The Wearside League beckons once again for Washington United this afternoon, as they take on newly-promoted Shotton Colliery at the Nissan. The two sides' last league game was back in August for Washy's second match of the campaign, and while that encounter ultimately ended with United on the business end of a 5-1 loss, the landscape has changed considerably since then for both sides.

The Opposition

The momentum from Shotton's promotion from Wearside 2 hasn't relented in the subsequent campaign so far; ten wins from eighteen games have taken the Yakkas to 5th in the league, making back-to-back promotions a very real possibility.

Recent results have seen their good form falter, however. Shotton have sustained two consecutive defeats on the road at Gateshead Leam Rangers and Annfield Plain - Washy will need to do everything today to ensure that losing streak is extended to three.

Team News

Manager Cam Thompson has a talented roster to choose from this afternoon, with the likes of James Marriner, Corey Haslam, Nathan Pears and Rhys Hood all as strong candidates to start.

Chris Rochelle is also expected to feature in the heart of defence, as he continues his impressive run of form in the First Team, while other formidable centre-back Matt Thornton is unfortunately unavailable for selection today.

Around the Grounds

The vast majority of Wearside League competitors are also among the non-league action this weekend, with the exception of FC Hartlepool's home tie against West Auckland Tunns, which is the two sides' first round of the Alan Hood Charity Cup and Richmond Town, who are away at Redcar in the North Riding Cup.

The rest are as follows:

Chester-le-Street United v Shildon AFC Reserves
Darlington RA v Gateshead Leam Rangers
Darlington Town v Wolviston
Durham Corinthians v Annfield Plain
Silksworth CW v Coxhoe Athletic
Windscale v Norton and Stockton Ancients Youth

Matchday Info

Washington United play all their home games at the Nissan Sports Club (SR5 3NS).

Kick-off is 2.30pm, with entry priced at its usual £3 for adults and £1 for concessions - both cash and contactless can be accepted.

Hot and cold food will also be available from the kiosk throughout the match, and the Penshaw Suite overlooking the ground will be open both upstairs and in the garden area for drinks, while you're watching the game.

Whether you're a regular, or just someone looking for a footy fix during the international break, your support at our game today would be invaluable. Up the Washy!