The game could be described as an "eight pointer" and one which has arguably more at stake for West.

A home win would keep almost certainly propel us out of the relegation places. It would also provide some breathing space ahead of a tricky February where we take on sides all at the top of the league - including leaders Driffield.

We go into the game having beaten previous leaders Morpeth at Brinkburn - the coaches will be insisting that we take the same work rate into this week's game.

We will be without two of the stand-out players from the Morpeth game in full back Liam Austwicke and winger Rob Thorn with Zac Southern returning to full back and Joe "in the corner" Willis coming in for big Rob.

Adam Brown has been figuring well in the front row and will be at hooker with Andrew Rollins and Adam Coates on either side.

Liam Checksfield is also available. He returned to the side for the 24-16 defeat at Wagon Lane in October having not had any rugby at Northumbria University for quite a few weeks, and his rustiness showed when he uncharacteristically butchered several chances. Typically, he went round the Bees clubhouse apologising to his fellow players and West supporters - there was, of course, no need.

There will be a one minute silence before the game in memory of Tony Jenkins who died suddenly just two days after officiating at our last home game against Morpeth.

 West:  Zac Southern, Will Hilditch, Liam Checksfield, Peter Youll, Joe Willis, Gavin Painter, Ryan Painter (captain), Adam Coates, Adam Brown, Andrew Rollins,  John Bunter, Jake Linighan,  Scott Butcher, Jordan Foulds,  Andrew Turner.

Changes from: Craig Hadwen, Johnny Hunter, Adam Peacock, Jay Corbett