Ponteland United sub Harry Tulip has a great knack of finding the net at vital moments – and he didn’t disappoint with a winner that put Pont top of the Premier Division on goal difference.

Tulip raced through and drilled confidently into the net.in the 77th minute of a thrilling seven goal encounter with basement side Murton.

Karl Garside shot Murton ahead from the penalty spot in the tenth minute and just sixty seconds later Gavin Nesbitt raced fired over the stranded keeper into the roof of the net from 20 yards for number two.

Andrew Davidson volleyed in to pull one back but Murton, who have impressed in recent weeks, saw Paul Wintrip tuck away a third.

Pont didn’t hit the panic button and Glen Ford thumped the woodwork before John Dunn’s back post header got them back in it. Five minutes before the break Richard Kent equalised from a Davidson cross.

Davidson winced as Murton keeper Aiden Vout saved his second half penalty but Tulip spared his blushes with the winner.

Alnwick Town’s unbeaten run is now up to 17 games but they lost a bit of ground as they were held to a 2-2 draw by third-placed Carlisle City.

Tom Vickers took just two minutes to open the scoring for Town but City’s Steven Rooke fired home just two minutes later. With both sides playing attractive football, Gary Patterson’s 24th minute goal put Alnwick back in front and Carl Murphy levelled after the break.

Reigning Champions Harraby almost opened the scoring against Shankhouse when Sergio Royo’s in-swinging corner from the right was headed off the line, but they were celebrating the first when Daniel Balmer cut in to strike a low drive from the corner of the box through the crowded area and into the far corner of the net on 38 minutes.

Harraby doubled their lead two minutes later when a delightful Royo pass sent Ryan Errington clear through the middle to lob over Martin Coleman into the net from 20 yards to give the home side a deserved two goal lead at the break.

Coleman made fantastic saves to keep out Errington, Balmer, Brett Swift and Archibald while Simon Tucker beat the keeper but the ball smashed back off the post.

Shankhouse’s Chris Rue flashed a volley across goal across goal and wide before a moment of madness in the Harraby defence gifted them a lifeline.

Michael Bell capitalised and shot gleefully into the empty net when a harmless looking long ball forward causing a mix - up and Shankhouse almost squared things up when the unmarked Anthony Moran powered three-yard downward header that Jordan English saved superbly.

They did equalise with five minutes to go as a corner was only cleared to the edge of the box where Daniel Chambers hit a stunning half volley into the top corner of the net.

Stocksfield’s Wayne Stewart shot them in front at Percy Main Amateurs but sub Michael Bowman went around the keeper and fired into the empty net to level and it also finished all-square at Gateshead Rutherford who had David Loughlin and Joseph Hindmarsh on target while Stephen Howes and Paul Hodge replied for Seaton Delaval Amateurs.

Kevin Grahamslaw and Craig Harley’s fired in after the break for Killingworth Sporting as they took the points at Ashington Colliers and Cramlington Town raced into a two-goal first half lead at Blyth Town with efforts from Dan Neary and Kieran Parsons.

But when they were reduced to ten men just after the break, Blyth took full advantage with Jonny Mann, Tom Haigh, Jeff Fuller and Neil Blades hitting the net.

Heaton Stannington were also reduced to ten men in the NFA Senior Benevolent Bowl as Walker Central won a physical affair 2-0 with goals from Grant Kershaw and Ryan Monaghan.

Goals from Ian Lee, Dean Porter, Darren Reay and Gav Hattrick put Whitley Bay A into the final of the Northumberland FA Minor Cup as the Seahorses cruised past fellow Division One side Forest Hall.

Tyneside Amateur League Division Two’s Blyth Isabella put the skids on an all-Alliance final with a surprise 1-0 victory at Gosforth Bohemian the other semi.

Hebburn Reyrolle thumped six past North Shields Athletic as they maintained top spot in Division One with Channon North grabbing two and Dan Gray, Ray Oshin, Peter Bryson and Dan Mattews the others while James Cowx and Dean Bolam were on the scoresheet for Athletic.

Josh Hay was the hat-trick hero for Amble United as they thumped Berwick United Ultras 5-0. Hay struck the opener in the 15th minute and Ross Gair made it two after the break. The wheels fell off for Berwick in the last ten minutes as Hay added two more and Stephen Gibbard the fifth.

Wallington’s Justin Milligan (2), Jordan Nellis and Mark Jewitt were on target in an emphatic 4-1 derby win at Morpeth Sports Club and Heddon’s Jordan Carling and Steven Sattersthwaite netted in a 2-1 win over Stobswood Welfare. David King got the consolation.

Cullercoats’ Dave Fairless, Stuart Wright and Graham Allen were their marksmen in a 3-0 win over South Shields United, while Kurran Dhugga scored for Newcastle University in a 1-1 draw with Peterlee Town

Newcastle Chemfica Independent’s scorers were Phil Bone, Steve McLaughlin, Alex Tooley and Gareth Davies as they won 4-2 at Swalwell to go top of Division Two.

Mark Fitzpatrick and David Fitzpatrick replied for Swalwell.

Goals from Ryan Arnott and Gary Hall were not enough for Wallsend Town as they went down 3-2 at home to Seaton Burn while Simonside SC were victorious a nine-goal thriller at home to Willington Quay Saints.
Steven Graham hit two with Sean Flood, Ben Cooper and Kyle Riley all getting in on the act while Glen Johnson and Mark Henderson both scored doubles for Willington in a tremendous game.
Tynemouth United’s Lee Garwood netted twice and Aaron Chambers added the other as they won 3-0 at Cullercoats CP while Wallsend Boys Club’s Gary Shaw and Chris Murphy scored in their 2-0 win over struggling Cramlington United. Boys Club also hit the woodwork six times.

Neil Tiffin netted from the penalty spot for Hexham against Whitley Bay Town but they were pegged back when Mattie Guthrie levelled after the break and Red House Farm thumped basement side Wideopen & District 5-1.
Northbank cruised into the semi-finals of the Cumberland Senior Cup with goals from Luke Barwick and Andy Rogerson (2) as they saw off Eden Thistle, who had caused a major shock in dumping out Harraby in the previous round.

Jon Tait

There was drama at both ends of the Premier League table on a day when the goals were raining in.

Cramlington Town got themselves off the foot of the table with a 6-1 demolition of Stocksfield while leaders Alnwick Town scored three goals in the final ten minutes to salvage an unlikely point at Killingworth Sporting.

Stocksfield were looking to move further clear of the relegation zone and got off to a good start as Steve Foster shot them ahead in the 20th minute.

But Cristen Priest fired in the equaliser from 20 yards and Chris Bond took advantage of a goalmouth scramble to net number two from close range.

Dan Nearey turned and hit a low shot into the corner of the net for the third before Bond was again on target for the fourth.

Town were in dreamland when Kieran Parsons followed up his own parried shot to make it five and Kevin Long cut in from the right wing and placed the ball in the far corner to complete the devastation.

Alnwick Town were left shell-shocked as goals from Paul Dunn and Jorge Vollabio put Killingworth 2-0 up within four minutes of the kick-off.

Although Ben Keenan pulled one back in the 15th minute with a penalty, a deflected shot from Dunn and a Jay McAnespie goal in the 76th minute put them 4-1 down and their unbeaten record looked as though it was about to be smashed.

However, late goals from Chris Moffat, Gary Bailes and Scott McMullan completed an amazing comeback.

But Ponteland United are now just two points behind Town in second spot as they recorded a 4-0 win at Shankhouse with Andrew Davidson, Gavin Wood an own-goal and Sean Willis the scorers. Shankhouse had a player dismissed at 2-0.

Carlisle City recovered from Kevin Hay’s headed opener for Gateshead Rutherford as they came back to win 3-2.

Olly Driver (2) and a Karl Murphy penalty put the Cumbrians in charge, while David Loughlin added a second for Rutherford late on.

Blyth Town blooded two youngsters who have made the move up from their Junior set-up and they impressed in the 2-0 success over Percy Main Amateurs.

Jack Donnison was superb throughout and his old youth team mate Kyle Devlin looked promising as he came on from the bench as goals from Chris Lyle (55) and Dan Beresford (80) settled it and Murton slumped to the bottom of the table as they went down 1-0 at home to Seaton Delaval Amateurs, Steve Addison’s fifth minute strike proving the only goal of the game.

Ashington Colliers sent Wark crashing out the Kicks Leisure George Dobbins League Cup with a stunning 7-4 victory.

Gareth Bainbridge netted a hat-trick for the Colliers with Simon Cunningham (2) Paul Dunn and Joe Moscrop were all on target for Ashington with Wark’s replies coming from Tony Lancaster (3) and Thomas McAlindon.
In Division One, goals from Chris Moffat, Ben Haddick and Paul Thompson kept Heddon in third spot as they won 3-1 at Newcastle East End. Derek Lowson was on target for East End.
Berwick United Ultras are up to fifth after a 3-1 victory over Cullercoats.

Stuart Wright, Kieran Lafferty and Martin Cornish hit the net for the Borderers with Craig Deighton on the scoresheet for the visitors while Newcastle University’s George Coyle scored the only goal of the game as they took the three points from a closely-contested game at Wallington.

Forest Hall were sent crashing out of the Pin Point Recruitment Charity Cup after extra time by Second Division Simonside SC.

Alan Kelly scored for Forest Hall and Shaun Edwards netted for Simonside as the game ended 1-1 after 90 minutes. Craig Lumley and Ben Cooper scored the extra-time goals that put Simonside into the third round.

Gosforth Bohemian went through as they beat Division Two’s Swalwell 4-0. Ian Harris scored a hat-trick and Pete Gasden added the other.

Wallsend Town’s Gary Hall netted a double as they beat Tynemouth United 3-3 to stay on top of Division Two.

Hall had Sean Reid scored to put Town in control, but Steve Matthew fired in two penalties to level things up for United, who were reduced to ten men. Hall grabbed a last minute winner.

