Rockcliff arrrive on the back of a 49-5 win on their artificial pitch against a depleted Rovers. Sides who play their games on the artificial surface tend to have some dangerous runners and the Whitley Bay team certainly carry some threats.

So did Sunderland last week and, while much of the 7-6 victory was a a middle of the park stalemate, it was no mean achievement to stop  the Wearsiders from crossing the whitewash. No doubt they will be similarly delighted  to have only allowed the unbeaten league leaders from scoring more than one.

It wasn't the prettiest of games, but probably more dramatic than the one at Barnard Castle who drew 0-0 with Seaham. Rare one, that.

A few changes to the line-up for the Firsts with Farmer Sam back from France to start at full back, and Will Hilditch over his illness to return to the wing.

The other changes to the 18 are all positional  with Adam Hutchinson starting at hooker and Chrissy Atkins back in his favoured back row -  Tom Robertson once again partnering Jake Linighan in the second row.

Lewis Scott, Aidan Jackson-Smith and Isaac Robinson will be those waiting to make their impact.

The annual exchange visit of rugby referees from Potomac in Washington State is underway,  and we are honoured to be welcoming Alex Schaefer to ref the first team game. We hope she enjoys her day and the game. 

The Stags enjoyed a competitive game of their own last week, drawing 27-27 with Sunderland Shipwrights, and they once again have a big squad available to nip along the A689 with 27 named.