Hartlepool Rovers return to the New Friarage on Saturday as they welcome Redcar in what promises to be another competitive league encounter.

A big thank you to match day sponsors Qualitech Environmental Services Ltd for their continued support.

Rovers head into the match full of confidence after an impressive victory over Peterlee & Horden in atrocious weather conditions last weekend. The win maintained their perfect start to the season, with five wins from five matches, all achieved in convincing fashion.

The home side will be looking to make the most of home advantage, but know they will need to be at their very best against a capable Redcar outfit. The visitors currently sit in mid-table having recorded two wins from their opening five league fixtures. Narrow defeats to Billingham, Yarm and Acklam have been offset by victories over West and Sedgefield.

Rovers make a handful of changes to the side that travelled to Peterlee last week. In the pack, Gunn and Vincent come into the starting XV in place of O'Callaghan and Dean. Trimble starts at full-back, with Rochester moving into the centres, while Stephenson takes the scrum-half berth.

Promising young Colt Justin Owen drops down to the Heughers this weekend, where he will continue his development after an encouraging senior debut last week. Fellow youngster Paddy Roberts retains his place among the replacements alongside the returning Dixon and Jeffery.

Heughers v Seaton Carew
Saturday | KGV | 3.00pm Kick-off

The Heughers are also in action this weekend as they host local rivals Seaton Carew at KGV.

The second XV have endured a disrupted start to the season, with a number of fixtures lost due to opposition cancellations. When they have taken to the field, they have shown plenty of promise, opening their campaign with a comprehensive victory before suffering defeat against a strong Barnard Castle side.

A strong squad of more than 20 players is available for selection this weekend, providing plenty of competition for places. Seaton Carew will provide a stern test, but it is a challenge the Heughers are eagerly anticipating as they look to build momentum and continue their development.