Mariners get back on the Wembley trail
SOUTH Shields will hope to take another step towards Wembley as they travel to Stafford Rangers in the FA Trophy second qualifying round.
The Mariners make the trip hoping to replicate their first qualifying round victory over Rangers’ Evo-Stik Premier Division rivals Farsley Celtic.
A whole host of Northern League clubs are eyeing up a place at the home of English football as the FA Vase returns this weekend.
There is an all-Northern League Division One tie as two of the division’s top three meet when Marske United entertain Shildon.
Morpeth Town, winners in 2016, are still without key midfielder Ben Sayer as they travel to North West Counties League club Ashton Athletic.
Fellow former winners Dunston UTS are without Dale Burrell and Scott Heslop as they prepare to host Worksop Town.
Whitley Bay are the Vase’s most successful club and they hope to have goalkeeper Tom Flynn back in their squad at Thornaby.
North Shields will welcome Gareth Bainbridge back into their squad for the home tie against Knaresborough Town.
The striker, who scored in the 2015 Vase final, was rested for the Northumberland Senior Cup tie against Whitley Bay in midweek.
There are two more Division One sides facing Division Two opposition as West Auckland Town host Billingham Town and Newcastle Benfield head to Welfare Park to face Bedlington Terriers.
Only captain Adam Nicholson is missing from the Stockton Town squad for their home tie against Bootle as the Anchors look to make it to the third round of the Vase for the first time in their history.
Tow Law Town are without David Mitchell for their tie at 1874 Northwich. Sunderland RCA visit Runcorn Linnets and fellow Wearside club Ryhope CW entertain City of Liverpool.
In Northern League Division One, Jarrow Roofing are boosted by the return of Paul Garthwaite and Jamie Marshall for their Friday night home game against Seaham Red Star.
Consett welcome Penrith to Belle Vue and Ashington make the trip to Guisborough Town, who will hope to make it three league wins in a row.
Hebburn Town could return to the top of Division Two, if they come come away from Crook Town with all three points.