Mainsforth are hoping that their first league cup final appearance in over four decades can give their league season a lift.

Mainsforth defeated Etherley in midweek to reach the league cup final for the first time since the 50's, and now they are hoping that they can give their midtable position a boost against Evenwood today.

Secretary John Irvine said: "Everybody at the club is delighted, because it's always been the club's ambition to reach the league cup final."

Mainsforth, who will play league leaders Leadgate in the final next week, give Stephen Bell his return debut after coming back to the club following a spell at Colburn. Evenwood will be at full strength.

Shildon Railway have been given a boost by the news that all rounder Rob Timmens hasn't broken his finger as first feared, and he will return to the side at home to Crook today. Jim Middleton also comes back into the team, but Chris Lye is missing.

Crook, who need to win to keep the pressure on the leaders are without Darren Brown and Ian Greener, so David Snow and Scott Brown come in.

Second placed Ushaw Moor are boosted by the return of Ian Ross at home to Tudhoe, who are without skipper Kevin Littlefair.

Leaders Leadgate can consolidate their position at home to second bottom Willington, but they are without Paul Hutchinson, so Paul Hockaday replaces him.

Bottom of the table Brandon are without batsman Michael Cannon at home to Etherley, but Tony Keogan returns.

Etherley are without all rounder David Young because of a back injury.

Sedgefield, who also play Evenwood in a re-arranged game tomorrow, welcome back Phil Heslop and David Iceton at home to Esh Winning, who add batsman Ian Dixon to their side.

Langley Park and Kimblesworth both expect to be at full strength for their game.