Bishops looking to stretch unbeaten league run

Bishops came back from 2-1 down with nine men to snatch a draw at Shildon last Saturday, and manager Colin Myers said: “The players showed some excellent character and commitment last Saturday, and hopefully they’ll keep producing those qualities.”

Darren Richardson, who scored the last minute equaliser at Shildon last Saturday, will have a fitness test, but defender Wayne Clarke returns after suspension.

Bedlington, who are in the bottom half of the table but have played only nine games, have placed midfielder MarkConvery on the transfer list, and are hoping to complete the signing of striker Steven Baptiste from Shildon before the game.

Billingham Synthonia, who are at home to Shildon, will probably have a full squad available as they try climb into the top five. Don’t have any injury problems Shildon, who have games in hand on all the teams above them, will be at full strength.

In the other game, Stokesley are at home to Billingham Town In the second division, Northallerton have a tough home game against Whickham, but they go into the game in high spirits after putting six past Thornaby last weekend. Striker Gary Mitchell and midfielder Stephen Butterworth are both doubtful, while Paul Hodgson and Simon Dodsworth both return. Kieron Wrightson and Sam McIntosh both return for Whickham, but Scott Robson and Craig Tate both return.

In the Northumberland Senior Cup, North Shields are at home to Morpeth, and they are missing four players , Andrew Wright, James Harmison, Rob Livermore and Mark Rasmussen. But five return -- Paul Gordon, Stephen Salter, Craig Deighton, Liam Harris and Michael Robinson.

West Allotment manager Paul Stoneman will make a few changes for their home tie against Team Northumbria. Allotment are unbeaten in their last seven league matches, while Team Northumbria are showing signs of breaking away at the top of the second division. TN add Mark Bertram and Graeme Carrick to their squad.