Champions Tynedale are hoping for clearance to play South African Philip Hearle in today's Foster's Northumberland and Tyneside Senior League game against Leadgate.

Their initial application was rejected by the league and they are now awaiting the outcome of an appeal.

"Although Philip was born in Johannesburg, his parents have lived most of the time in Cheltenham. Currently he is residing and working in Hexham and we think we should be able to give the lad a game, " said fixture secretary, Gary Cant.

Prolific scorer Scott Kay and Michael Phillips cannot play so David Holt and Craig Barber fill the vacancies.

It is all change for Ponteland at Annfield Plain. Captain Stuart Taylor is the latest injury victim joining Johnny Appleby on the unavailability list. Australian Lloyd Anderson, who has scored centuries in two of the first three games, will lead the side, which includes James Ealey and Barry Scott.

Annfield Plain, hoping to make an impact in the championship race, show one change with Saqib Khan taking over from Adam Phillips.

Steve Williams is replaced by his son Greg in the Ashington line-up at Newcastle City and Sacriston, who stage their first ever U11 fixture this morning when Shotley Bridge provide the opposition, are unchanged at home to Greenside.