IT LOOKS like being another difficult season for Peterlee, who ended second from bottom with four wins during 2005.

Three players left for neighbours Horden during the close season and the Newtowners have started with defeats at the hands of champions Castle Eden and Boldon CA.

They are stronger though for today's visit from last summer's wooden spoonists Houghton with Chris Ford, Adam Maddison, Mark Simpson and Matthew Briggs all available.

Houghton are also pointless following two matches and they have delayed selected of their line-up for what is an important game even at this stage of the season.

At the other end of the table three sides, Bill Quay, Murton and Silksworth, have won twice.

Bill Quay are hoping that Shaun Smith, the former Philadelphia all-rounder, will be able to play at home to Boldon CA, who have Gary Frater taking over from Ian Bellerby.

Murton, third last season, look strong enough to mount a strong championship challenge. They host Ryhope with Jonathan Seed coming in for Jordan Vout.

Pre-season Ryhope were forecast as likely title contenders, but surprisingly, they have lost both their opening matches.

Graeme Smith has announced his retirement and with Paul Howe ruled out, youngsters Danny Peterson and David Miller are drafted into the side.

Despite losing to South Shields in a midweek cup tie Silksworth have made a splendid start in the league with maximum points. For the visit of Easington their line-up Ian Laverick with Glen Davison reverting to the second XI.

A blow to Easington was the loss during the close season of David Kennedy, but they have produced a couple of encouraging performances. This afternoon they are boosted with the inclusion of Paul Neasham who takes over from Lawrence Jones.

Michael Watson makes his seasonal debut for Dawdon in the local derby with Seaham Park. Anthony Watson drops down to the second team, while Seaham Park, who only just missed out on the championship last year, will be hoping for more of the same from new professional Gary Innes, who has made a good start.

Castle Eden, who suffered a rare defeat last weekend, go to Washington where Tony Banks is named ahead of Michael Dunn.