FIVE North-East players, including two from the host club, have been named in the England Counties squad of 23 for the match against Ireland Clubs XV at Darlington Mowden Park's Northern Echo Arena next Friday (7.30).

Mowden skipper Cameron Mitchell retains his place and lock Pierce Phillips will hope to appear this time after being left on the bench in the narrow defeat in France two weeks ago.

Blaydon forwards Robbie Kalbraier, Chris Wearmouth and Gavin Jones are also included, although Jones might have to make way for Wharfedale No

8 Rob Baldwin, who missed the defeat by France Federale in Nevers through suspension.

Fylde fly-half Chris Johnson, who replaced Baldwin as captain, will lead the side again and will be partnered at half back by Old Albanians scrum-half Stefan Liebenberg, who has recovered from injury.

Ticket prices are £5 for adults if pre-booked or £7 on the day. Under 16s go free. Tickets can be booked through the Arena main reception on 01325 350267. Mowden Park are also offering a pre-match curry with a ground admission ticket for £10, which must be booked in advance.

England Counties XV squad: Backs: Jack Adams (Cinderford), Richard Bolt (Exmouth), Chris Briers (Fylde), Chris Johnson (Fylde, captain), Stefan Liebenberg (Old Albanians), Cameron Mitchell (Mowden Park), Luke Myring (Coventry), Kiba Richards (Worthing), Sean Taylor (Preston Grasshoppers), Jim Wigglesworth (Cambridge). Forwards: Rob Baldwin (Wharfedale), Ollie Cooper-Millar (Old Albanians), Jamal Ford-Robinson (Cambridge), Mark George (Stourbridge), Ben Hilton (Launceston), Gavin Jones (Blaydon), Robbie Kalbriaer (Blaydon), Adam Lewis (Fylde), Johnny Matthews (Sedgley Park), Brett McNamee (Old Albanians), Pierce Phillips (Mowden Park), Tom Stradwick (Blackheath), Chris Wearmouth (Blaydon).