Following five successive victories which propelled them to the top of the table, Lintz came down to earth with a bump last week when they lost to third-from-bottom Ryton.

But they bounced back to form against Shotley Bridge in the semi final of the league cup on Wednesday night even after a batting collapse.

A blow to their chances of Lintz is the unavailability of all-rounder Stuart Clennell and a doubt also surrounds the fitness of Trevor Wilson but it is expected he will play.

Shotley Bridge, who made an inauspicious start, have hit form in recent weeks and last Saturday's victory at Consett moved them into second position. They are 28 points behind Lintz and need maximum points if they are to seriously challenge for the title.

Swalwell aim to make it five consecutive victories at home to Lanchester but Nigel Bates, Peter Cromarty and Andrew Hughes are all missing. Tony Todd has returned from holiday and Luke Glaister and Stuart Taylor are promoted from the Second XI.

Lanchester have Kevin Dixon leading the side for the remainder of the season. Today he has Phil Carlin and Stuart McPhail returning to his side.

Tynedale have managed just one win in their last five outings and are now fourth from bottom. With three teams to be relegated, they need to see off basement side Consett but will have to do so without Steve Lishman.

Sacriston still miss Paul Burn for their home match with buoyant Ryton but John Alderson resumes in place of Andrew Dixon.

Donald Brown is injured and wicket keeper Kevin Curtis is away so Stephen Newstead will don the gloves for Annfield Plain at Benwell and Walbottle where Richie Strong also lines up.

Ashington have a home fixture with Burnopfield who are at full strength.