Match Preview

Houghton welcome table topping South Shields in this hotly anticipated Durham and Northumberland division three encounter. Shields inflicted Houghton's first defeat of the season when the two sides met on the Harton 3G pitch earlier in the season. Although the encounter was very close for fifty minutes, Houghton imploded and Shields ran out clear winners. The heavy penalty count Houghton incurred that day was undoubtabley there downfall as all the points were taken by the Shields flyhalfs boot. Since that game Houghton have lost twice with Shields going unbeaten and gaining bonus point victories on their way. The game in sure to be a fierce encounter with neither side wanting to let valuable points slip. Houghton welcome back powerful centre James Ross who was missing form the Blyth game. They also give a first appearance to Aidan Towers after shining for the Boars side, since he recovery from injury.