Guiseley head north in the UniBond League Premier Division on Saturday for what should be a certain three points against the club propping up the table.

Lions boss Steve Kittrick takes nothing for granted, however, and is not shouting from the rooftops ahead of the journey.

But this is not a case of a side being at the foot of the table merely down to the odd bad performance or refereeing decision.

Durham City have had serious problems and are yet to register a single point from their 13 starts since winning promotion last season. Their goal difference is minus 53 from those 13 straight defeats.

The Lions have had a poor start by their own high standards after ending the last campaign as beaten play-off semi-finalists. They are currently ninth but the division is highly competitive this term.

Kittrick’s side have lost four of their 11 starts and leaders Ashton United have tasted defeat on the same number of occasions.

Near-neighbours Park Avenue rest in 16th place and they have also lost four times. Stocksbridge, who Avenue visit on Saturday, are three places above Guiseley but have lost six games already.

It is a ridiculously tight division, which makes predictions impossible. However, if the Lions do not return with three points there will be questions asked.

Kittrick has no fresh injury worries after last Saturday’s regulation 3-0 win at Cammell Laird in the FA Trophy and a free midweek.

Skipper Jeremy Fitzgerald is still missing but his ankle injury is responding to treatment. He will be sidelined for a few weeks, as will striker Adam Muller, who is on the comeback trail following a broken wrist.