Roofers need to raise themselves for challenge
JARROW Roofing, with just one win and two draws from their first four games, welcome Seaham Red Star to the Boldon CA Sports Ground tomorrow in the Ebac Northern League Division One – and are in need of a boost.
Roofing boss Richie McLoughlin said: “We will need a good performance to push on from Tuesday night’s draw against Bishop Auckland and take the three points.
“Seaham have some good players and this game will test us and them but I expect a good attacking game from both teams.
“We must be aware of delivering a good performance and not falling into the trap of doing difficult things - that will result in a poor game. We will need to make sure we are up for this game.”
Red Star’s secretary Dave Copeland, reports manager Mark Collingwood misses three players with Kyran Whitehead unavailable, Lee Maitland suspended and Kris Hughes injured.
However, Corey Barnes is available for selection. Ashington welcome Guisborough to Woodhorn Lane, with goalkeeper Conor Grant and midfielder Scott Blandford both returning to the squad.
However, Craig Scott, Ryan Bell and Ben Harmison are all ruled out while manager Steve Harmison awaits fitness reports from James Harmison, Wayne Buchanan and Ben Christensen.
Ryhope CW could hardly face a more difficult task than visiting Shildon, who have made a positive start to the season.
Gary Pearson’s side misses Nathan O’Neill and Joey Melvin who are on unavailable and Kyle Davis is playing cricket. There will be late fitness tests for Stephen Francis, Leon Ryan, Richie Paxton and Elliott Woods.
South Shields travel to Chester-leStreet, who are without a point so far this season.
The home side have eight players out through either injury or holidays.
Manager Colin Wake is looking to complete two signings before the game, a midfielder and striker, to boost the squad.
He said, “The lads now know how tough this season is going to be.
“We always knew it was going to be difficult but we must remain optimistic and we look forward to the game.”
Morpeth Town travel to Meadow Park to face Sunderland RCA, who are currently in second place after a positive start to the season.
The home side are carrying a few injuries at present, including James Cassidy who took a bad knock last weekend.
With Jonny Wightman still playing cricket and Steven Stewart suspended, they a bit thin on the ground.
Rob Jones from the club stated: “We are grinding out results so credit to the lads as we are a bit depleted.”
In Division Two, Blyth Town are at home to Thornaby and – having secured a draw against league toppers Stockton Town last Saturday despite torrential rain – manager Mick Connors says the team is on its way back to full strength.
He said: “Since the beginning of the season we have had a number of our key players out with injury but we are hoping to welcome them back by the weekend along with the announcement of two new signings.
“The team has looked strong in training.
“Despite last week’s draw against Stockton, I was satisfied with the team’s performance against a very good Stockton side who will be there or thereabouts by the end of the season.”
Easington Colliery have started the season brilliantly as they welcome Billingham Town and they have a full squad to choose from tomorrow.
Secretary Billy Banks said: “It is a great start. There is a very long way to go but the management team is delighted with results at present.”