Goals from Steve McLaughlin and Gareth Davies gave Newcastle Chemfica Independent a 2-0 win at Northbank while Wallsend Boys Club were beaten 3-2 at home to Red House Farm.

Goals from Shaun Forster, Robert Nolan and Martin Soulsby put Red House 3-0 up at the break and although Boys Club hit back with a Gaz Shaw double, it just wasn’t enough.

Matty Guthrie’s 65th minute saw Whitley Bay Town beat Cramlington United and bottom side Wideopen & District went down 2-1 at home to Cullercoats Custom Planet. Mark Grant scored for Wideopen, but replies from Mark Wilkinson and G. Hall saw them slump to their tenth defeat of the season.

Stuart Taylor, Sean Barker and Ian Armstrong scored for Seaton Burn in a 3-1 win at Willington Quay Saints with Gareth Pugh on target for the consolation.

Jon Tait

Andrew Davidson netted a double in a 4-1 over Murton that moved Ponteland United back to within four points of Premier leaders Alnwick Town.

Davidson opened his account in the first minute with a superb 25-yard chip and although Gavin Nesbitt levelled for the struggling second-bottom vistors in the 35th minute, Davidson was handily placed to shoot the black and whites back in front on the hour.

Further goals from John Dunn on 65 and Sean Willis on 75 kept up the pressure on Alnwick at the top.

Reigning Champions Harraby CC are up to fourth after a 5-1 demolition of sixth-placed Blyth Town.

Sergio Royo lashed in a low shot from 20 yards for the opener in the 18th minute and although Blyth got themselves back into it in the 33rd minute when Thomas Haigh hit a low shot inside the post, it took just four minutes for Harraby to hit back as Marc Shiel looped in a header.

An unlucky Town defender slid to poke a Dan Balmer cross into his own net just before half time and Shiel side-footed in number four from 10 yards in the 74th minute.
New Harraby signing Ryan Errington was sent tumbling in the box in stoppage time and Mike Swift stepped up to smash the spot kick into the roof of the net.

The result takes Harraby to within two points of local rivals Carlisle City in third, and they were left kicking themselves as they went down 3-1 at Seaton Delaval Amateurs. Robbie Kilgour shot the Cumbrians ahead in the 25th minute but Delaval’s Michael Fenwick equalised in the 59th minute. Fenwick scored his second ten minutes later and Craig Johnson added the third in the 83rd minute. Both sides finished the game with ten men as Delaval’s Jordan Fry and City’s Gareth Hollins were sent off.

Premier Division Stocksfield eased into the semi finals of the Pin Point Recruitment Charity Cup with a 4-0 success over Second Division Cullercoats Custom Planet.
Although the visitors hit the woodwork early on, Steve Forster’s 26th minute volley put Stocksfield in charge.

Jamie Sharkey fired into the net from close range and Foster’s deflected shot effectively killed off the tie right on half time, with sub Eddie Brazier adding number four in the 69th minute.
In the only league game from both Divisions One and Two to beat the weather, Morpeth Sports Club’s Jonathon Harland was on target in a 1-1 draw with Peterlee Town.

Gavin Hattrick’s goal put Whitley Bay A into the semi finals of the Northumberland FA Minor Cup as they beat Blyth Spartans A 1-0. The Seahorses will now face fellow Division One side Forest Hall for a place in the final while Gosforth Bohemian have been drawn at home to Blyth Isabella in the other semi.

Mark Fitzpatrick and Joe Johnson hit two each for Swalwall as they beat Whitley Bay Town 4-1 to go into the Pin Point Recruitment Amateur Cup final. Paulo Black grabbed Town’s consolation.
The weather decimated the rest of the fixtures list with officials squelching through pools of water to call off a total of seventeen Northern Alliance fixtures.

Jon Tait

Alnwick Town moved seven points clear at the top of the Premier League with a 3-1 win at struggling Murton.
Tom Vickers shot Town ahead in the tenth minute and although Murton levelled through a Karl Garside penalty on the half hour, there was no looking back for the black and whites as Chris Moffat and Gary Patterson netted the others.
Second-placed Ponteland United’s title hopes suffered a set-back as they went down 3-1 at third-placed Carlisle City.
Dean Gate finished a left wing cross from 12 yards to put them ahead in the 20th minute of a first half that saw them on top.
But Pont keeper Gareth Powell bundled an in-swinging Tom Lucock corner into his own net under heavy pressure for the equaliser two minutes after half-time and Jamie Heath netted from another Lucock cross to make it 2-1 in the 63rd minute. Carl Murphy combined with Steve Skinner before drilling in the third in the 72nd minute.
Malcolm Morien’s curling free-kick gave Percy Main the lead at Harraby CC, but the Cumbrians levelled six minutes later as Mark Shiel struck.
Dan Balmer tapped in from 4 yards for number two in the 31st minute and he added his second in the 83rd to give Harraby a 3-1 victory and move them up to fourth.
Chris Douglas scored with a late penalty into the net as Gateshead Rutherford drew 2-2 at Stocksfield.
With both sides keen to pull clear of the relegation zone, it was Stocksfield that struck first through Steve Foster a minute before half time.
John Dewhurst equalised a couple of minutes after the break, but Stocksfield regained the advantage through a disputed Wayne Stewart penalty on the hour. There were more protests when Rutherford were awarded the spot-kick that Douglas tucked away in the 80th minute and the home side finished with ten men as Scott Johnstone was given an early bath.
First Division leaders Hebburn Reyrolle had Ray Oshin, Craig Watson and a Michael Younger on target in a 4-1 at Coundon & Leaholm Youth that put them into the Final of the Durham FA Trophy.
In Division One, Daniel Robinson grabbed an injury-time winner for Heddon as they came from behind to beat Cullercoats 2-1.
Stuart Wright struck the opener for the visitors in the 25th minute, but Mark Hope equalised in the 33rd minute.
There were only seconds remaining when Robinson beat three defenders and rounded the goalkeeper to tuck the winner into the empty net.
The result saw Heddon leapfrog Cullercoats up to third while Jonathon Hartland’s two goals couldn’t prevent Morpeth SC going down 3-2 at home to North Shields Athletic and bottom side Forest Hall were also beaten 3-2 at home by Newcastle Uni.
Joel Murray and Michael Sandberg were on target for improving Forest Hall, but they are yet to take a point in the league and counters from Benjamin Burt (2) and Daniel Clements won it for the Students.
Tony Adlandey and Gareth Allen scored for South Shields United as they beat Second Division Northbank 2-0 in the Pin Point Recruitment Charity Cup.
The rain was the only winner as the rest of the fixture list was decimated by the weather and there was also disappointment as Second Division basement side Newcastle BT tended their resignation from the Northern Alliance.

Jon Tait

Alnwick Town packed their trophy cabinet in the 1960s and early 70s with a bumper haul of eight Northern Alliance Championships.
But the silverware had been gathering a bit of dust until the St. James’s Park outfit lifted the Northumberland FA Senior Benevolent Bowl last season.
And they may be reaching for the Brasso again come the summer as a Tom Vickers double at Carlisle City saw them move four points clear at the top of the Premier League.
Vickers hit the opener in under sixty seconds at third-placed City and Tom Brown added a second just before the break.
Mark Graham pulled one back for the Sky Blues in the 54th minute, but Vickers netted number three in the 66th minute.
Steven Rooke netted a second for City in injury time but Alnwick took the points and are now 12 points clear of third-placed City with a game in hand.
Gateshead Rutherford claimed three important points in their fight against relegation with a comfortable 3-0 win against bottom of the table Cramlington Town. Isaac Mitchell put the home side ahead on 15 minutes after Kevin Hay’s header was saved and Craig Horsfall fired home from the edge of the box to double the lead midway through the first half.
Although Town battled gamely in the second, it came as no surprise when Rutherford added a third as sub Eddie Keenan recorded his first goal for the club on 73 minutes after good work from Marcus Helson and John Dewhurst.
Murton slipped deeper into relegation trouble as they went down 3-1 at Wark. Matthew McLaughlin, Dale Telfer and Matthew Blackett were on target with Carl Garside netting the reply.
Seaton Delaval Amateurs needed a penalty shoot out to see off First Division Newcastle University in the quarter finals of the Northumberland FA Senior Benevolent Bowl.
The match ended all-square at 2-2 after 90 minutes with Michael Robinson and Craig Johnson scoring for Delaval and George Coyle and John Addy netting for the Students. Delaval keeper Dave Herrington saved two spot-kicks in the shoot-out as Delaval won 3-0.
The Ashington Colliers goal took a battering from Blyth Town, but they went into the last four thanks to Mark Pattie’s early goal and Percy Main Amateurs joined them as Tony Browell’s 76th minute header was the knock out blow for Ponteland United.
Hebburn Reyrolle moved six points clear at the top of Division One as Alan Pegram netted a 74th minute winner at Amble United. Shannon Forth’s 30th minute opener for Mark Collingwood’s unbeaten side was cancelled out by United’s Lee Harker.
Rob Watson and Garth Armstrong were on target for Cullercoats in their 2-0 victory over Peterlee while Heddon had Daniel Robinson, Mark Hope, Kevin Irwin and Jason Pearson on the scoresheet in a 4-0 win at North Shields Athletic.
Morpeth Sporting Club were trailing Newcastle East End 1-0 at half time but Scott Bowman hit four, Jonathon Harland two and Graeme Carter got in on the act as they ran out 7-2 victors and moved away from the relegation zone.
Bottom side Forest Hall went into the semi finals of the Northumberland FA Minor Cup as they beat fellow First Division strugglers Stobswood Welfare 3-1 after extra time. Matthew Smith, Michael Reay and Darren Henderson scored.
Gosforth Bohemians striker Josh Gow netted twice and Matty Atkin added the other in a good 3-1 win over Bedlington Terriers reserves but Division Two leaders Newcastle Chemfica Independent were left red-faced as they suffered a Cup shock, going out 4-2 at Blyth Isabella after goals from Michael Harrison and Alex Tooley had seemingly put them in control.
First Division Whitley Bay A had Sean Jobson, Alex Redfearn, Darren Reay, Marc Nicholson and Gav Hathrick on the scoresheet as they beat Tynemouth United 5-2 to go into the Minor Cup quarter finals. Lee Garwood and Steven Matthews scored for United. South Shields United crashed out of the Durham FA Minor Cup 3-2 at home to Sunderland Thorney Close Inn.
Shaun Edwards’ first half goal was cancelled out by Swalwell’s Chris Smith in the 84th minute at the top of Division Two while Dan Haggerston scored twice for Cullercoats Custom Planet as they beat Red House Farm 2-1. Lee Johnson netted the consolation.
Nicky Hara’s 88th minute strike wasn’t enough for Seaton Burn as they went down 2-1 at home to Whitley Bay Town, while Willington Quay Saints’ Mark Henderson hit a double in their 2-1 win over Hexham. Liam Heenan netted for the Tynedalers.

