WARK and Walker Central are sharing pole position with almost identical records and on 26 points each.

Oct 24 2009 Sunday Sun

With a slightly superior goal difference, Wark face in-form visitors Alnwick Town with both sides enjoying extended unbeaten runs. Each is noted for goal-scoring prowess, with Tom Vickers and Ben Keenan among Alnwick’s top guns, while 18-goal Marc Nixon and Phil Thompson have been on fire for Wark.

Walker Central hope returning to league duty brings a change in fortune. On successive Saturdays the Central have been booted out of the NFA Senior Bowl and League Cup, conceding six goals and failing to score themselves.

Today, the Central are away to Premier Division new boys Stocksfield, knowing very little about their opponents.

With third-placed Carlisle City and sixth-top Harraby Catholic Club on Cumberland Senior Cup duty, against Workington South and Windscale respectively, Heaton Stannington and Killingworth Sporting can improve their own title hopes.

Heaton boss Derek Thompson has seen his side beaten only once in six recent outings. They have solved early-season defensive problems and sharpened their skills up front, where Kevin Carr, Lawrence McKenna and Gary Yates are all in top form. Heaton will fancy their chances at Ashington Colliers, who have won only once in four games.

Killingworth Sporting, although not yet serious title contenders, have enjoyed impressive results, particularly at home. That will not be good news for struggling visitors Heddon, aiming to avoid a ninth defeat on the trot.

Shankhouse, playing only their third home game, are yet to win at Northburn – but could do the trick at the expense of Seaton Delaval.

Cramlington Town, only beaten once in six, will start as favourites at home to a rather inconsistent Blyth Town side.

Late starters Newcastle University will have a first league win on their wish list at draw experts Ponteland United.

BILL GARDNER