Bishop Auckland manager Brian Honour is struggling to raise a full squad for Bishops' tie at Birtley in the Durham Challenge Cup.

Honour could be missing as many as seven regulars for the trip to the Wearside League club.

He is definitely without four players because they have played for other clubs in the competition's earlier rounds. Liam Smith, Paul Moss, Stuart Irvine and Chris Hughes are all sidelined, while Shaun Hope, Craig Lake and Brian Rowe are all struggling with injuries.

Birtley have already caused one surprise in the competition, beating Hartlepool Reserves.

Billingham Synthonia are also in Durham Challenge Cup action, at Wearside League Boldon CA.

Leading scorer Tony Woods is struggling with an ankle injury, while Tommy Marron and Dean McGee are both injured, and striker Lee Flannagan is cuptied.

Spennymoor are looking for their fifth successive win at Leek Town today with new signing Stuart Brightwell in the side.

Moors' season scaled new heights when they defeated Sunderland Reserves in the Durham Challenge Cup on Wednesday, and manager Tony Lee is almost certain to give former Hartlepool player Brightwell his debut.

"Stuart will add a little bit extra to the team," said Lee.

Michael Robson is suspended, and Mark Taylor is injured.

In the Premier Division, Blyth's new manager Paul Baker takes charge for the first time when they travel to Burscough. Whitby, who are at home to Gateshead, are without Alex Gildea, Craig Veart and Andy Wright.