Teesside Athletic make their debut this afternoon and could hardly face a stiffer test at Stokesley SC who are expected to be strong title candidates, writes Malcolm Pratt.

Steve Watson is their new manager and Glen Shepherd coach and the pair have brought several players with them from New Marske. A boost is the availability of Ian Johnson and Steve Hodgson who have both had Wearside League experience.

Willington, relegated from the Arngrove Northern League, have Mark Fanning as manager. He spent three years at Ferryhill Athletic and persuaded a number of players to move with him. Only three of last season's squad, Chris Sawyer, Mark Brischuk and James Seymour remain for the opener with Wolviston.

Martin Clennett and Richie Watson are the new management team at Wolviston. Eight of last season's squad remain but the pair have been strengthened the squad.

Birtley Town hand a debut to Stephen Hamil, signed from North Shields, when they open their programme at Annfield Plain. Cleadon SC visit Boldon CA with Les Gamble, Michael Weightman and Simon Parkin pencilled in for their debuts.

Experienced pair Ian Potts and Les Tatum have taken over at Boldon who have made several signings in a bid to strengthen their challenge.

Coxhoe Athletic have serious injury worries for their opener with Cleator Moor Celtic. Don Williams, their new manager, cannot call upon Neil Charlton, Paul Broom, Daniel Bell or Michael Donaghue.

Peter Maughan and David Crosby provide experience in the Ryhope CW defence. Shotton Comrades are today's visitors and they aim to improve on last year's first season in the league.

Steven Dann returns for Jarrow in the derby with Harton and Westoe and Gateshead Low Fell, who operated as Gateshead Reserves last season, meet Ferryhill Athletic at the Shildon Sunnydale Leisure Centre.