Northallerton Town P North Shields P

A WATERLOGGED pitch last Saturday saw Northallerton Town’s match against runaway league leaders North Shields postponed.

Having not played since December 14 when they were beaten 4-1 at home by Alnwick Town, Peter Mulcaster’s side were desperate for the game to be on but despite the hard work of groundsmen Les Hood and Dave Rennison, the heavy rain proved too much.

Town have it all to do in 2014 if they are to force their way back into the promotion race. Currently sitting in seventh spot, Town trail third placed Heaton Stannington by six points having played two games more. However, it is very tight at the top with just nine points separating West Allotment Celtic in second with Birtley Town in ninth so a good run in the New Year would see Mulcaster’s men in contention.

Town are back in action tomorrow with a tough trip to Whickham, who forced a 1-1 draw at the Calvert Stadium back in September.

Mulcaster should have a nearfull strength squad to choose from as goalkeeper James Howarth has recovered from a head injury while Christian Holliday could also return after missing the last four matches with a groin problem. Kick off at Glebe Sports Ground is 3pm. The next home game is a week on Saturday when South Shields are the visitors.