman and spinner, to take over from Kevin Peake as they attempt to improve their position in the bottom half of the table.

Bishop Auckland's new professional Amul Mazundar, who made a delayed start because of commitments in India, is included in a strong line-up at Thornaby, but Hiran Marambe is still at University and will not play until next month.

Marske, the most successful side in the league during the second half of last season, have managed just one win so far, but games have been badly affected by the weather.

They go to Middlesbrough, surprisingly bottom of the table and keep the same side which was on duty in last week's abandoned match with Normanby Hall. Boro show one change with Ross Whatmore coming in for Richie Borwell.

Despite having beaten Guisborough, Blackhall are third from the basement and at home to Northallerton, bring in Ricky Darwin for Graham Bell.

Saltburn have two wins and three draws in five attempts and for the visit to Richmondshire, include the Rashid brothers Umer and Mauhtashim.