Northern League Division Two
Durham City manager Billy Harper could hand starts to two new signings when they host West Allotment Celtic on Saturday.
Michael Smith and David Gourley have been registered with the Division Two strugglers for over a month, but will finally make their debuts at Hall Lane after returning from America.
Harris Saunders could also make another start after debuting in last week’s ‘home’ defeat against landlords Willington.
Harper confirmed that the duo will be in the squad, but also revealed that one key player is struggling for fitness ahead of the game.
He said: “We have two new additions available for selection against West Allotment and they will bolster the strength of the squad.
“However, we are still awaiting news on the fitness of Carl Pottinger.
“But apart from that we are going into the game with a strong squad.”
The Citizens will be without David Gibson as he serves a one-match suspension.
Easington Colliery can move into the top half of the table if they can secure a win at Ryton & Crawcrook Albion.
A suspension rules out David Vincent, but Michael Cooke is expected to return to the Colliers squad.
Midfielder Chris Freeman is unlikely to feature after joining Wearside League club Horden CW on a dual-registration. The Colliers are looking to bounce back from their 3-1 defeat at Redcar Athletic with a win at Kingsley Park. Joint-manager Craig Hughes said: “We didn’t play badly last week at Redcar and we were a bit unfortunate with the result. “Hopefully we’ll put in a good display and get a response at Ryton on Saturday.” Chester-leStreet Town will have to become the first team to beat leaders Billingham Town in the league this season if they are to have a chance of moving into the top three this weekend.
The Cestrians would end the year in second place with a win, if Thornaby and Northallerton Town slip to defeats against Esh Winning and Tow Law Town respectively.
Injuries have ruled Jarrow FC duo Alex Bone and Channon North out of their trip to Birtley Town and Luke Bailey will miss Brandon United’s home game against Heaton Stannington as he serves a one-match suspension.
Fifteenth-placed Crook Town will be targeting only their second away win of the season when they travel to Doctor Pitt Park to face Bedlington Terriers, who are 12th.