Jon Tait

A heavy overnight frost played havoc with the Northern Alliance fixtures programme, leaving a number of pitches rock hard and unplayable.
Amble United were knocked out of the Kicks Leisure George Dobbins League Cup third round as they went down 3-2 at home to Percy Main Amateurs.
Ross Gair and Josh Hay netted for United but goals from Pierre-Luc Coiffait, Tony Browell and Steven Shadforth saw the Premier League outfit through.
Simon Cunningham shot Ashington Colliers ahead in the 60th minute and Michael Hogg added two more in the 65th and 78th minute as they beat Division One Newcastle University 3-1 in the same competition. Dave Kewn hit a late consolation.
The all-Premier League clash between Shankhouse and Walker Central was a fairly even affair, with Central netting two late goals to take it 3-1.
Grant Kershaw hit a 13th minute opener for Central but Shankhouse hit back through Michael Bell. Central’s Nabby Benny scored a decisive second in the 76th minute and Paul Chapman sealed the victory in the 89th minute to put Central in the hat for the fourth round draw..
Only one game went ahead in the Premier League, with Killingworth Sporting winning 4-0 at bottom side Cramlington Town.
Anthony Grahamslaw fired in two penalties, in the 3rd and 50th minutes while Simon Patterson made it three in the 70th minute and Craig Hartley added number four with ten minutes to go.
Leaders Alnwick Town’s fixture at Murton was postponed, as was the top four clash between Ponteland United and Heaton Stannington and Wark’s game with Seaton Delaval.
Gateshead Rutherford v. Harraby CC, Carlisle City v. Blyth Town and Stocksfield’s Pin Point Recruitment Charity Cup second round game with Second Division Cullercoats Custom Planet were all further victims of the weather.
It was the same story in Division One as with the games hit hard by the freezing conditions. The matches at Cullercoats and Heddon, where they faced Peterlee Town and Wallington respectively, were off, as was South Shields United’s ill-fated Durham FA Minor Cup clash against Sunderland Thorney Close Inn and Whitley Bay A’s visit to Second Division Tynemouth United.
The Pin Point recruitment Charity Cup second round games featuring Forest Hall and Simonside SC and Gosforth Bohemians and Swalwell were also victims of rock-hard pitches.
But Stobswood Welfare striker Adam Shanks will be pleased that their game gotr the go-ahead as he scored four in a 7-0 drubbing of Morpeth Social Club.
Chris Glass, Dave King and Kevin Bell joined Shanks on the scoresheet as Welfare moved to within a point of Morpeth, though they remain second bottom of the table.
Newcastle East End were also high-scorers with a 6-0 demolition of North Shields Athletic.
Craig Pleasant hit two in the romp with Sean Graham, Wes Richardson, Lee Stephenson and Richy Hoggins all getting in on the act, while leaders Hebburn Reyrolle continued their unbeaten run as they drew 2-2 with Berwick United Ultras.
Newcastle Chemfica Independent’s 4-2 win over Wallsend Town put them top of the table. Steve McLoughlin scored twice and he was joined on the scoresheet by Martin Dixon and Phillip Bone. Dekka Graham and an unfortunate Paul Brown own goal were Wallsend’s scorers.
Basement side Newcastle BTs were beaten 2-1 at Whitley Bay Town where Jed Findlay struck twice. Greg Palmer scored for BT.
Goals in each half from Chris Baker and Dave Hewitt sealed a 2-0 win for Seaton Burn at Cramlington United while Andrew McBeth, Glen Gallon and Noel Clynch were on target for Willington Quay Saints in a 5-3 home reverse to Red House Farm. The games at Hexham v. Wallsend Boys Club and Wideopen & District v. Northbank were both off.

Jon Tait

Northumberland FA Minor Cup/ Durham FA Minor Cup

First Division Whitley Bay A went into the fourth round of the Northumberland FA Minor Cup as beat Second Division Hexham 5-0, and there were further County Cup successes for Gosforth Bohemians and Stobswood Welfare.
Bohemians hit a late winner in a 2-1 success at Second Division Seaton Burn, who had Ian Armstrong on target from the penalty spot and Adam Shanks hit a hat-trick for the Welfare in their 6-1 thumping of Blyth Town Reserves. Chris Glass (2) and Robert Baker got the others.
Morpeth Sporting Club were left red-faced as they were held 2-2 at North Northumberland League Bedlington Terriers Reserves before crashing out 4-3 on penalties.
South Shields United’s Durham FA Minor Cup second round clash with Sunderland Thorney Close Inn was postponed and Murton were dumped out of the Durham FA trophy 2-1 at home by Coundon & Leaholm Youth, who now meet First Division Hebburn Reyrolle in the semi finals of the competition.

Kicks Leisure Cup Semi Finals

Alnwick Town are in the Kicks Leisure Cup Final as they beat Blyth Town 3-2.
Dale Kennedy gave Alnwick an early lead but Jeffrey Fuller equalised soon after.
Neil Catlow made it 2-1 but Blyth levelled through Craig Hopwood.
Tom Vickers struck the winner late on from the penalty spot.
Town will meet Seaton Delaval Amateurs in the Final.
Michael Fenwick shot them ahead in their clash with Percy Main Amateurs but Graham Smith levelled. With neither side able to produce a winner, Delaval won a thrilling penalty shoot-out 4-3.

Pin Point Recruitment Combination Cup

Last season’s runners-up Hebburn Reyrolle knocked Amble United out with a 2-1 win.
Channon North and Ray Oshin scored either side of half time and despite all Amble’s late pressure, they couldn’t force the issue and Lee Harker’s late goal was no more than a consolation.
Newcastle Uni beat Forest Hall 3-0 as Andrew Hartley struck twice for the students and Daniel Clements added the third after the break.

Pin Point Recruitment Amateur Cup

Wallsend Town capitalised on a goalkeeping blunder as they beat Wallsend Boys Club 1-0.
Boys Club missed some great chances, including a penalty after just five minutes, as they crashed out while Swalwell went into the last four with a 6-1 win at Wideopen.
Mark Fitzpatrick (2), Adam McVicker (2), Chris Smith and Joe Johnson scored after Charlie Noble had shot Wideopen ahead.

Premier Division

Ponteland United trail Alnwick Town by just a point at the top of the table after beating Shankhouse 2-0 in a close encounter.
Andrew Davison broke the deadlock in the 68th minute and Harry Tulip sealed the victory in the 87th minute..
Carlisle City’s Mark Graham scored the only goal of the game as they moved up into third spot with a narrow victory over basement side Cramlington Town and Killingworth Sporting were beaten by an injury time header from Gateshead Rutherford’s Andrew Reay.
Marc Pattie struck twice as Ashington Colliers won 3-0 at Stocksfield. Michael Hogg netted the other but was sent off later on.
Walker Central beat Wark 7-2 and had Nabby Benny (2), John Robson, Liam Mulligan, Grant Kershaw, Ben Taylor and Abbubaker Sallinon target.. Wark’s replies came from Tony Lancaster and a Paddy MacAlindon penalty.

Division One

Newcastle East End suffered a heavy 7-2 home defeat at the hands of Cullercoats.
Graeme Allen, Craig Deighton and David Fairless all hit two apiece while sub Steven Hart added the other. Lee Halpin and Derek Lowson scored for East End.
Jamie Punton, Craig Heugh, Stewart Wright and John Dryden scored for Berwick United Ultras as they beat Peterlee Town 4-3 and Heddon were 4-1 victors over North Shields Athletic.
Dan Robinson, John Pearson and Kevin Urwin (2) were Heddon’s marksmen while Steven Ardley scored Athletic’s consolation.

Division Two

The goals were flying in in Division Two.
Tynemouth United went joint-top of the table after a 6-2 drubbing of Willington Quay SaintsLee Garwood scored a hat-trick with Michael Armstrong, Darren Turnbull and Scott Rowan also on target.
Simonside SC thrashed Cullercoats CP 7-0 with Ricky Brown, Steven Pearce, Kyle Rylie, Ben Cooper and Greg Wylie all on the score sheet while Sean Edwards added a classy double.
Red House Farm thumped bottom side Newcastle BT 7-0. Rob Nolan netted a hat-trick while his team-mate Liam Brown got two. Martin Soulsby and Aaron Lewis added the others.
Paul Fiddler, Scott Thompson and Andrew Rogerson scored for Northbank as they beat Whitley Bay Town 3-0.

Jon Tait

By Bill Gardner
A complete wipe-out of the Northern Alliance programme left fixture secretaries Geoff Mason and George Davison increasingly frustrated. They had been hoping to get a few cup competition loose ends tied up before the looming Christmas break but those plans have been thwarted by the big freeze which shows no sign of easing.

