Sunderland fired up for big clash with Northallerton

Sunderland RFC have a break from league action as they host high-flying Northallerton in the National Cup at Ashbrooke tomorrow (2pm KO).

The North Yorkshire outfit lie third in Yorkshire Division Two, losing just twice in their last five outings and are well matched against a Sunderland side on a similarly strong run, last week posting more than 60 points against Gosforth.

Northallerton have already qualified from the regional round of the competition, so travel to Sunderland as strong favourites having already dispatched Durham and Northumberland League Two leaders Whitley Bay Rockcliff in emphatic fashion.

Sunderland chairman Paul Geehan said: “They should be strong up front and will maybe even a few overseas players.

“It is a game we are looking forward to and Northallerton have really been great about coming up. They are here to enjoy the match and stay behind for the England game afterwards, which really shows the club in a good light.

“Hopefully we can put a good, strong team out. There are a few players unavailable, but nothing we will slip up on.”

Centre Dean Edmundson faces a spell on the sidelines, after breaking a bone in his foot, while full back Leon Ryan may be unavailable due to a family holiday.”

Meanwhile the Second XV - now through to the semi-finals of the cup v Winlaton Vulcans - host Durham City II at Hill View (1.45pm KO).

Geehan added: “The seconds are coming on really well, thanks to the management in place around them.

“Players are returning from injury and making themselves available which is increasing the competition for places.”