Barton back as Lee looks for RCA to maintain lift- off

SUNDERLAND RCA manager David Lee is hoping his side can build on the midweek victory which lifted them to eighth from bottom in the First Division.

The Wearsiders go to Martin Swales’ Bishop Auckland, where Lee welcomes the return of experienced striker Gavin Barton.

Danny Reay is a definite absentee, while goalkeeper John Carmichael will undergo a fitness test before kick- off.

Durham City are seventh and manager Adam Furness will check the availability of one or two players before finalising his line- up at Billingham Synthonia, who are enjoying a purple patch.

“We are having our best run for a couple of years and Tuesday’s win over Ashington lifted us into the top six,” enthused Synners secretary Graham Craggs.

Theodore Furness, who previously played for Norton and Stockton Ancients, made his debut against Ashington and will again be involved but Danny Newby is sidelined with a hamstring injury.

Newcastle Benfield, unbeaten in 13 games, at home to Morpeth Town ( 7pm kick- off as part of a groundhoppers weekend), only miss Gareth Williams.

Billingham Town claimed their first points of the season on Tuesday to move off the bottom.

Away to Crook Town, manager Paul Burton has Alan Cossavella, and Jon Burton back in the fold, but Derek Bradley is an injury doubt.

Whitley Bay boss Ian Chandler has added Jarrett Rivers, Chris Fawcett, Tom Kindley and Brad Brooking to his squad for the 4pm kick- off at Team Northumbria.

Dunston UTS expect to be without regular marksman Andy Bulford, but Gary Shaw should return for the visit of Guisborough Town.

The top two are both in action tonight, with Shildon hosting Ashington and Spennymoor taking on Newton Aycliffe at the Brewery Field.