The third round of the Northumberland Minor Cup, scheduled for this weekend wont help matters when fourteen of the leagues clubs will be tied up by county cup duties. The relevant Minor Cup pairings are: Lynemouth Institute v Gosforth Bohemians;

Morpeth Sporting Club v North Shields Athletic; Newcastle Chemfica v Blakelaw Club;

Red House Farm v Stobswood Welfare; Seaton Burn v Newcastle Diggers United;

Walbottle Original Masons v Tynemouth United; Wallington v Forest Hall;

Wallsend Boys Club v Cullercoats and Whitley Bay A v Hexham.

The crucial casualties of yesterdays weather were four third round ties in the Kicks Leisure George Dobbins League Cup: Amble United v Percy Main, Ashington Colliers v Newcastle University, Shankhouse v Walker Central and Whitley Bay A v Harraby Catholic Club. These may need to be quickly rescheduled but Whitley Bays involvement in the NFA Minor Cup is likely to lead to complications in rearranging their tie against the Cumbrians.

Going into December, Alnwick Town are still enjoying a seven-point lead at the top of the Premier Division table and if the Northumbrians have any ambitions to rejoin the Northern League things are looking bright at the moment.

The Town are boasting the only surviving unbeaten record in the Alliances top flight while retaining an interest in the League Cup and Challenge Cup. Theyve reached the quarter-finals in the League Cup and the semi-finals of the Challenge Cup. And in their nineteen games played so far this season Alnwick have lost only once, going down 1-0 against Heaton Stannington in the NFA Senior Bowl at the beginning of October.

With a game in hand second-placed Ponteland United are still Alnwicks most potent rivals in the title race and Jarrod Suddicks side had won three league games on the trot before this weekends freeze-up, recording three defensive clean sheets in the process. When they met up with leaders Alnwick on the opening day of this season the result at the Leisure Centre Ground was a 2-2 draw and its still certainly all to play for. And apart from the championship, United only have one other remaining silverware target in their sights. Theyve been drawn away to Percy Main in Februarys Northumberland FA Senior Bowl quarter-finals when the other pairings will be: Blyth Town v Ashington Colliers, Heaton Stannington v Walker Central and Seaton Delaval v Newcastle University.

14th November

By Bill Gardner
Only two of three scheduled Premier Division matches went ahead and second-placed Ponteland United trimmed the lead of front runners Alnwick Town to ten points by beating visitors Gateshead Rutherford 3-0.
With club captain Craig Brownout injured Pont handed a debut to new signing Stephen Salter and brought in promising keeper Ryan Carter for the absent Gareth Powell and Michael Havelock.

On Rutherford’s first ever visit to the Leisure Centre Ground they started brightly with Joe Hindmarch heading narrowly wide and Linton Smith going close with his free kick. United then created a few opportunities themselves and went in front five minutes before the break when Harry Tulip beat Gateshead keeper Dave Bebbington with his low drive.

Inside the first ten minutes of the second half the game was killed off as a contest by two more Ponteland goals. On 52 minutes a cross from Andrew Davidson was volleyed home from close range by Richard Kent. And almost immediately Kent turned provider, crossing from the right for Davidson to score with a rare header and take his recent goals tally to six in six outings.

In the other top flight league game Stocksfield emerged as 5-2 victors in their bottom of the table clash away to Cramlington Town to hoist themselves clear of the basement. Two of the winners’ goals were slotted in by Sandy Tordoff with Scott Johnson, Jamie Starkey and Pat Finnerty providing the others. Andrew Carr and Dan Branley replied for Cramlington who stayed level on points with Murton at the foot of the Premier Division.

Third round ties in the Kicks Leisure George Dobbins League Cup were hit by the weather but four of the seven planned games went ahead. And last season’s cup winners Hebburn Reyrolle bowed out following their 2-1 defeat at Wark. Tom McAlindon bagged both of Wark’s goals in the first half and Hebburn’s single reply came from Kristian Wilkinson in the 75th minute.

In an all-Premier Division encounter at Grounsell Park, Heaton Stannington were restricted to a 1-0 victory over visitors Murton who belied their low league ranking. Michael Waggott claimed what turned out to be Heaton’s winner after half an hour but Murton always looked capable of a comeback and only the woodwork denied them a late equaliser.

Alnwick Town carried their sparkling league form into the cup arena and booked their place in the League Cup’s last eight with a 3-0 home win against First Division opponents Heddon. The plucky visitors held out for 50 minutes before Dale Kennedy finally got Alnwick off the mark. And inside the following twenty minutes further goals were added by Chris Moffat and Stephen Hogg.

Blyth Town also made progress in the cup but needed the luxury of extra time and penalties to see off First Division visitors Cullercoats. Just before the break Graeme Heath fired Blyth in front but midway through the second half Sean Smith levelled for Cullercoats. Extra time produced no further goals and Blyth eventually won 4-2 in the spot kick shoot-out.

There are four third round games still to be decided in the League Cup with the updated draw for the quarter-finals now reading: Whitley Bay A or Harraby Catholic Club v Alnwick Town, Ashington Colliers or Newcastle University v Wark, Heaton Stannington v Amble United or Percy Main and Blyth Town v Shankhouse or Walker Central.

Carlisle City’s game away to Wigton in the third round of the Cumberland Senior Cup was postponed and rescheduled for this Saturday. Northbank made progress however by beating visitors Silloth 2-1 with goals in each half for Andy Rogerson and Ross Irving.

Harraby Catholic Club made a surprising exit from the county cup after losing 3-2 to hosts Eden Thistle who had started as relative outsiders in the competition. Two hotly disputed first half spot kicks both put away by the Thistle’s Stephen Golding put their visitors on the back foot and Phil Wynne scored a third goal before Harraby’s late replies came from Brett Swift and Mark Worrall (penalty). This was a major upset for the Northern Alliance’s reigning champions Harraby and after the game they bemoaned what they saw as some inexplicable decisions which hadn’t been in their favour.

DIVISIONS ONE & TWO – PETERLEE SOAR UP THE TABLE
The wet weather leading up to the weekend played havoc with fixtures in Division One and Division Two and there were eight scheduled games postponed.

In Division One Peterlee Town entertained Newcastle East End in the only surviving league game and the Newtowners won 5-0 to move up five notches into third spot. The East End had been performing quite well prior to this encounter but fell behind when Peter Crawford bagged an early brace for Peterlee.

A missed penalty attempt on the half hour mark was the East End’s last chance to save the game and after the break things went from bad to worse. Graham Ball increased the home side’s lead and after 70 minutes the Newcastle keeper was sent off after conceding a penalty which was put away by Crawford to complete his hat-trick. And with two minutes to spare Peterlee’s nap hand was topped up by Graham Lacey as they completed a league double against the Tynesiders.

In a second round tie in the Pin Point Recruitment Combination Cup there was a 2-1 victory for Whitley Bay A at Hillheads against Wallington. Both of Whitley’s goals were claimed by Dean Porter to put them into this season’s semi-finals.

South Shields United made progress in the Pin Point Recruitment Charity Cup’s first round by beating visitors North Shields Athletic 2-0. Goals late in each half by Aristote Guerin (penalty) and Richard Pinkney earned South Shields a trip into Cumbria to face Northbank Carlisle in next month’s quarter- finals.

Holders Morpeth Sporting Club retained their interest in this season’s Ideal Stelrad Northumberland Minor Cup and in a tie switched to the all weather pitch at Gateshead Stadium they beat cup opponents West Jesmond 3-2. The Morpeth marksmen to put them though were Mark Armstrong, Luke Jamieson-Yip and Graham Carter. Meanwhile other Minor Cup matches involving Northern Alliance sides were affected by the weather and have been rearranged for this weekend when Cramlington United host Blake law Cub and Forest Hall are away to Gosforth Bohemians A. And, after two postponements, Cramlington’s cup-tie may be switched to Blakelaw.

Only one of seven Division Two league games was able to go ahead and Whitley Bay Town celebrated their first away win of the campaign. The Town beat Red House Farm 3-2 and had a hat-trick hero in Chris Atkin. Nathan Johnstone claimed both replies for the Farm who stayed put in mid-table while Whitley Bay eased themselves clear of the basement.

7th November

By Bill Gardner
Alnwick Town are now enjoying a thirteen-point lead at the top of the Premier Division table. Still unbeaten, the Northumbrians clocked up their eleventh successive league victory but had to work hard for a 2-1 verdict at Stocksfield.
The league’s most prolific scorers had to wait forty minutes for Stephen Hogg’s opener. With the ball apparently out of play before Stocksfield’s Wayne Stewart was harshly penalised for a foul, Alnwick were awarded a contentious free kick. It found Hogg whose volley struck a defender before looping over keeper David Armstrong into the net.
Only a few minutes later the league leaders were pegged back by Jamie Starkey’s Stocksfield equaliser. Scott Johnson’s pass released Sharkey and he shot across the keeper to claim his fourth goal in only five games for his new club. After 65 minutes however Alnwick’s lead was restored by Ben Keenan and once again the circumstances were questionable. He appeared to come back from an offside position before turning the ball in for his side’s winner and after Stocksfield had a late potential equalise disallowed Alnwick were eventually relieved to hear the final whistle.
In a top of the table clash with Percy Main at Purvis Park and after suffering two defeats on the trot Ponteland United beat their hosts 2-1 to move back into second spot. Dean Gate gave the black-and-whites a very early opener and following good work by John Redhead and Andrew Davidson his half volley flew into the bottom corner.
United’s lead was doubled midway through the first half by winger Davidson who has scored in six of his last seven appearances for Jarrod Suddick’s side. This time Redhead and Harry Tulip were involved in the build-up and Davidson finished well with a low drive just inside the upright.
While Percy Main’s defeat extended a run of poor home form and saw them slip down to sixth place, both Carlisle City and Blyth Town are starting to take an interest in the title race, albeit as outsiders at the moment.
Carlisle City leapfrogged over Percy Main, Heaton Stannington and Harraby Catholic Club and while the last two were laid idle City climbed into third place with a 3-2 victory away to Shankhouse. Goals for James Armstrong and Jordan Walsh had given the home side a 2-1 advantage at the interval but Stuart Kilgour, Craig Cherry and Stuart Hill netted for the Cumbrians and Shankhouse have only won once at Northburn in this campaign.
Blyth Town have been creeping up on the rails despite a bout of travel sickness and they finally recorded their first away win, beating Seaton Delaval 3-0 at Wheatridge Park to climb into a very respectable fifth place. After only eight minutes they were fired in front by Danny Beresford when his chance was organised by Jeff Fuller.
Seven minutes into the second half Blyth’s lead was doubled and when Fuller pulled the ball back from the bye-line and Graeme Heath seized the easiest of chances to beat the keeper. Moments later the game was effectively over for Delaval. Steve Anderson was sent off for a late challenge on Town keeper Scott Earle who had to be taken off injured. And in the 67th minute Blyth neatly wrapped up the points with their third goal as a Fuller effort was handled and he stepped up to score from the resultant penalty.
After losing two home games on the trot Killingworth Sporting got things right again by beating visitors Wark 3-0. Wark had been unbeaten in three previous outings but looked lethargic in this encounter and were duly punished. Liam Callaghan bagged a brace for Killy whose other marksman was Kevin Westphal.
Walker Central picked up their first away points of the season and hauled themselves out of the basement with a 4-0 victory against second bottom Cramlington Town. The final score was no reflection of an entertaining game in which lively striker Nabby Benny was Walker’s secret weapon, scoring all four goals for the winners to crown a great personal performance.
In the second round of the Durham FA Trophy, Gateshead Rutherford were beaten 4-3 at home by league colleagues Simonside SC who had ex-Rutherford player Shaun Edwards scoring a hat-trick. And Murton made progress with a comfortable 7-2 win against Durham Alliance hosts Washington Town. Their goals were supplied by Liam Gill (hat-trick), Stephen Turner (2), Tom Elliott and Karl Garside.

