GARRY LAW has become the ninth player to re-sign for Darlington Mowden Park next season as they set their sights on challenging near the top of National One.

Following his recent return at fly half after missing most of the season with an ankle problem, the 32-year-old player-coach said: “I’m happy to be extending my stay for another year. I have thoroughly enjoyed the coaching aspect.

“Given who we are looking to retain, alongside some key players being brought in, we hope next season will be a more settled start and we can hit the ground running.”

Director of Rugby Danny Brown said: “It’s great to have Garry here. He’s been key in the development of individual players and the team as a whole, and it's also fantastic to see him back out on the pitch.”

After today's blank date Mowden resume next week at home to Hartpury College, who have already clinched the title.

The North One East game between Durham City and West Hartlepool postponed two weeks ago will take place today with both teams desperate for a win.

Six successive defeats have seen City slip from sixth into the third relegation place. Their long injury list includes star centre Bradley Pears, while highly-rated young winger Sam Heron is in Australia.

Victory would take West back above Penrith into the promotion play-off place. No 8 Sam Miller damaged ligaments in last week's defeat by Alnwick and Luke Mallinson is unavailable, so Carl Miller and Lee Maddison join skipper Dan Boatman in the back row.

Another rearranged game sees Barnard Castle visit Consett needing full points to draw level with last week's conquerors, Northern, at the top of Durham and Northumberland One.

Consett have down well since Andy Howells took over as head coach and have won their last six games.