It’s a big game in Durham & Northumberland 2 on Saturday as DMP Elizabethans return to the Darlington Arena in Round 19. This weekend’s opponents North Shields sit just 2 points ahead of DMPE in 9th spot, setting up an important clash for both sides.

This year marks the Elizabethans first season in DN2 following their promotion in 2022/23. Del Russell’s side currently occupy 10th place in the table, and a win on Saturday would go a long way to securing their DN2 status for next season. Asked about their season so far, Russell said: “This season has been a learning curve for myself and the team as to what is needed to perform in this league. Due to injury and not having a consistent team, results haven’t gone our way which means we have found ourselves in an uncomfortable position towards the foot of the table.”

“However I have full confidence that the boys will give a 100% on the pitch to achieve the result they deserve in winning their next game against North Shields.”

The reverse fixture between the two sides saw North Shields take a 28-15 win back in November, and the Elizabethans will be hoping to reverse that form when they return to home soil this weekend. DMPE’s four league wins this term have come against Barnard Castle, Seaham, Sedgefield and Whitby, and a fifth on Saturday could see them climb as high as 8th heading into the final 3 rounds of the season. Asked about the significance of this weekend’s game, Elizabethans captain Danny Winter added: “This season has been a real test for every player in the squad. We have had some serious high and some serious lows but the team has stuck together throughout every part.”

“There are some pressures surrounding this Saturday’s game but it’s of paramount importance that the lads go out and play with a smile on their faces, no matter the result we stick together.”

Admission to Saturday’s 3pm kick off is free of charge for all spectators via the CrossBar, with the bar open from 12.30pm.