Fortunately, there is an eight point cushion over Penrith, nine over the Northumbrians and ten over Pocklington who we visit in a fortnight. As a result we go into the games with the pressure on the hosts to try to close the gap. They will all be aware that they have to visit Brinkburn in 2017.

The run got off to a good start when a much changed side drew at Penrith - a game where we finished the stronger.

And once again there will be enforced changes for the trip up the A1 with Coatesy on international duty at Twickers, and last week's Man of the Match John Bunter having to work. Joe Willis is also unavailable after surviving his semi-garrotting last week.

Liam Checksfield almost made the return, however a fitness test on his calf injury at his Falcons' training session last night ruled him out. The other injury victim is Michael Hogan who has been on good form so far - he's damaged a shoulder and could be out for a couple of weeks.

The good news (for the West coaches) is that the Myers boys should have been in Bangkok with a Hartlepool  Select 7's team this weekend. However, the nation is in a long period of mourning following the death of their King so the tournament has been cancelled.

Aaron will make only his second start of the season in the back row alongside Sam Miller and Lee Maddison, while Eldon, unusually quiet against City last week, gets another chance to restore his "land legs" alongside Peter Youll.

Rob Thorn takes over from young Joe, while Tim Blades is fit again and comes into the front row alongside Andrew Rollins and Ross Wood. With Aaron available skipper Danny Boatman will partner Joe Rafferty in the second row.

Games between the two sides are normally close and tend to go with the home team. The hosts have won all five of their games at Greensfield Road, although local rivals Morpeth (next up for us at home) ran them very close a fortnight ago  - Alnwick just sneaking the 9-8 win with a last ditch penalty from dangerous full back James Bird.

Last week they lost 22-20 at Pocklington - another side going very well at home.

West: Zac Southern, Rob Thorn, Eldon Myers, Peter Youll,, Will Hilditch, Gavin Painter, Ryan Painter,  Tim Blades, Andrew Rollins, Ross Wood,  Joe Rafferty, Dan Boatman (captain), Aaron Myers, Lee Maddison, Sam Miller.

Changes: Greg Edwards, Alex Barker, Jay Corbett.