Sunderland RCA, who have been in pole position almost since day one, could see their lead at the top of the Second Division wiped out if they lose tomorrow's match of the day with Jarrow Roofing at Meadow Park.
Until recently, the Wearsiders boasted a nine-point advantage which has been whittled down to just three points following two defeats.
"Recently, we have been under strength but hopefully Scott Richards and Paul Taylor will be back for what is a m
assive game," said RCA Chairman Owen Haley.
RCA are just three points ahead of Whitehaven while Jarrow Roofing are third and, although seven points off the top, have two games in hand.
Roofing manager Richard McLoughlin, pleased that his side returned to winning form last weekend, is hoping to avenge a 2-1 defeat by RCA when the sides last met.
He said: "We are going there in a positive frame of mind. I thought we played much better last Saturday and the performance will give the lads confidence."
A blow to Jarrow, however, is the unavailability of Michael Chapman but Craig Nelson resumes.
Seaham Red Star aim to build on last week's victory when they go to bottom of the table Darlington RA who have taken just three points from 15 games. Red Star's only absentee is Jordan Hugill.
Birtley Town are experiencing a torrid season and are just one place and three points above the basement before the visit of promotion hopefuls Marske United.
"It hasn't been easy and it is difficult to attract players but I've managed to bring in Craig Whorlton and I'm hopeful of making another signing before the game," said manager Scott Oliver.
"Stuart Anderson is ruled out with a back injury but fortunately Finbar Lynch can play."
Washington go to Guisborough Town hoping to put a poor run of form behind them. Player-manager David Lee is still sidelined following a knee operation.
The Newtowners expect to have Peter Watling and Will Caris available.
In Division One, Chester-le-Street manager Stuart Sherwood would like his team to show more consistency.
Last weekend, they lost to Billingham Synthonia but then produced one of the shock results in the Durham Challenge Cup when they defeated Dunston UTS earlier in the week.
"Nobody can put a finger on it, but one week we can beat the best and the next week we are not nearly so good," said chairman Joe Burlison.
Robert Palmer is doubtful and Sherwood has released Jimmy Farrell.
Following their midweek defeat in the Durham Challenge Cup, Billingham Town manager Peter Mulcaster will need to check on the fitness of a number of players, especially Stephen Flockett and Josh Moody who both needed to be substituted.
Horden CW's new boss Craig Veart is delighted with the work rate of his squad and is confident it is only a question of time before the Colliers move up the table.
"I've told the lads that if they work hard we will reap the rewards.
All we need is a bit of luck," said Veart, who has signed Carl Richards on a month-long loan from Spennymoor Town.
He goes straight into he squad at Shildon and fit again Jamie Arthur is also named but Jack Pounder, Graeme Robinson and Kevin Dixon remain side-lined.
Spennymoor Town, with a three-point lead over Whitley Bay at the top of the table, will be wary of the visit from Billingham Synthonia to the Brewery Field.
Synners have won their last five games but their chances of making it six victories on the bounce have suffered a blow with the news that
Andy Harbron, Mark Casey and Leon Carling are all out.
Whitley Bay visit South Shields who are enjoying their best season for several years.
Mariners manager Gary Steadman has Tony Coe and David Graham suspended while Duncan O'Brien is out with a hamstring injury.
