Durham Coast League

Murton, who share the leadership with Hylton, face their most difficult game to date when they host rejuvenated Ryhope.

The Wearsiders, once one of the strongest clubs in the North-East, are determined to return to the glory days and made some important signings during the close season.

"We now have a team which combines experience and youth. We have always believed in promoting young players but they need to have one or two old heads around them and we now feel we have the balance right," said Ryhope official Mattie Summerside.

Ryhope have won two and drawn one and are only nine points adrift of Murton who boast a 100 per cent record.

Ryhope miss professional Paul Watson but Graham Anderson, John Leslie, Graeme Smith and Bobby Scott are all included as are teenagers David Miller and Paul Howe. Murton show just one change with Jonathan Seed taking over from Michael Walton.

Hylton are at home to Castle Eden boosted by the return of David Batty who will open the attack with Sean Gleeson. He bowled particularly well, taking six wickets last week.

The visitors have also made a good start and are strengthened with the inclusion of David Garrighan and John Hart for Mattie Tudball and Steve Williams.

At the other end of the table, Houghton visit Dawdon with Lee Husband and Paul Elliott replacing Ian Johnson and under-15 player Ryan Furnival, who are both named in the Second XI. Michael Watson for Anthony Gale is Dawdon's only alteration.

Seaham Park's chances of winning for the first time are enhanced for their fixture at Bill Quay. Former Ryhope professional, all-rounder Alan Dick is expected to turn out and left-arm spinner Michael McGinn is also pencilled in. Although a doubt surrounds the fitness of John Witton, he is likely to play.

Bill Quay name David Brown and Paul Bentham for Craig Smith and David Orridge as they aim to make an early impact.

Easington have Paul Elliott, Colin Craggs and Paul Neasham all lining up at Peterlee who are at last able to field their first-choice side. Runners-up last year, Peterlee have lost twice and are still without a win.

Silksworth keep faith with the same XI for their home fixture with Boldon CA who have John Moffatt and Neil Crooks lining up.