DIVISION ONE – HEBBURN KEEP THE HEAT ON
First Division leaders Whitley Bay A were on county cup duty and nearest rivals Hebburn Reyrolle trimmed the Seasiders’ lead to a single point and the South Tynesiders have a useful game in hand. Hebburn kept this season’s hundred percent record intact by beating lowly visitors Stobswood Welfare 3-1. This wasn’t one of Reyrolle’s better performances but goals for Craig Watson (penalty), Dominic Solman and Craig Malley secured three more vital points. Chris Graham replied for the Welfare.
South Shields United climbed into third spot and made it four wins out of five at home by beating mid-table opponents Heddon 3-1. The Shieldsmen completed a league double over their visitors with goals shared by Aristote Guerin, Dominic Mossa and Tijan Kah.
Newcastle East End’s climb up the table was interrupted when they only managed a 3-3 draw away to Berwick United Ultras. Berwick, who have failed to win in their last four games, had Andrew Bergon, Brian Parkin and Sean Phillips finding the net in this one. But they still dropped another two points as the East Enders claimed their share of the spoils with replies from Mark Lowson(2) and Lee Stephenson.
From being front runners at one time in the First Division, Amble United have hit a bad patch and slumped down to sixth place. United’s 4-0 defeat by hosts Newcastle University was their third setback on the trot and they need to turn things around quickly to revive their promotion hopes. The Students meanwhile look set to charge up the table with their games in hand and they sunk Amble without trace with strikes by Ed Savitt( 2), Dan Clements and James Swainston.
Peterlee Town had just suffered three straight defeats at Eden Lane but stopped the rot at the expense of visitors Chopwell Officials who clearly still have some problems to sort out after losing 5-1. Goals for Darren Major and Martyn Pearce gave the Newtowners a clear interval lead. Alan Rennison pulled a goal back for Chopwell but they were on the back foot in the last half hour and conceded further goals to Peterlee’s Peter Crawford, Paul Franks and Phil Robinson.

DIVISION TWO – MORE MISERY FOR TELECOM LADS
None of the three Second Division matches had any bearing on the top of the table where Wallsend Town are holding off their nearest rivals Wallsend Boys Club. And in a clash with basement partners Wideopen & District there was no joy for hosts Newcastle BT. A 2-1 defeat stretched BT’s winless run to seven games as Wideopen clocked up their first league victory of the season. Anthony Bruce opened the scoring for BT but they were left disappointed and after Alex Wellington levelled for the visitors their stoppage time winner was snatched by Craig Redpath.
Despite having central defender Mike Smith sent off just before the interval Swalwell overtook Cullercoats Custom Planet in the pecking order by soundly beating their visitors 7-2 although it was only 2-1 at half time. Dave Fitzpatrick and Stuart Rook bagged a brace apiece for Swalwell who also had Joe Adams and Adam McVickers on target. Their tally was topped up with an own goal presented by the Planet’s Paul Katz. Tony Fawcett (penalty) and Andrew McCartney replied for the losers.
Willington Quay Saints have won only once on home turf this term and they were well beaten 6-1 by up-and-coming visitors Northbank Carlisle. The Cumbrians were dominant throughout and were rewarded with goals by John Slaven (2), Fraser Vass (2), Scott Thompson and Nicky Routledge. Gareth Pugh was a lone marksman for the Saints.

NORTHUMBERLAND MINOR CUP
Of the fourteen Northern Alliance sides involved in second round ties in the Ideal Stelrad Northumberland FA Minor Cup eleven cleared this hurdle. The teams bowing out at this stage of the competition were Wallsend Town, Whitley Bay Town and Amble.
There were resounding second round victories for Whitley Bay A, Hexham and Wallington and the Bay were 6-1 victors away to Belford with their goals coming from Ian Lee (2), Glen Rearden, Jamie Lyndon, Adam Johnson and Gavin Hattrick.
Hexham almost emulated Whitley Bay’s feat by winning 5-1 against Shilbottle CW Reserves at Wentworth Park. The Tyne valley outfit had Scott Robson and Mark Gibson scoring two goals each and Stephen Coates claimed their fifth.
Wallington however outdid their two colleagues and registered the round’s highest score by hammering Springhill Berwick 8-0 at Scots Gap. The spring was certainly taken out of the visitors and they were already trailing 6-0 at half time. Jordan Nellis led the way with his hat-trick for Wallington while Sam Walton bagged a brace and the rest of their goals were supplied by Kyle Reardon, Mark Jewitt and Nick McClughin.
A single first half goal for Chris Baker was enough to earn Seaton Burn their third round ticket at the expense of cup hosts Alnmouth United while Newcastle Chemfica narrowly beat visitors New York 2-1 with a Steve McLaughlin penalty and a telling second goal by Gareth Davies. And Red House Farm made home advantage count to beat Wearside League opponents Prudhoe Town 3-1.
North Shields Athletic made the cut by winning 2-1 away to Red Star Benwell with strikes by Graham Williams and David Jeffers and Cullercoats retained an interest by winning 4-2 away to Walker Central Reserves. Peter Bradley’s free kick got the Seasiders off the mark. Stewart Wright then netted twice to set Cullercoats up for the kill and their winning tally was completed by Gareth Armstrong.
Gosforth Bohemians were happy with a 3-2 verdict at Wooler to put them through with their goals shared by Dan Child, Andrew Renton and Nick Robinson. And there were two all-Northern Alliance ties in the Minor Cup’s second round.
Whitley Bay Town had Matt Bergh and Chris Fairley on target at home to league colleagues Wallsend Boys Club but after leading 2-1 with eight minutes to go ended up losing 4-2. The Boys Club hit back successfully through Ben Pollock, Oye Oyolade, Mike Starkie and Rob Haney in a storming finish.
The other county cup clash between sides in the Alliance’s Second Division saw third-placed Tynemouth United entertaining league leaders Wallsend Town with United emerging as impressive 4-2 victors. Lee Garwood (2), Lee Brady and Paul Gordon were Tynemouth’s scorers with Craig Burke and Alex Downey replying in vain for the disappointed losers.
Three second round ties postponed last weekend will be hopefully played this Saturday when Cramlington United entertain Blakelaw Club, Forest Hall visit Gosforth Bohemians A and Morpeth Sporting Club are away to West Jesmond.

