Sunderland RFC back in action against Blyth

Rugby returns to Ashbrooke this weekend after a rain-affected fortnight, with the First XV entertaining Blyth (2.30pm).

The squad aim to rest key players for the visit, with Joe Arrowsmith taking a break from the sport after a recent concussion.

Chairman Paul Geehan said: "He came to the decision himself following symptoms after his last knock and is taking a complete break.

Safety is of the most paramount consideration. However, the coaches aim to keep him involved in coaching around the senior team."

Cam Toole looks set to take over the team's captaincy in his absence and ahead of a run in, in which the team needs to win every game to claim the DN2 title. Player coach Martin Watt is returning to play following a lengthy spell of absence.

"The target is to win all the games that we have left - that's the reality and there are some tricky fixtures among them," admitted Geehan.

Among them is a cup final against bogey team Winlaton Vulcans. Geehan added: "If we make sure we have a strong bench then we have a chance, particularly looking at the younger players who continue to come through."

Both the Second XV and Third XV are in action against Horden Second XV and South Shields Westoe Third XV, respectively.

Recently, Sunderland U16s triumphed 29-15 over a combined Billingham/ Hartlepool/Bishop Auckland Cavaliers team. The youngsters had the upper hand throughout against a team which featured six Durham County U16s. Adam Williams (2), Ethan Marrs, James Docherty and Chris Rochelle tries sealed the win.