Colledge still targeting a top-eight finish as Horden head to Terriers

Horden CW assistant manager Andy Colledge is in confident mood ahead of his side’s visit to Bedlington Terriers tonight.

Jonathan Payne’s men are unbeaten since a 2-1 home loss against Redcar Town in November, and travel to Northumberland looking for a fourth consecutive win.

That could take them to within two points of the Northern League Division

Two play-off places, and Colledge is looking forward to the challenge against a Terriers side sat in the bottom five of the table.

He told The Echo: “We are on a good run of form at the minute and the top-eight target we set ourselves at the start of the season looks very much achievable.

“It’s our first season in the league as a new club and we were playing in the Durham

Alliance just four years ago!

“I know Bedlington will be a tough place to go.

"But if we play the way we have been for the last two months, I am confident we can get three points.”

Colledge confirmed Horden are without Liam Dunn and Jack Maskell, who are both on Durham County FA Under-18s duty.

There was some positive news as Neil Fannen returns from an injury.

Play-off challenging Boldon CA are without Andrew Hunter, Codie Howe, Charlie McLeod and Kris Allen for their visit to Redcar Town.

Troubled Billingham Synthonia will focus on onfield matters when they host Willington.

Synners released a statement on Thursday morning confirming their major investor had pulled support from the club and they are now awaiting talks with potential new backers.

Jarrow could hand a start to new signing Jimmy Lone when they visit Birtley Town, and Washington are without the suspended Brad Chisholm for their home game with Chester-leStreet Town.

Easington Colliery will be confident of taking all three points from their visit to bottom-of-the-table Durham City, and leaders Heaton Stannington face Tow Law Town at Grounsell Park.

Carlisle City are looking for a third win in four games at Brandon United and two sides in the bottom four meet at Gateway Park as Blyth Town entertain their fellow strugglers Esh Winning.