31st October

By Bill Gardner
With other top-of-the-table results going their way, Alnwick Town also helped themselves to go a massive twelve points clear at the head of the Premier Division table. The Town’s 5-3 victory over Percy Main maintained their hundred percent home record and was their tenth league win on the trot.
Dale Kennedy gave Alnwick a very early opener and two quick-fire penalties put away by Ben Keenan just before the interval extended their lead. Percy Main had Jason Ritchie (penalty), Mick Haley and Liam Knox on target but were always chasing the game and Alnwick’s winning tally was completed by Neil Catlow and James Swordy.
Percy Main’s defeat, their first away from home, allowed Heaton Stannington to nudge them out of second spot and also overtake Ponteland United who they beat 3-1 at Grounsell Park. But with keeper Gareth Powell replacing the injured Michael Havelock and new signing Scott McDonald making his debut Pont looked the better side in the opening exchanges. And on the quarter hour they went ahead with Andrew Davidson scoring from the spot after Harry Tulip was fouled.
There was an immediate response from Heaton however and only three minutes later they were back on terms, Kye Waters seizing on a half clearance to beat Powell with his low 25-yard drive into the bottom corner.
Only 25 minutes had elapsed when Heaton went in front for the first time. Adam Donaghey completed a fine run down the right by firing across the Ponteland keeper and just inside the back post. And ten minutes into the second half the home side claimed their vital third goal. Andrew Weeks did the spadework and when he pulled the ball back from the bye-line full back Ian Mills was able to pick his spot.
While both Percy Main and Ponteland dropped down a notch there was renewed hope for the Cumbrian contingent of Harraby Catholic Club and Carlisle City who moved up to occupy fifth and sixth places respectively.
Harraby were fortunate to win 1-0 away to Walker Central but had to survive a strong last minute penalty appeal after Rob Bainbridge had fired them into a 13th minute lead with his first goal of the season. And Carlisle City were happy to draw 1-1 with improving visitors Ashington Colliers. James Hartley was quick to give City an early lead when a cross from Robbie Mather came to him off the head of Colliers defender Gareth Rees. Michael Hogg levelled midway through the first half for Ashington after robbing Steve Bell and beating advancing keeper Bradley. The Colliers had won their three previous games away from home but both sides squandered second half chances in this one and a draw was probably the fairest result.
Blyth Town climbed into the top half of the table after winning 4-1 at home to Murton who are now on the bottom rung and without a single win on their travels. Jeff Fuller’s opener for Blyth was cancelled out by Liam Gill but that was Murton’s last shout. Fuller, Jonny Mann and Gary Day added to Blyth’s tally and they had a chance to make it five but Mark Waugh missed from the penalty spot.
Shankhouse shared the spoils from their 1-1 draw with hosts Gateshead Rutherford after having James Armstrong on target straight from the kick off. Rutherford’s 70th minute leveller was claimed by Linton Smith.
Stocksfield’s recent problems were eased when second half goals earned them a 2-0 home win against Killingworth Sporting. Jamie Sharkey opened the scoring on the hour with his low drive after receiving from Ben Pearson. And within another three minutes the home side’s lead was doubled by Scott Johnson. Once again Pearson initiated the move and, when his flag kick was helped on by Pat Finnerty, Johnson almost broke the net from close range.
Lowly Cramlington Town did well to get a 2-2 draw at Wark. Aiden Armstrong and Dale Telfer scored for the home side but two successful penalties by Andrew Carr earned Cramlington a deserved and welcome point.
In their second round tie away to Hebburn Reyrolle in the Kicks Leisure League Cup, Seaton Delaval were beaten 3-2 by their First Division hosts. Delaval had Andy Johnson and Jordan Fry on target to lead 2-0 but Reyrolle hit back successfully through James McCoy, James Wood and Craig Watson who scored from the spot in stoppage time to settle the issue.

DIVISION ONE – WHITLEY ARE READY FOR HEBBURN CHALLENGE
While their top of the table rivals Hebburn Reyrolle were on League Cup duty, Whitley Bay A increased their lead at the head of the First Division table to four points although Hebburn now have two useful games in hand.
The Bay are still unbeaten and have a hundred percent record in six away games to date and they continued on their merry way with a 2-1 victory over Heddon at Bullocksteads. After a goal-less opening half Ian Lee got Whitley off the mark and their lead was increased by Gavin Hattrick with seven minutes to go. A last minute reply from Heddon’s Kevin Urwin came too late to affect the outcome.
Cullercoats won 3-0 away to Amble United and overtook their hosts to settle into third spot. For the first time in this campaign Amble failed to find the net and the visitors picked up the points with second half strikes by Steve Hart (penalty), Peter Bradley and Alex Burnett. And this was a welcome result for Cullercoats who, despite remaining unbeaten away from home, had drawn three and lost one of their previous four games in the First Division.
Newcastle East End made it three wins out of four by beating out-of-sorts visitors Morpeth Sporting Club 2-0 with goals by Lee Stephenson and Andy Graham. And Wallington’s progress continued when they beat lowly hosts Stobswood Welfare 4-2. The Wallington goals shared by Tom McPherson, Jordan Nellis, Sam Walton and Justin Millican extended their side’s unbeaten run to five games. Replies from Adam Shanks and Chris Graham weren’t enough to save the Welfare from another defeat.
After losing three games on the bounce South Shields United returned to form in spectacular fashion by winning 8-2 at home to Peterlee Town. Aristote Guerin led the way for Shields by banging in four of their goals and the rest were claimed by Richard Pinkney (2), Mark Davies and Phil Enlund.
North Shields Athletic recovered their winning touch following a long lean spell but only managed a 1-0 success at home to a Forest Hall side still seeking its first league point. Promotion has proved a step too far for the Hall and a goal for Athletic’s Dean Wear left them disappointed once again.
Gosforth Bohemians had only picked up two points from three appearances prior to entertaining Berwick United Ultras but they just edged it by 3-2 thanks to goals scored by Craig Allen, Tavis Couling and Andy Parkinson. And Newcastle University’s 4-2 victory away to troubled Chopwell Officials hoisted the Students clear of the basement. Their match-winning marksmen were Tim Rakshi, Ed Savitt, James Swainston and Andrew Hartley and a quick climb up the table is promised.

DIVISION TWO – NO WORRIES AT WALLSEND
The top three teams in the Second Division all won to keep things tight with leaders Wallsend Town, Wallsend Boys Club and Tynemouth United all adding to their points tally. And Wallsend Town, the most prolific scorers in the league’s three divisions, were at it again in a 5-1 victory at home to Cramlington United. Derek Graham completed his hat-trick for the Town whose other scorers were Craig Burke and Ronnie Kay.
So far unbeaten, the Town are setting the hottest of paces and with three games in hand are two points better off than second-placed Wallsend Boys Club. In an entertaining game away to fourth from bottom Amble the Tynesiders emerged as 3-0 victors with goals by Rob Haney (2) and Ben Pollock. Amble belied their lower status in the Second Division but lost some impetus after Shaun Jobson suffered an injury and was taken to hospital.
Tynemouth United in third spot seem to have recovered from a recent dip in form and the improvement was obvious in their important 5-4 home win against Simonside SC. The visitors had just won four league games in succession but despite having Shaun Edwards and Sean Flood bagging a brace apiece they still lost out in this one. Lee Garwood also netted twice for Tynemouth and their other three goals wrapping up the points were claimed by Alex Nisbet, Steve Matthews and Michael Armstrong.
After winning three games on the trot Newcastle Chemfica were brought back down to earth and were narrowly beaten 4-3 at home by Red House Farm who had in direct contrast just lost three games. The Farm just edged it in a thrilling encounter with goals supplied by Rob Nolan ( 2), Zack Brogden and Chris Davison. Unluckiest man on the field had to be Chemfica’s Steve McLaughlin who had nothing to laugh about after hitting a hat-trick.
Cullercoats Custom Planet have remained unbeaten in five games at home so far and hammered lowly visitors Whitley Bay Town 5-0. Martyn Hepple scored four of the winners’ goals but spurned a chance for his fifth with a penalty miss and the Planet’s nap hand was completed by Andrew McCartney.
Newcastle BT had drawn four and lost one of five games prior to entertaining Northbank Carlisle. They would have settled for another stalemate but instead were beaten 1-0 by the Cumbrians whose 75th minute winner was slotted in by John Slaven from Ross Irving’s low cross.
Seaton Burn secured their fourth win, beating Willington Quay Saints 1-0 with a close range header from Sean Barker with only a minute to spare. But Wideopen & District are still without a league win and stayed perched on the bottom rung despite their battling 1-1 draw with mid-table visitors Hexham. Sean Hay was on target for Wideopen with Steve Coates replying for Hexham whose travelling form has been letting them down so far this term.

24th October

By Bill Gardner
Nearest rivals Ponteland United slipped up and Alnwick Town went ten points clear at the top of the table. The unbeaten Northumbrians claimed their ninth league win on the trot, beating hosts and defending champions Harraby Catholic Club 1-0.
Alnwick were in front midway through the first half when Tony Brown’s inswinging corner found Tom Vickers who finished with the deftest of touches. After 55 minutes however the goal-scorer was taken off injured after colliding with the goalpost. He was replaced by James Swordy and the Northumbrians suffered another blow when Kevin Elliott received his marching orders but they defended well to cling onto the points.
.Ponteland lost their unbeaten record and after five successive victories went down 2-1 at home to Carlisle City. United were given a very early lead by Andrew Davidson who seized on an overhead pass from Max Turner to pick his spot.
Pont keeper Michael Havelock was injured after half an hour and was eventually replaced by Gareth Powell and Carlisle levelled right on half time as Steve Rooke stooped to head home from a corner kick. Both sides squandered chances after the break and a draw looked inevitable but with four minutes to go a City flag kick skidded off Pont defender John Redhead’s shin at the near post to creep over the line and present all three points to the visitors.
Percy Main and Heaton Stannington held onto third and fourth places respectively and Percy Main did the trick by winning 2-1 away to an in-form Ashington Colliers. The Colliers had won three and drawn one of four recent games and were fired into an interval lead by Michael Hogg after Shaun Gibson’s right wing corner came back off the upright. But straight after the break Jon McEnaney levelled for the Villagers after racing onto an astute through ball from Malcolm Morien. At the other end the Main’s keeper Rob Rodgerson did well to thwart Ashington’s John Moscrop but it was the Villagers who struck again to settle the issue. Ashley Smith scored the winner when put through by Tony Browell and the Colliers’ cause wasn’t helped by the by the dismissal of goal-scorer Hogg for a foul on Mick Haley.
Having won only one of five prior encounters Heaton Stannington turned the corner with a 3- 1 victory away to Killingworth Sporting despite having Kevin Carr red-carded after 65 minutes. Kevin Westphal opened the scoring for Killy but a determined Heaton came out on top with strikes by Ian Mills and Lawrence McKenna who bagged himself a vital brace.
Shankhouse had won all three of their away games before dropping in at Cramlington Town but they had a nasty surprise in store. Bottom rung outfit Cramlington picked up their first points on home turf this term and in a stirring encounter emerged as 5-4 victors. Despite a David Dormand hat-trick and a goal for Kevin Ord the visitors were still edged out of it. The Town ended a run of seven straight defeats with goals shared by Kieran Parsons, Christen Priest, Steve Rylatt, Sean Walker and Dieu Donne Lomana.
Seaton Delaval secured their first home win by beating Walker Central 2-1. The Central, still with no points on their travels, were given the lead by Abu Sallin but Steve Anderson levelled for Delaval before the interval. Walker worked hard after being forced to endure the second half with only ten men but were killed off by an 82nd minute strike by Delaval’s Stephen Howes.
Blyth Town had picked up only two points from four games prior to the visit of troubled Stocksfield but cruised to a 6-2 win on this occasion. A second minute opener for Gary Day gave Blyth a boost and when Jeff Fuller completed a first half hat-trick they were totally in charge. After the break Jonathan Mann added to the home side’s tally which was completed by Danny Beresford with his chance set up by David Atkinson. A Ben Pearson penalty and Mark Waugh’s own goal made up Stocksfield’s losing tally and they’re still seeking their first points away from home.
Murton lost 2-1 at home to Wark as both sides tried to shake off a spell of poor form. A 5th minute opener by Martyn Blenkinsop was unfruitful for Murton and Wark claimed victory with replies in each half from Matt McLoughlin and Matthew Blackith.

