This is the North East | Sport | Cricket | Boddington's Durham Coast League

Despite winning only twice in nine attempts Washington are more than happy with the progress they have made since transferring from the Roseberry Group North East Durham League.

"It was quite a step to take and our aim this season is to consolidate our new found status," said Washington chairman David Marshall.

"We have made a reasonable start with a couple of victories and three draws.

"But just as importantly we have been able to give several youngsters their chance at a higher standard.

"Stephen Cuthbertson, Matthew Thompson, Mark Lee and Stephen Bowes are all regulars, yet the quartet still play in the U18 side."

Today Washington face a stiff test at Seaham Park.

Seaham are by far the most improved side in the league to date.

For years they have been left floundering in the doldrums.

But, as this weekend's fixtures approach, they are sitting third from top and in with a real chance of challenging leaders Murton and Castle Eden.

Washington welcome back the return of Michael Garrod and Neil Hargrave.

Seaham Park, meanwhile, are hopeful that the influential Alan Dick will be able to play.

Ian White and Bobby Howe are ruled out.

Leaders Murton, the only unbeaten side with five wins and four draws from nine games, aim to win the championship for a third successive season.

They visit bottom of the table Houghton, and not unnaturally have announced an unchanged line-up.

Houghton showed one alteration with former Philadelphia player and all rounder John Grant, retruning to the side.

Castle Eden are second just seven points off the top and they are involved in the local derby with Peterlee.

Castle Eden, who on Sunday host Wolviston in the regional final of National Village Cup after defeating Ingleton last weekend, have David Garrigan taking over from Craig Walker.

Peterlee have also shown considerable improvement.

This time around they are sitting healthily in a mid table place after struggling throughout the 2004 season.

They are back to full strength with the inclusion of Michael Garrigan.

Garrigan's return means Graham Peat drops down in to the second XI.

Michael Watson is still ruled out so Dawdon are unaltered for their home fixture with Silksworth.

Silksworth have Mark Jones replacing Ian Laverick.

Ryhope, who challenged all the way for the title last season, have so far managed just two victories and are fifth from bottom before they host Boldon CA.

Captain Graeme Smith, wicket keeper Ian Lawrence and John Brett all line up.

Danny Pearson though cannot play, with Glyn Lamb and Philip Hutchinson named in the second XI.

Easington anticipate fielding a strong lineup for their game at Bill Quay.

Bill Quay welcome the return of Willie Gardiner coming in for Craig Falcus.

• Back