THE match of the day is between Esh Winning and Crook Town and with little to choose between the sides, the outcome is crucial to their title hopes.

"It's a big weekend for the League. We are third and play fourth-placed Crook Town while leaders Evenwood go to Langley Park and second top Kimblesworth host Etherley," said Esh secretary Joe Lawlor.

A blow to Esh Winning is the unavailability of captain Ian Dixon whose place in the side is filled by John Bate. Crook, who have moved up the table on the back of some good performances in recent weeks, are unchanged.

Evenwood, who lost to Crook last weekend, are considerably strengthened by the return from injury of John Maughan. There is no doubt he has been missed and his inclusion will give the attack an added dimension.

Unfortunately, John Dawson picked up an injury in a midweek cup tie and is unable to play. Langley Park miss former captain Keith Smith and Michael White is drafted into Stephen Gray's line-up.

Kimblesworth, who were defeated by Esh Winning last Saturday, keep faith with the same side for their home match with Etherley who show a number of changes.

They are strengthened by the return of Danny Hinge, Andy Raine and Michael Crane who come in for Michael Dunning, Stephen Crane and Andrew Dunning.

Shildon, without a win and well adrift at the bottom of the table, cannot call upon Phil Rowley for the visit of Willington so Phil Dunn is included in the side. Willington are back to full strength now that Steve Murray has recovered from a broken finger and Paul Clark is able to turn out.

Ushaw Moor make several alterations to their line-up visiting Mainsforth. Stephen Hancock, Brendan Jackson and Ian Ross definitely resume and it is hoped that Mark Burnham will have recovered sufficiently from an ankle injury to take his place in the team. Barry Messer, Jeff Ayre and Craig Wilson stand aside.

Sedgefield, second from bottom, host Brandon with both clubs retaining the sides who played last weekend. Sedgefield will hope to do better after being bowled out for just 46 and Brandon also lost despite a good contribution with the bat by Peter Crossling.