Town looking to open up big gap at the top

EBAC Northern League Division One leaders Morpeth Town host Team Northumbria tomorrow and could open up a 21-point gap on second-place Marske if they can collect back-to-back wins for the first time since February 10.

Ross Wilkinson is in line to make his first appearance for Consett when they visit Sunderland RCA.

Wilkinson joined from Whitley Bay last week and a win on his debut will see his new side move into second place.

Should Consett fail to win, West Auckland can creep into second if they see off the home challenge of Seaham Red Star.

Red Star manager Craig Lynch will be without regular goalkeeper Jordan Harkness, so James McGregor will feature.

However, Tommy Price, Lee Chapman, Codie Howe, Alex Ramshaw and Liam Hodgson all return after they missed the 4-0 defeat to Newcastle Benfield on Wednesday.

Benfield return to Sam Smith’s Park after three impressive consecutive away wins with Durham Challenge Cup finalists Dunston UTS their opponents.

Penrith can pull away from relegation danger if they overcome the awkward task of rock-bottom Billingham Synthonia.

Jarrow Roofing will hope they can capitalize if Penrith slip up against Guisborough Town.

If not, they risk being cut seven points adrift of safety.

Ryhope CW are in desperate need of a second successive win to ease their relegation worries against Ashington, while Shildon will be hoping to bounce back from their DCC exit when they visit second bottom Washington, who are without a win since November.

Andy Gowans will hope a trip Newton Aycliffe presents him with his first win since returning as Whitley Bay manager. ■■MARSKE United and Stockton Town lock horns for the first time when they meet in the FA Vase semi-final on Saturday.

Both of the two legs will be played at Stockton’s Bishopton Road due to the ongoing concerns surrounding Marske’s pitch after the recent bad weather.

Nevertheless, Carl Jarrett is “looking forward to the game.”

He said. “We are ready for a tough match against Stockton. I have a full squad to pick from and we will give it our best shot.”