EBAC NORTHERN LEAGUE
WHICKHAM manager Tony Fawcett is relishing the prospect of Saturday’s reunion with former club Whitley Bay.
It is just under three months since Fawcett left his role as joint-manager of the four-time FA Vase winners and he was quickly snapped up by the Lang Jacks following the departure of Mark Convery.
The former Ryton and Crawcrook Albion boss has overseen a run of five wins in seven games in all competitions and is hoping to extend that run against his old club on Saturday.
He said: “I am really looking forward to facing Whitley Bay because I met a lot of terrific people on and off the field when I was there. It will be really nice to catch up with them - but the main focus is on winning the game to continue our good home form.”
Fawcett could hand a debut to new signing Callum Elliott after he joined the club from Northern Premier League neighbours Dunston UTS.
Division One leaders Consett have Scott Heslop available for the first time when they visit Seaham Red Star and West Allotment Celtic new boy Robbie Christie could be handed an immediate reunion with former club North Shields when the two sides meet at East Palmersville.
Colin Stromsoy will take charge of Newcastle Benfield for the first time when they entertain West Auckland Town and a suspension has ruled Chris Wallace out of Ryhope CW’s home game against local rivals Sunderland RCA.
Ashington will make their long-awaited return to competitive action with a home game against Penrith and Thornaby will hope to rack up a fifth consecutive win when they head to Crook Town.
New signing Josh Rowbotham could feature for Bishop Auckland when they entertain Guisborough Town and his former club Northallerton Town host Redcar Athletic at the Calvert Stadium.
Division Two leaders Heaton
Stannington have new signing Evan Howard available for their home game with Jarrow.
Sunderland West End are contending with a number of Covid cases ahead of their trip to Billingham Synthonia and Boldon CA face a similar issue as they prepare to visit Tow Law Town.
Horden CW are boosted by the return of Barney Dobinson and Chris Tarn ahead of their home game against Newcastle University.
Kieren Broomfield is out of Washington’s home game against Blyth Town as he serves a ban and Birtley Town look to improve on a record of just one win in five league games when they host Bedlington Terriers.
The suspended Mason Stephenson will sit out Chester-le-Street Town’s visit to struggling Brandon United.
Bottom of the table Durham City entertain Carlisle City and promotion chasing Ryton and Crawcrook Albion head to Redcar Town.