Stockton Town face Emley at Bishopton Road West, Stockton-on-Tees on Saturday, Oct 17 at 4:00 PM in a basement battle that neither side can afford to lose. Both clubs are deep in the relegation picture in the Northern Premier League, and defeat here could prove costly come the end of the season.

Stockton Town come into this fixture struggling badly (1W 3L in last 5). Emley travel out of form (0W 2L recently), which may hand the initiative to the hosts. Stockton Town won their last outing, while Emley suffered defeat — home advantage backed by momentum.

Verdict: Little separates these two on form or history. Home advantage could be the deciding factor — a narrow Stockton Town win or a draw looks most likely.