Northern League: Pounder back as Easington face up to Heaton Stannington test

Frame said: “After a very disappointing result against Thornaby, we are hoping to bounce back.

“They are a good side and we are going in search of the points.”

Striker Jack Pounder will return to the squad following a head injury, but Reece Kenney will miss out through suspension. Goalkeeper Kyle Donaldson’s suspension hasn’t kicked in yet.

Harry Wood will return to the squad after an injury prevented him from playing last week.

Chester-le-Street manager Colin Wake is looking forward to the visit of Thornaby. He said: “it’s a very important game to try and match the result with the improved performances that we have been putting in of late.

“We are missing Craig Marron through injury and Chris Stephenson is suspended, but, other than that, we have a full squad to select from.”

Crook Town journey to Blyth, while leaders Tow Law Town visit Ryton & Crawcrook Albion.

Willington are at home to Jarrow and visiting manager Dave Bell, said: “In midweek, we had an excellent 5-1 away win at Silksworth (in the Durham Challenge Cup), which was a great result for us against a good side, and particularly pleasing was our second-half performance.

“Willington will be another really tough game and we have Jordon Mellish suspended, with Nick Quinn, Peter Kane, David Smith and David Fittis unavailable.

“Max Kirkham, Josh Allan, Jak Quantrill, and Grant Pressling all return, having missed the game in midweek and Dean Martin has completed his three-match ban and returns to the squad.”

Bell added: “Willington is a difficult place to go and, following two league defeats, we will be looking to getting back to picking up points.

“We do know though that this is going to be a hard game for us, but it is a one we are really looking forward to and will be well prepared for.”

Hebburn Town, in fourth place after a good start to the season, travel to Brandon United who are fourth bottom.

Fifth-top Billingham Town entertain mid-table Esh Winning.

Town have made a good start to the season and are determined to maintain their push for promotion this season.

Northallerton Town, sitting second, travel to Alnwick.

Sam Grainger, Stephen Cheeseman, Liam Jarvie and Matty Dixon are all expected to play, but Colin Anderson is missing.