Sunderland clash won’t be a Breese for title-chasers
Burnopfield lead the way at the top of the NEPL Division One by just 14 points and they welcome fourth placed Sunderland.
And the title-chasers are wary of the Wearsiders as they close in on promotion – especially as ex-Durham star Gareth Breese will be missing.
Official Sean Cuthbertson remarked: “Neil Killeen is now injury free and makes a welcome return, but Gareth Breese is out.
“A keen eye is being kept at the top, as the side strives to maintain the points gap and remain as leaders of the division, starting with the visit of Sunderland on Saturday who are in good form themselves and lie fourth.”
Burnmoor in second, are at third placed Castle Eden and skipper Alec Linsley said: “It is likely there will be just two changes for the “big match” at Castle Eden.
“Craig Symington is in for me, whilst Ross Hodgson serves a suspension.
“This will be a tough match to win, but with current good form high, there is every reason for the side to travel with confidence and thus put a greater points total between the two, as the season draws to its close.”
South Shields are 26 points above the dreaded drop zone, which is a comfortable situation at this stage of the season and they face Brandon at home. Although the visitors have slipped down to fifth place recently, they have ‘match winners’ in their side, so Shields will have to play well to get a good result from the game. Washington can do Shields a favour, by beating bottom club Blaydon at home and skipper Ash Thorpe said: “Graeme Race and Mark Watson are missing, both being on holiday. “Liam Hickey returns from injury and things went well last week after one or two wobbles recently, so there is every reason to be optimistic that another win can be chalked up.”
Willington entertain Gateshead Fell and skipper James Stock said: It will probably be the same side as last week, after a good win and it is usually said ‘don’t change a winning team!’
“Gateshead Fell need to be treated with respect after a return to form over the last few weeks, leaving them two places and just 40 points behind us.
“The same approach as in recent weeks, should do the trick, though.”
Boldon have the weekend off.