After losing all five of our previous games on the road we need to start collecting points to stay in touch with top four. 

The side which travels up the A19 will have enforced changes. Jake Linighan is banned for two games after being sent off last week for his reaction to a yellow card. Adam Hutchinson and Ben Robertson, who have been enjoying their first season in senior rugby, have been called up to the Durham Under 20 squad which takes on a combined Lincolnshire,  Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire side -at Billingham on Sunday kick off 3.00.

Isaac Robinson is also unavailable. Fortunately, Liam Bailey is back and he'll be in a solid looking back row with Chris Atkins and Scott Butcher. James Tyers returns to the second row where he'll partner Ollie Webster - another former Academy giant making his mark at the senior level.

There's a family swap in the backs with Jake Tennant  replacing brother Max. Jake will come into the centre allowing Will Hilditch to return to the wing where he scores so many tries. Matt Siddle (pictured) celebrated his return to the club with a try last week and he'll continue his promising partnership with skipper Ryan Painter.

On the bench Tim Blades returns to provide front row cover with Stu Waites covering the backs. 

They'll face a Sunderland side renowned for its heavyweight pack. The Wearsiders' form had picked up in recent weeks until a setback at second bottom Rockcliff last week where they raced into a 20 point lead only to run out of steam - eventually going down 40-32.

No game for the Stags who were suffering injury and unavailabilty problems. The Academy have yet another game against close rivals Hartlepool aka Old Boys. The game will be at Brinkburn on Sunday kick off 1.00.