DIVISION ONE – EAST ENDERS THWART AMBLE
First Division leaders Whitley Bay A had their home game with Newcastle University postponed while second placed Hebburn Reyrolle staged their delayed Combination Cup tie, beating Morpeth Sporting Club 3-0. And Hebburn will be visiting Amble United in the quarter-finals on 20th November.
With these two pace-setters missing out on le ague action there was an opportunity for Amble United in third spot to narrow the points gap but they were left frustrated and were beaten 3-2 away to Newcastle East End. Darren Riddell’s two goals for the Seasiders weren’t enough and their seven-match unbeaten run was halted. After losing four previous games on home turf the East Enders got back on track impressively thanks to goals supplied by Mark Lowson, Ian Graham and Robbie Mills.
Along with the East End both Cullercoats and Heddon are still trying to get up among the leaders and they also picked up points to progress their ambitions. Cullercoats however featured in their third draw in four games and were restricted to a 2-2 stalemate by visitors Gosforth Bohemians. The Cullercoats scorers were Peter Bradley and Graham Allen but the Bohs deserved their share of the spoils with their replies coming from Darren Campbell and Peter Gadsden.
Heddon are now sharing fourth place with Cullercoats after their 3-2 victory away to bottom rung strugglers Forest Hall who remain on zero points from eight games. Michael Reay and Neil Gibson netted for the Hall but their efforts went unrewarded. Ben Haddock’s hat-trick for the visitors proved decisive even if the narrowness of their victory wasn’t too convincing.
North Shields Athletic were happy to end a winless run of six games by beating hosts Peterlee Town 3-1 in a mid-table battle. After Liam Elliott grabbed a very early opener for the Athletic the Newtowners had a chance to restore parity on the quarter hour mark. Peter Crawford missed from the penalty spot however and almost immediately Dave Jeffers doubled the North Shields lead. Stephen Hockaday got the home team off the mark but with ten minutes to go Craig Boyle wrapped up the points with the Athletic’s third goal.
Three First Division games were washed out and as well as Whitley Bay A’s game at Hillheads the other casualties of the weather were Berwick United’s home game with South Shields United and Stobswood Welfare’s fixture against visitors Chopwell Officials.

DIVISION TWO – WALLSEND DROP FIRST POINTS
Table-toppers Wallsend Town had their hundred percent record in the Second Division terminated when they only managed a 3-3 draw with Northbank over in Cumbria. First half strikes by Sean Reid and Ronnie Kay had given the Tynesiders a great start but Northbank hit back on either side of the interval through Scott Thompson (penalty) and Andy Rogerson. Although Derek Graham’s goal edged Wallsend in front again they were deprived of victory by Rogerson’s second goal of the game for their hosts.
While Newcastle Chemfica were lying idle Simonside SC leapfrogged over them into second spot thanks to an amazing 6-5 win at home to Cullercoats Custom Planet. The most frustrated man on the pitch had to be the Planet’s Martyn Hepple who scored all five of their goals but still finished on the losing side. Simonside have won all four of their home games to date and just edged this thrilling encounter with strikes by Sean Flood (2), John Bailey (2), Ian Hudson and Steve Graham.
Tynemouth United in fifth spot beat fourth-placed hosts Wallsend Boys Club 3-1 to signal the end of a brief lean spell. Only an outstanding display by home keeper Phil Holgate kept Tynemouth at bay in a goal-less opening half but he was beaten after the break by United’s Lee Garwood and then Steve Matthews. Rob Haney’s successful spot lifted the Boys Club’s spirits but they waster several other scoring chances and were punished when Garwood was again on target for the visitors.
Seaton Burn celebrated after securing their first points away from home with a single goal victory over Red House Far. This was a third defeat on the trot for the Farm with the Burn’s winner scored from the spot by Ian Armstrong.
Swalwell were 3-2 victors away to Cramlington United who had won one and drawn three of their four most recent games in the Second Division. Despite having Lindsay Collinson and Mark Langlands on target United’s improved run was ended as Swalwell harvested the points with replies from Dave Fitzpatrick (2) and Chris Smith.
Hexham beat Newcastle BT 2-1at Wentworth Park but were trailing at the interval to Sean Blakey’s opener for their visitors. Tom Phillips netted to get Hexham back on terms and their winner was put away by Steve Coates.
Both Whitley Bay Town and Willington Quay Saints celebrated rare successes and the Bay notched their first win of the season. They beat bottom rung visitors Wideopen & District 1-0 with the game’s single goal scored after half an hour by Richard Biggs.
Willington Quay moved up the table a couple of notches, securing their first home points from a 3- 2 victory over strugglers and poor travellers Amble. The Saints were 2-1 down at half time but hit back effectively and got the points in the bag with strikes by Andrew Macbeth (2) and Gareth Pugh.

17th October

By Bill Gardner

Two second round ties in the Kicks Leisure George Dobbins League Cup were ten-goal thrillers with top flight clubs Heaton Stannington and Blyth Town, both away to lower division opponents, claiming identical 6-4 victories.
Heaton’s marksmen away to Newcastle East End were Lawrence McKenna (hat-trick), Adam Donaghey, Ian Mills and Andy Weeks. Andy Graham also completed a hat-trick for the losers whose other reply came from Jason Thompson.
Visiting Willington Quay Saints, Blyth Town’s scorers were Jonny Mann (hat-trick), Jeff Fuller (2) and Danny Beresford to outweigh the Saints’ efforts by Gareth Pugh (2), Stephen Cape and Glen Johnson (penalty). And there were other high-scoring ties in which Alnwick Town and 2005 cup winners Shankhouse made easy progress. Despite having Gary Bailes sent off just after the break in their home tie against Red House Farm, Alnwick still coasted through 7-0 with goals by Tom Vickers (3), James Swordy (2), Chris Moffat and Ben Keenan.
Shankhouse had a slightly more modest 5-0 success away to Newcastle Chemfica with goals were shared by Michael Bell, James Armstrong, Jordan Walsh, David Dormand and James Card.
In the second round’s only all-Premier Division encounters there were victories for Walker Central and Wark at the expense of top flight colleagues. Walker beat cup hosts Cramlington Town 4-0, avenging their earlier league defeat with goals by Ben Taylor (2), Liam Mulligan and Nabby Benny. And Wark’s scorers in the 2-0 home win against Gateshead Rutherford were Tony Lancaster and Matt McLoughlin.
Ashington Colliers cruised into the next round by beating visitors Amble 4-0 with strikes by Simon Cunningham, Jon Rees, Marc Richardson and Michael Hogg but Ponteland United came a cropper at Cullercoats.
With several players unavailable Pont had to make changes, bringing in full back Ricky Fenwick for his first start of the season. Paul Hodgson also made a belated start to the campaign following a lengthy injury absence but United were still missing the services of Craig Brown and Ross Phillips.
United fell behind after only five minutes when Gareth Armstrong had an easy tap in for Cullercoats. The visitors levelled on the quarter hour and just after Harry Tulip’s header came off the bar Hodgson scored with a powerful volley to make it all square at half time.
Cullercoats had a player harshly sent off after 55 minutes for denying a goal scoring opportunity and Andrew Davidson put Pont in front with the resultant penalty. But in the 88th minute and despite their numerical disadvantage the Seasiders got back on terms when Craig Deighton headed home from a free kick. Extra time produced no further goals and in the spot kick shoot-out Cullercoats edged it as 4-3 victors.
Reigning Premier Division champs Harraby Catholic Club were taken to extra time by Tynemouth United over in Cumbria after Tynemouth’s Michael Brown had cancelled out Daniel Balmer’s early opener. Harraby emerged as 4-2 victors thanks to extra time goals scored by Marc Shiel (2) and Aaron Roberts.
Murton won 4-1 at home to current Second Division leaders Wallsend Town after Steve Bell had given the Tynesiders an interval lead. Murton turned the tables with replies from Paul Garside (hat-trick) and Marc Smith.
A bad facial injury to Percy Main’s Chris Locke caused the 70th minute abandonment of their home tie against Peterlee Town with the Villagers leading 4-0. Both John Amos and Dean Ellis had scored two goals apiece before the unsavoury incident leading to the immediate sending of the Peterlee offender. And the Main will now have to wait to see whether the game has to be replayed.
In the only Premier Division league game Killingworth Sporting beat hosts Carlisle City with second half goals by Kevin Westphal and Elliott Dixon. The result ended a three-match losing streak for Killy.

