ACKLAM take on Guisborough tomorrow with both sides having made a steady start in Durham and Northumberland One.
They were promoted together last season, when Guisborough won the title, and lock horns at Acklam for the first time at this level.
Both sides seek a third win of the campaign, with Acklam two places above their visitors, having won twice and tied one.
For Acklam Dave Richardson makes a return at full-back, Mark Kearns replaces the unavailable Tim Savage in the second row, and ex-Blaydon player Adam Kibirige makes his debut on the wing.
Guisborough are without hooker Kevin Gray and No 10 James Clarke, but go into the game in confident mood.
“We feel we should have beaten Alnwick last week. We camped in their half for a long spell,” said Guisborough chairman Dave Newstead.
“It was a bit of a silly defeat and we must put it behind us. Our only other loss was to Darlington which is a result that was expected.
“Tomorrow is a game to relish. Acklam and ourselves have become rivals because we have risen together. Both clubs are doing well.”
In the same division, high-flying Stockton seek a fifth successive win when they host mid-table Gosforth.
Stockton are in second place, behind Alnwick on points difference.
After winning at previously unbeaten Darlington last Saturday, Stockton will want to ensure that there is no complacency.
Stockton, who lost the home game with Gosforth last season, will be without experienced prop Simon Brown who turned an ankle at Darlington, and lock Todd Highfield who is unavailable.
Maurice Douthwaite holds his place at prop after coming on last week and James Herring comes in at lock. Coach Craig Lee gives his knees a rest so Craig Slaughter comes into the back division.
