Football fans across the North East of England have plenty to look forward to this weekend — from grassroots league action to National League North clashes and Premier League drama involving a local club. With winter weather impacting some fixtures, this guide highlights the most important matches happening near you and what to expect.
🏆 National League North — Key Local Fixtures
One of the main local stories this weekend is National League North action, where traditional clubs from the North East and surrounding regions take to the field.
📅 Saturday 3 January 2026
Darlington vs Macclesfield FC — National League North
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Darlington FC host Macclesfield FC at Blackwell Meadows on Saturday afternoon.
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This is a key league match as the Quakers aim to start 2026 with momentum after recent competitive outings. Northern Football League+1
📌 Other National League North Fixtures
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Buxton vs South Shields – a local interest clash involving South Shields.
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Chester FC vs Worksop — another competitive fixture in the division. Sky Sports
⚠️ Note: Some matches may be affected by wintry weather and pitch conditions, so always check club or league updates before travelling. Higher-tier grounds often have better frost protection than grassroots pitches. The Sun
🔵 Northern Football League & Non-League Action
Lower-tier football is in full swing this weekend with several scheduled local fixtures in the Northern Football League:
🗓 Saturday 3 January 2026
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Shildon vs West Allotment Celtic — local league clash.
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Kendal Town vs Carlisle City — an inter-regional non-league fixture.
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Several other Northern League Division 1 and 2 matches were scheduled but many are postponed due to frost or poor pitch conditions. Northern Football League
These grassroots games are great opportunities to support community clubs and experience local football culture.
🏟 Premier League: Sunderland’s Big Weekend
While Sunderland AFC are part of the Premier League, their high-profile match away isn’t hosted in the North East, but it remains one of the biggest fixtures of the weekend for regional fans:
🌟 Tottenham Hotspur vs Sunderland
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Sunderland travel to Spurs in the Premier League on Sunday, 4 January 2026.
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A technically demanding clash as both sides seek valuable points in the top flight. Cartilage Free Captain
This match is a must-watch for North East supporters and carries significant points importance as Sunderland aim to build on their league position.
❄️ Weather Impact — Winter Disruption
Across the UK, cold weather and frozen pitches are affecting lower-league and non-league fixtures this weekend. National League games and grassroots leagues have seen postponements due to unplayable surfaces. The Sun+1
⚠️ What This Means for Fans
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Always check with clubs or league websites ahead of kick-off for updated fixture status.
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Higher-tier clubs (like Sunderland) usually have pitch heating and are less likely to be postponed.
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Non-league clubs often play on exposed grounds where frost can force cancellations.
📍Top Matches to Watch This Weekend
| Competition | Fixture | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Premier League | Tottenham vs Sunderland | Sunday’s Premier League battle |
| National League North | Darlington vs Macclesfield FC | Saturday local league fixture |
| National League North | Buxton vs South Shields | Local interest fixture |
| Northern Football League | Shildon vs West Allotment Celtic | Lower-tier action |
📅 Final Tips for Visiting Fans
✅ Arrive early and check travel due to winter weather.
✅ Confirm fixture status with official club channels.
✅ Dress warm — UK winter football can be chilly!
✅ Engage with community clubs — local football is thriving across the North East.
Football in the North East this weekend has something for all fans, from grassroots passion to Premier League excitement. Whether you’re cheering on Sunderland in London or heading to Blackwell Meadows to watch Darlington, this weekend’s fixtures promise drama, skill and community spirit. ⚽