Northern Alliance

Nov 7 2009 The Journal

WALKER Central, still stinging from a 2-1 reverse at the hands of Newcastle University, hope to protect their 100% away record at Blyth Town, who have re-signed Neil Blades from Seaton Delaval but have earned only two points from three games.

Joint leaders Wark hit the buffers last weekend beaten 2-1 at home by Heaton Stannington but they’ve been travelling well and may prove too strong for today’s hosts Cramlington Town, only once home winners.

The Town, however, have strengthened their squad by signing Mick Burns and Martin Wardale from Sunday football.

Third-placed Carlisle City are now within three points of the top with a game in hand and Stephen Bellas’s side remain unbeaten away from home.

But this afternoon’s clash with fourth-placed Heaton Stannington at Grounsell Park will be a real tester.

Killingworth Sporting have just been lacking a little consistency as they aim to become involved in the championship stakes.

Shankhouse are taking a break from league duties to tackle Whitley Bay A at Hillheads in the second round of the Kicks Leisure League Cup.

And they can be overtaken in the Premier Division by both Ponteland United and Stocksfield if these two collect maximum points today.

Stocksfield entertain bottom rung outfit Heddon at Kimberley Park. Defender

Although Ponteland’s seven-match unbeaten run includes four draws, team boss Jarrod Suddick is happy with the renewed confidence of his side.

They will be starting as favourites against Seaton Delaval at the Leisure Centre Ground, their opponents have plunged down the table losing four away games on the trot.

Both Alnwick Town and visitors Harraby Catholic Club have suffered from a damaging dip in form and the result of their meeting at St James’ Park is difficult to predict.

And Murton, hope to secure a first away win at the expense of mid-table opponents Ashington Colliers.

BILL GARDNER