Local battle between Mossley and 18th Newtownabbey

Discounting their Clarence Cup exit on penalties at Bangor Swifts, Mossley have only lost twice this season to 1c opposition – both times to neighbours 18th.

A few seasons ago, 18th’s only league defeat after Christmas was at Mossley, and their manager back is now Mossley boss Garry Campbell.

In 1b, Rathfern Rangers don’t have far to travel, down to Greencastle to meet Grove United, while also in 1b, Wellington entertain Colin Valley.

Rec’s last five, too, are on the road. On Saturday, there could be returns or David Harrison and Paul Matthews, but missing will be Christopher Morton and Josh McAllister. UUJ, whose fixture at second placed Newcastle was postponed, welcome 1b leaders Ballynahinch Olympic to the Factory Grounds. The Jordanstown side have slipped back to third bottom, but have games in hand. On Saturday, back should be Grant and Phil Gardiner, Kyle McDowell and Ryan McLoughlin, but missing will be Johnny Magennis, Ciaran McMullan, Rhys Cleland, Adam Dick, Anto Hughes, Kevin O’Neill and Mark Dean. Elsewhere Nortel will be without Kris Malone, Stuart Crawford and Adam Irwin, while there are injury doubts concerning Mark Wilkinson, Willie McMurdie and Wayne Lorrimer for the tough trip to Immaculata. Chris Monteith and Davy Freyne, however, could be back in the frame. In 1a, second bottom Barn will surely need maximum points against visitors Abbey Villa who are on the back of five successive league defeats. Basement side, Dromara Village, having won 2 of their last 3, host Larne Tech OB.