A preview of tonight's North East games

Click the match links for live updates:

(All games kick-off at 7:45pm unless stated)

NPOWER CHAMPIONSHIP

Huddersfield Town v Middlesbrough

Middlesbrough have won just seven points from a possible 30 in 2013. Despite their poor form, Tony Mowbray's side are just one point behind 6th placed Brighton. Last weekend's 2-1 win over league leaders Cardiff City has kept Boro's playoff ambitions alive.

Defensive pair Jonathan Woodgate (calf) and Andre Bikey (hamstring) will both miss the trip to West Yorkshire. As will midfielder Julio Arca, who has suffered a setback in his recovery from a toe injury. However, Newcastle United's on-loan striker Sammy Ameobi is expected to start after netting a debut goal in the win over Cardiff.

NPOWER LEAGUE ONE

Hartlepool United v Colchester United

With Colchester just eight points ahead of relegation threatened Hartlepool, John Hughes' side need a result at Victoria Park this evening. If Pools can win the gap would be reduced to just five points, making the prospect of avoiding the drop a real possibility.

Midfielder Simon Walton faces a late fitness test ahead of this match and could be available. Striker Anthony Sweeney (knee) is expected is miss out.

BLUE SQUARE BET PREMIER

Gateshead v Kidderminster Harriers

The ongoing pitch problems at the International Stadium have forced Gateshead to seek an alternative venue for this match against Kidderminster. Tonight's game will be played at Bootham Crescent - the home of York City.

The form guide shows the odds are against Gateshead. The Heed have lost six of their last seven league games. In contrast, Kidderminster have won seven in a row to move level on points with table-topping Wrexham.