THACKLEY host Liversedge in the weekend's big Toolstation Northern Counties East League Premier Division derby with the clubs very much on an equal footing.

Sedge took just one point from the first 15 on offer this term, while the Dennyboys earned four from their first two games.

But turbulent times at Dennyfield, from the balance sheet through the dugout to the team sheet, have seen them fall from grace.

Thackley still boast a higher placing in the table than their neighbours but bragging rights are very much up for grabs.

Sedge are three places lower, trailing by four points but with two games in hand.

The Dennyboys are on the back of a confidence-boosting 5-0 win over Glasshoughton Welfare, while Sedge were beaten 4-0 in the FA Vase last time out.

Lowly Glasshoughton now host Albion Sports but the result is far from a forgone conclusion.

Albion are on a poor run of form, having taken just one point from the last 15 on offer and also exiting the FA Vase.

Kulwinder Sandhu's men have the chance of three points this weekend and must not fail to grasp the chance if they are to send out a statement to their rivals.

Albion are between Thackley and Liversedge in the table but would climb into the top eight if they were to win their two games in hand.

There are no such problems for Eccleshill United in Division One as they are a lofty third, although they suffered a shock defeat last time out and were denied a midweek chance to get back in action.

The Eagles lost 3-1 at Shirebrook Town last Saturday and should have hosted Dronfield Town on Wednesday but the game was postponed as the visitors had a Vase replay to attend to.

Eccleshill make the short journey to Leeds territory tomorrow to take on Yorkshire Amateur. They should beat their 16th-placed hosts on paper but the derby atmosphere will be sure to even things out.

Silsden are also flying high in the North West Counties League and could climb to third in the Premier Division with a win at Bootle.

The Cobbydalers suffered a defeat in Manchester against Maine Road in their last league game but have progressed in two cup competitions since then.

This weekend's Liverpool-based hosts are just three places behind but are five points worse off and have played a game more.