Houghton looking for payback against South Shields

In the latest round of the Top Ten fixtures, Houghton will look to avenge the 8-2 loss South Shields’ inflicted on them a fortnight ago as the two team clash today at Houghton (2pm).

Houghton line up: Singles G.McPheators. Pairs: J. Sutherland, D.Oram. Triples: S.Tindale, P.Brickle, R.Mckie. Fours: E.Downes, D.Armstrong, AJ.Dunn, F.Froud.

The Seniors’ Inter County League returns this week.

In Group Three, Houghton Sancroft will look to secure a play-off spot with a home win over South Shields on Thursday (12.30pm). Anything better than a 3-2 win will guarantee Sancroft a place in the playoffs for the second year running.

Sancroft team: J.Sutherland, P.Thomson, J.Swinney,

I.Whorlton, F.Fletcher, B.Race, D.Sim, J.Jones, T.Joicey, T.Todd, D.Wright, F.Froud.

While in Group Four, Houghton Kepier will look for their first win of the season as they head to Hartlepool B on Wednesday (10.30am).

Kepier team: S.Barnes, G.Callaghan, D.Armstrong, F.Kell, T.Grimes, A.Wells, T.Davies, B.Johnson,

P.Taylor, P.Crook, J.Rose, A.Newton.

Latest Standings: Group Three: Sancroft 13, Stanley 9½, South Shields A 5, Gateshead A 2½

Group Four: Durham B 14½, Gateshead B 13, Hartlepool B 10½, Parks A 10½, Kepier 1½

On Friday, Houghton women face a tough opener in the Mason Trophy Double Fours as they tackle Durham (10am).

At Houghton: J.Watt, M.Eggleston, B.Robson, J.Rodgerson. At Durham: M. Hall, M.Metcalf, F.Phythian, N.Stephenson.

The Open Singles grand final took place at the Potters resort last weekend.

Former winner Durham’s Gary Smith had a disappointment day losing all three of his round robin group games.

The grand final winner was Westlecot’s Neil Smith, who beat Falcons’ James Rippey on a tie breaker.

The Open Singles Circuit is in the area today and tomorrow as Durham hosts its annual event.

There was some sad county news this week as the former Hartlepool and Durham County bowler Ken Bainbridge sadly passed away.