UniBond league division one North

Apr 25 2009 by Malcolm Pratt, The Journal

Leading scorer Paul Brayson, player-manager Steve Bowey, Steve Baker, Paul Talbot, Michael Tait, Darren Craddock, Chris Carr, David McTiernan and Chris Emms will all be checked out before kick-off.

Thanks to Blue Star’s victory at Skelmersdale, Durham City will be crowned champions if they win at Woodley Sports. Before Thursday’s result, Durham looked like having to settle for the runners-up position but their destiny is now back in their own hands.

“We are taking absolutely nothing for granted but it’s nice to know that we don’t have to rely on other results,” said Durham manager Lee Collings.

“The lads have been on fire recently but we’ve got to keep it going and clinch the title and promotion this afternoon.

“Play-offs can be a lottery and it sometimes depends which team carries the luck.

“We have come so far I don’t want to be in that situation and we need to complete the job tomorrow.”

Durham, who were due to leave early this morning to make absolutely certain their preparations are spot-on, are boosted by the return of ace striker Mattie Moffat, who was unable to play in the 6-1 rout of Mossley on Tuesday.

David Duke has recovered from a stomach strain and he, too, makes the journey. “We are all really excited. Newcastle Blue Star did us a big favour on Thursday and now it is up to us,” added Collings.