It's a tournament that only generally exists when Newcastle are struggling and Middlesbrough or as in years gone by Sunderland are doing better than the Magpies.
Yes that's it, the North-East top dogs contest.
Sunderland couldn't enter this year because they are in the Championship while Boro go into the game just behind them.
Victory for Boro takes them into the number 1 slot, defeat could see off their challenge for another season.
However, tomorrow is more about Newcastle getting three points for their own cause not to shut the side from down the A19 up.
United must win to keep their hopes of European qualification alive in the Premiership with even a place in the Intertoto Cup now beginning to drift away a little bit.
There would be no better way to get back on track than by beating Boro at home of course but the Teessiders arrive here, with Jonathan Woodgate on board, to prove a point as usual.
Yet just three wins out of 21 derby attempts in the Premiership for United make it somewhat appealing to the eye in past years.
And if Newcastle can show a bit more of a killer touch in front of goal at times when they are on top, unlike the clash at Wigan last weekend, then three points could be once again on the menu.
And while we are on it, just remind me which set of fans will be watching The Bill on Thursday night while AZ Alkmaar are in Toon?
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