Murton, who toppled leaders Silksworth last week and moved into pole position, enjoy the luxury of having to make only one change for their visit to Castle Eden this afternoon.

This is their fifth fixture and they have been able to field their strongest side for every game but today Phil Grimwood is unavailable and his place is taken by Dave Scorer.

Castle Eden have not been in such a happy position but they are strengthened with the return of three players. John Bradley, Sam Cowie and David Spellman all resume to the exclusion of Christopher Tudball, Danny Bell and Anthony Hart.

Following their damaging defeat last week, Silksworth need to regroup visiting Houghton and their chances are enhanced as early-order batsmen Graeme Weeks and David Tate can play.

The pair usually provide a fair proportion of the runs and were sadly missed against Murton. Stephen Lobban and Anthony Bell make way.

A blow for Hylton is the unavailability of all-rounder David Batty for the visit of Ryhope. The talented youngster missed several games at the end of last season and his absence is sure to be felt. Hylton continue their policy of promoting youngsters and 15-year-old Christopher Allen is given his chance after scoring a couple of half centuries.

Dawdon name the same XI for their difficult fixture with rejuvenated Peterlee who are expected to be strong candidates for the championship after making their best start to a season in three decades. Graeme Pearce for John Paul is Peterlee's only alteration.

Bottom-of-the-table Seaham Park field their strongest available side at home to Bill Quay who have Paul Bentham coming in for David Hunt while Easington will be without professional David Kennedy for at least a month because of a leg injury.

Kennedy is one of the most reliable all-rounders in the League and his absence will be felt against Boldon CA who are content to rely on the players who have taken them into sixth position.