Durham City manager Billy Cruddas has admitted that the loss of central defender Dickie Ord is a massive blow ahead of their FA Vase third round tie with Gedling today.

The former Sunderland player announced his retirement from competitive football during the week because of a knee injury, and Cruddas admits that he will be a big miss.

"Dickie has made the decision for the sake of his own health," said Cruddas.

"After we played Dunston last week, his knee collapsed. He's already had six operations on it, and he was advised just to have three.

"It's a massive blow to us, because people like Dickie don't come along very often. He was an inspirational player."

Michael Canavan, who deputised for Ord last week, stays in defence alongside Paul Stephenson who returns after injury.

The biggest tie in the North-East is at Dunston, who take on the holders Whitley Bay.

Strikers Ben Thompson and Darren Sankey both return for Dunston, whose assistant manager Perry Briggs says: "Everybody is really fired up for this one."

Dunston's central defender Steve Holmes is out with a knee injury, but Whitley expect to be at full strength.

Billingham Town go into the unknown to face Midlands Alliance side Grosvenor Park.

Town manager Allan Robinson has failed to find out about the opposition. He went to watch them last week but the match was postponed. Defender Stuart Jackson misses the game because of a broken arm.

Northallerton are aiming to make the most of their big day against Shirebrook, and will prepare by going for a lunchtime meal. Defender Micky Dale returns after injury, while Andy Thompson is included in the squad for the first time this season.

Manager Peter Mulcaster said: "The club has never been this far in the Vase, and we aim to enjoy it."

Guisborough have a tough game at home to Mossley.

Central defender Micky Waller is suspended and Steve McLean is missing, but former Darlington player Mark Sunley could return to the side after a rib injury.

l In the Wearside League rejuvenated Darlington RA meet leaders Stokesley SC in the match of the day and victory could propel them into third place, which would be their highest rating of the season, writes MALCOLM PRATT.

"We have played really well in the last few weeks and are now only five points behind Stokesley. It will be a difficult match but with a full squad of 15 players to choose from, I am confident we can give them a good game," said manager David Woodcock.

Stokesley SC have Neil Southall available following work commitments last weekend.

Annfield Plain play second bottom Ferryhill Athletic, but they will be without Gary Clarke and Gareth Slavin who are injured.

Cleadon SC, who have shown considerable improvement recently, travel to Barnard Castle Glaxo minus Chris Bailey who will not play again until the New Year.

Included is Andrew Quinn, who celebrates his 18th birthday today.

Ryhope CW, who had a free day last Saturday, host Harton and Westoe. The visitors welcome the Lee Compton back and hope to make a significant signing in the next few days.

Stanley United play title hopefuls Boldon CA at Hill Top. Jon Charles Gott hopes to play, but Chris Burn is again sidelined and Michael Dixon is doubtful through work, but Keith Burn returns.

In the Sunderland Shipowners' Cup a close result is anticipated between Wolviston and New Marske.

Redcar Town are at home to Birtley Town in the same competition. Recent signings Nicky Harris and Mark Hyndman will play for Redcar and Birtley have Paul Bryson and Bobby Cooper resuming.