Richmondshire could walk off with the Darlington Building Society NYSD ECB Premier League title, if they win at home to Hartlepool and Marton lose at Seaton Carew, who look destined to be relegated. The Dalesmen have a 14-point lead at the top, with just two games left.
Vice-captain Robert Carr said: “We keep the same team following our stunning last over win at Barnard Castle last Monday. We just have to keep winning, as Marton are keeping the pressure right on us.”
Darlington must win at Billingham Synthonia, because if they don’t and Middlesbrough defeat Marske, they will be relegated.
Club official Garry Moody said: “The pressure is really on and league legend Jonny Barnes plays again, following his haul of five wickets last week and Peter Armstrong returns after holiday, for a must win game.”
The Synners have a full squad of players to pick from, and club official Danny Phillips said: “We will be looking to gain a positive result to keep the spirits high and we know Darlington need a victory to help in their push for survival, so it will be a tough game.”
Barnard Castle journey to Great Ayton, and skipper James Quinn said: “We are eager to finish the season well, there are a few teams fighting for third position, so we will be looking to win our final two games.”
Dukes ECB North East Premier League leaders Burnmoor travel to Newcastle looking for a win that would move them closer towards winning the title. They have a 29-point lead, with just three games remaining and skipper Alec Linsley said: “We have one change, as Riley Blunt comes in after scoring over 250 runs over the weekend and he replaces Alan Worthy.
“It’s our first league trip to Newcastle and we are excited at the prospect of playing there. They are bottom of the league, but have had such a great history in this league that we won’t be taking them lightly. I expect a really tough game, but hopefully we have enough experience to get us over the line.”
Chester-le-Street are second and they host Burnopfield.
Skipper John Coxon said: “It was a great win for us last Saturday against South North. It was a real team performance but in particular, Jake McCann was excellent at the top of the order and Quentin Hughes outstanding with ball first, then with the bat, to get us over the line.
“It’s the same equation for us this week - win the game. We are playing our best cricket of the season and it’s giving us a great chance of winning the league.”
Eppleton entertain the other title contenders South North. The home side are difficult to beat and sit in fifth.
Sacriston entertain unchanged Hetton Lyons and fixture secretary Iain Bestford said: “We have Mel Betts, Rory McInnes-Gibbons, Jonny Bushnell and Nathan Hall all back in contention as we look to continue our recent run of good form. We're pleased with the progress we have made this season and are looking forward to continuing our upward progression.”
Northumberland and Tyneside Cricket League leaders Lanchester are at home to Percy Main and skipper Kieron Taylor said: “Lewis Donnelly drops out with David Barnett coming into the side.
The club had a great weekend last week, with the first team and second team both winning on Saturday, while on Sunday the first team won the Hedworth Williamson Cup at Whitburn, so we will be looking to carry our momentum forward, as the season draws to a close.”
Visiting skipper David Anderson said: “Phil Cramman and the three lads who helped us out with so many players being away last weekend go out, and James Peart, Michael Phillips, Amit Sunda and Laura Robinson all come back in.”
“We are looking forward to the game. They are top of the league and we are not safe yet, so we will be up for the game big time.”
Promoted from Division Two, Leadgate travel to relegated Blyth, determined to claim sufficient points to claim the league title. The side is the same as the one that took to the field last week, when a win showed them to be in form.
Readers Durham Cricket League leaders Easington welcome Tudhoe and skipper Luke Bannister reports the ideal situation: “We are an unchanged team and all the players are ready and raring to go, to press home their current status, at the top of the league.”
Horden are bottom and need a win as they host Littletown. Michael Hall should return from holiday and John Pratt who give way. Club official Adam Dixon said: “Points will be at a premium, but there is plenty to play for and the side is showing signs of good form for the run in.”
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