Clubs seek to take another step to glory

SIX Ebac Northern League clubs remain in this season’s FA Vase and they will hope to take a step closer to Wembley this weekend.

Two-time finalists West Auckland Town host league rivals and fourtime winners Whitley Bay.

The Seahorses head to the Wanted Stadium with a fully-fit squad aiming to reach the fourth round for the first time since 2013.

There is one other all-Northern League tie as North Shields make the short trip to Newcastle Benfield.

The Robins are without recent signings Ben Sampson and Ben Harmison as the duo appeared for Ashington in an earlier round.

Vase favourites Marske United face visit Runcorn Linnets, who have already beaten Team Northumbria and Sunderland RCA in the Vase this season.

Stockton Town could make club history by reaching the fourth round for the first time if they can overcome City of Liverpool.

Northern League Division One leaders Morpeth Town face a toughlooking trip to fifth-placed Consett.

The Highwaymen are without the suspended Chris Reid and have an injury doubt over winger Sean Taylor.

Dunston UTS are missing the suspended Ben Pollock for their home game against Ashington.

The Colliers’ Dale Pearson is out after losing an appeal against the red card he received against West Auckland last weekend.

Jarrow Roofing head to Newton Aycliffe without Jamie Marshall and Scott McArdle, although they do welcome back Paul Garthwaite.

Blyth AFC could top Division Two if they win at Willington and Northallerton lose to Thornaby.

Third meets sixth as Heaton Stannington make the trip across the Tyne to meet Whickham.

The Stan are without striker Dan Robinson, who could make his Hebburn Town debut against Tow Law Town after moving to South Tyneside on Tuesday.

West Allotment Celtic will hope to continue their recent improvement with a home win against Durham City and bottom-of-the-table Alnwick Town head to Ryton and Crawcrook Albion.

Bedlington Terriers will look to bounce back from defeat at West Allotment as they host Darlington RA and Billingham Town travel to Chester-le-Street Town.

Jay Redman returns to the Easington Colliery squad for their trip to Crook Town while Jarrow head to Esh Winning.