Shildon assistant manager Stuart Niven is hoping that the Railwaymen can return to form in their crunch match at Newcastle Benfield tonight.

The Railwaymen have failed to win any of their last three Vase and league matches – until the enforced break they were flying high – and Niven said: “We’ve not been on top form since the end of the break.

“We’re playing pretty well up to the last third of the pitch, but we’re not creating enough chances. We must pick something up at Benfield.”

Shildon will be without keeper Keith Finch because of injury, so new signing Dan Staples could make his debut after signing from West Allotment. Benfield include the league’s second top scorer John Campbell, who is considering a move back into the pro game, with Orient, Swindon and Scunthorpe all showing an interest in him.

The two clubs are currently tied on 46 points, but Benfield have a marginally better goal difference.

League leaders Consett face West Auckland at Belle Vue. Manager Kenny Lindoe will probably be without midfielder Jonjo Dickman, defender Carl Piecha and striker Dale Burrell all because of injury, while Mark Eccles will have a fitness test.

West, who are in seventh place, welcome back Stuart Banks after suspension, but defender Neil Pattison is injured.

Kevin Hughes is missing for two weeks, otherwise West Allotment are at full strength for their home game against South Shields.

In the second division, Northallerton are hoping to give striker Matthew Coad his debut for the fourth time of asking when they go to Thornaby.

The home side give Chris Wrathmall his debut, while Mark Lilley and Dave Atkinson are added to the squad.

Washington, who go to Hebburn in the EA Trophy, are without keeper Dan Molyneux and defender Graham Liddle, but Sam Hodgson returns. Keeper Richard is in goal for Hebburn because Jak Wells is missing, while Dean Nicholson returns after suspension.

In the North Riding Senior Cup, Stokesley boss Ted Watts will field only one player that appeared in Saturday’s home game with Sunderland RCA when they face Kirkbymoorside.

Marske United are looking for a new commercial manager, details are available from chairman Billy Park on 07795 104589.

And Guisborough are looking for a new chairman following the resignation of Sandy McKenzie, details are available from Andrew Willis on 07984 941700.

Tonight’s games: STL Northern League Division One.

Consett v West Auckland, Newcastle Benfield v Shildon, West Allotment v South Shields.

Division Two.

Thornaby v Northallerton.

Ernest Armstrong Memorial Cup.

Hebburn v Washington.

North Riding Senior Cup.

Stokesley v Kirbymoorside