After a washout in midweek, the NCEL returns to action at the weekend with a full league programme that, hopefully, will not be affected by the weather.

In the Premier Division, the top three sides all face bottom-half opposition but they know it will still be a stern test for them.

Leaders Sheffield have, on paper at least, what looks the easiest task as they are at home to eighteenth-placed Thackley.

And Retford United, who are in third and have not lost in the League since mid-September, host the side two spots above Thackley, Arnold Town.

Second placed Mickleover Sports, meanwhile, are on their travels as they go to mid-table Liversedge.

There are two intriguing matches that pit teams from the top eight as Garforth Town, whose recent return to form has catapulted them to fourth, entertain the side three places below them, Hallam.

And, Maltby Main, in fifth, go to the team in eighth, Selby Town.

With only four points separating third and ninth, a victory could see any of those teams move quickly up the table.

Amongst them is Glapwell who could climb to third should they win at home to Glasshoughton Welfare and other results go their way.

At the other end of the table, bottom side Shirebrook Town are at home to Eccleshill United whilst their nearest rivals Brodsworth Welfare are at Carlton Town.

Sutton Town entertain Long Eaton United in a mid-table clash whilst Pickering Town, with new manager Mark Wood, go to Armthorpe Welfare.

It is bottom against top, meanwhile, in Division One as basement outfit Rossington Main, under new boss Ian Dring, entertain Parkgate.

Main who have lost their last eight are now six points adrift of the rest but it will be a tough task against their visitors who have won their last eight.

With second-placed Winterton Rangers not in action, that leaves the door open for two sides to replace them as Parkgate?s nearest challengers.

South Normanton Athletic are at home to Staveley Miners Welfare whilst Nostell Miners Welfare travel to Borrowash Victoria, both needing three points to overtake Rangers.

Sixth take on seventh at the Riverside Ground as Gedling Town take on Worsbrough Bridge whilst Lincoln Moorlands, in fifth, go to Hall Road Rangers.

Another mid-table clash sees Pontefract Collieries host Dinnington Town whilst AFC Emley go to Yorkshire Amateur and Teversal entertain Tadcaster Albion in the remaining games in Division One.