DIVISION ONE – CUP ROUNDUP
On a weekend when league games in the First and Second Divisions made way for ties in the Kicks Leisure League Cup and Pin Point Recruitment Charity Cup, only Amble United, Cullercoats, Whitley Bay A, Newcastle University and Heddon kept the First Division flag flying in the League Cup. And every one of the Second Division survivors bowed out at the second round stage.
Amble United stayed on course by winning 3-1 at home to their First Division colleagues Wallington and a first half brace claimed by Josh Hay laid the foundations for the Seasiders. Although Jordan Nellis replied for Wallington just before half time their hopes of a comeback were dashed in the 55th minute when Ross Gair scored Amble’s third goal.
While Cullercoats claimed a major scalp in their successful penalty shoot-out at home to Ponteland United, Whitley Bay A made progress with a 4-1 victory at Hexham where their goals were equally shared by Jamie Lyndon, Alex Robinson, Tomi Ameobi and Dean Porter.
Freshly-relegated Newcastle University and Heddon kept their League Cup options open and the Students had goals by James Swainston, Ben Burt and Pat Stokle to thank for their 3-2 victory over Berwick United Ultras at Cochrane Park.
Heddon however needed the luxury of extra time to book their third round ticket with a 3- 2 win away to Wideopen & District. Nick Jefferson and Sean Hay netted for Wideopen but two replies from Dan Robinson earned Heddon a second chance. Although they were down to ten men for the added half hour the visitors had Robinson on the mark again to complete his hat-trick and put his side through into the last sixteen.
With the second round completed apart from the tie involving holders Hebburn Reyrolle at home to Seaton Delaval the third round draw of the Kicks Leisure League Cup now reads:
Alnwick Town v Heddon, Amble United v Percy Main or Peterlee Town,
Ashington Colliers v Newcastle University, Blyth Town v Cullercoats, Heaton Stannington v Murton, Shankhouse v Walker Central, Wark v Hebburn Reyrolle or Seaton Delaval and
Whitley Bay A v Harraby Catholic Club. Ties are due to be played on Saturday 13th November.

CHARITY CUP ACTION
In a delayed preliminary round tie in the Pin Point Recruitment Charity Cup, North Shields Athletic progressed by beating visitors Chopwell Officials 2 -0. Goals for Matt Donkin and David Jeffers earned the Athletic a forthcoming trip across the river to take on first round opponents South Shield United.
All of the other first round ties were decided and Forest Hall celebrated a rare victory, beating cup hosts Morpeth Sporting Club 6-2 in extra time. And the extra half hour was also required by Northbank Carlisle to secure a 4-2 verdict away to Newcastle BT. Dan Sherliker and Greg Hamilton were BT’s scorers in normal time but they ran out of steam and the Cumbrians wrapped up the tie.
The most incisive Charity Cup victory was achieved by Simonside SC who beat visitors Cramlington United 7-1. In a one-sided encounter Shaun Edwards claimed a hat-trick for the winners. The other Simonside marksmen were Sean Flood ( 2), Steve Graham and Craig Lumley before Dean Morgan grabbed a last minute consolation goal for Cramlington.
Stobswood Welfare did well to win 3-1 and end the Charity Cup hopes of in-form visitors Gosforth Bohemians whose only scorer was John Elliott. David King opened the Welfare’s account and their progress was assured when Adam Shanks bagged himself a brace.
Stocksfield, the only Premier Division competitors in the Charity Cup this term, proved too strong for Second Division visitors Seaton Burn, winning 2-0 with goals for Jamie Starkey and Ben Pearson. And Swalwell won 5-1 at home to Wallsend Boys Club who had beaten their hosts 1-0 in the identical league game in this campaign. Wallsend boss Tim Hutchinson fielded a young side for the cuptie but in the opening twenty minutes was dismayed to see teenager Gary McGarrigal and veteran Alan Storey carried off injured. Storey could face a long lay-off with ankle ligament damage.
After Scot Goldsmith-Scott gave Swalwell a half time lead their visitors had a tough task ahead and after the changeover the home side added further goals through Dave Fitzpatrick ( 2) and Stuart Rook ( 2) before Scott Lynas finally got the Boys Club off the mark. But this wasn’t the best of adverts for Northern Alliance football.
Whitley Bay Town had Liam Hudson and Chris Fairley finding the net in their tie at home to Cullercoats Custom Planet but got no joy and were eventually beaten 6-2. Martin Wardale’s hat-trick ensured that the Planet retained their interest in the cup and just to make sure the visitors also had Tony Fawcett, Liam Graham and Andy Gay getting their names on the score sheet.

By Bill Gardner
Four past winners of the Northumberland FA Senior Benevolent Bowl – Blyth Town, Ponteland United, Percy Main and Seaton Delaval – were all successful in first round ties this time. And Blyth, who lifted this trophy in 2008 and again in 2009, passed their initial test with a 3-1 victory away to Cramlington Town.
For this tie ex-team boss Jeff Orr stepped in alongside David Dent in the absence of manager Michael Connor. And Blyth opened the scoring when full back Richard Orr’s cross was handled by a Cramlington defender and Jeff Fuller stepped up to beat home keeper Frazer Nairn with his spot kick. The hosts responded and a defensive error allowed Jordan Watson to equalise from a tight angle.
The visitors went in front again however before half time when Gary Day’s cross was bundled in by Jonny Mann and it was job done after 70 minutes when Tom Haigh completed the scoring with a tremendous long range volley.
Ponteland United have lifted the Senior Bowl on four previous occasions and stayed on course for another triumph by beating hosts Killingworth Sporting 5-2. The result completed a league and cup double for United who had been idle for a fortnight but they were trailing early on after Andrew Edmondson opened the scoring for Killy.
Pont equalised midway through the first half when John Redhead finished well following good work by strike partners John Dunn and Harry Tulip. But Killy’s lead was restored before the changeover by Elliott Dixon who took advantage of a wayward back pass.
Ponteland moved up a gear after the break and on 55 minutes got back on terms when Glenn Ford’s headed pass was headed in by Harry Tulip. Almost immediately United were in front for the first time as John Dunn’s cross was slotted in by Tulip. And Tulip went on to complete a second half hat-trick before the visitors’ tally was completed by Andrew Davidson’s curling free kick. Ponteland’s joy was muted however when Dunn had to be taken to hospital with a suspected broken ankle.
Percy Main coasted through and were 4-0 victors at Purvis Park to end the hopes of First Division opponents Heddon. Ashley Smyth opened the scoring when unselfishly fed by John Amos who had rounded the keeper. Five minutes before the break Smyth struck again, this time after racing onto a great through ball from Mick Haley. Amos then got his name on the score sheet with a great strike from the edge of the box when a flag kick was only partially cleared. And with three minutes to go Pierre luc Coiffait rounded off a good day for the Villagers. Following good work by Malcolm Morien he found the net from just outside the area.
Aiming for what would be their third success in the county cup, Seaton Delaval banged in five goals without reply to sink Wark at Wheatridge Park. A weakened Wark outfit was always under pressure and Delaval’s Stephen Howes and Steve Anderson scored two goals each to make up a nap hand after Jordan Fry had opened their account.
In a repeat of last season’s Senior Bowl final, holders Alnwick Town made an early exit and were beaten 1-0 at home by Heaton Stannington. To avenge last term’s defeat, Heaton’s winner was scored by Gary Yates on the stroke of half time and they were worthy winners on this occasion.
Newcastle University relegated to the Northern Alliance’s First Division for this campaign, surprised Premier Division opponents Shankhouse by winning 3-1 at Cochrane Park. George Coyle, Patrick Stokle and Elliott Connolly were on target for the Students and Shankhouse’s only response was a Liam Jubb penalty.
Walker Central beat cup hosts Stocksfield 5-4 in a penalty shoot-out after the game ended all square at 1-1 after extra time. Home striker Jamie Sharkey had cancelled out Nabby Benny’s opener for the Central. And Amble United were unlucky to finish up as 5-2 extra time losers at home to Ashington Colliers, having led 2-1 until deep into stoppage time. Sean Taylor and Darren Riddell were the Amble scorers but the Colliers went through with goals supplied by Marc Richardson (2 ), Jamie Patterson (2) and Shaun Gibson.
Meanwhile in the only league game in the Premier Division, Gateshead Rutherford drew 1-1 with visitors Murton who had Paul Wintrip levelling after Craig Horsfall had put their hosts in front.

DIVISION ONE – CATCH US IF YOU CAN
Championship and promotion issues are never decided in the first half of a season but Whitley Bay A and Hebburn Reyrolle are doing their best to prove the theory wrong in the First Division. Current leaders Whitley are unbeaten in ten starts while second-placed Hebburn with a game in hand have retained a hundred percent record.
Both teams won comfortably again and at Hillheads the Bay’s 4-0 victory ended the five-match unbeaten run of visitors Berwick United Ultras. Mark Nicholson bagged two goals for the winners whose other scorers were Ian Lee and Dean Porter.
Channon North is Hebburn Reyrolle’s top scorer and he claimed his tenth goal of the season in his side’s 4-1 home win against North Shields Athletic. Ray Oshin and Craig Watson (penalty) were the other Reyrolle marksmen with an own goal completing their tally. Losers North Shields got no comfort from this game and have failed to win any of their last six.
Cullercoats in fourth place have only added two points to their total in three most recent appearances and were limited to a 2-2 draw with in-form visitors Wallington. Stewart Wright and Dave Fairless struck for the Seasiders but Wallington who had just won three league games on the trot replied through Jordan Nellis and Sam Walton to claim a share of the spoils.
Peterlee Town bounced back from two straight defeats to beat hosts New castle East End 3-2. Home form has dipped for the East Enders and goals this time for Craig Pleasant and Kris Carr brought no reward. The Newtowners just shaded it with goals supplied by John Pyle, Stephen Hockaday and David Paul.
South Shields United are on a losing streak at the moment and were surprisingly beaten 2-1 at home by troubled Chopwell Officials for whom this was a first league victory. After Tijan Kah fired Shields in front they had Richard Pinkney missing from the spot instead of doubling their lead. Adam Fone got Chopwell off the mark on the hour and their unexpected winner was slotted home by veteran Kevin March.
In their Northumberland Minor Cup tie which was postponed on the previous Saturday, Gosforth Bohemians made progress by beating visitors Newcastle Medicals 7-0. Daniel Child and Peter Hall bagged two goals each for the Bohs and their remaining marksmen in a one-sided match were Craig Allen, Darren Campbell and Matt Atkin. They will now be joining another eight of their Northern Alliance colleagues in the second round draw.

DIVISION TWO – TOWN EXTEND THEIR WINNING STREAK
In the Second Division, Wallsend Town, Newcastle Chemfica and Wallsend Boys Club are continuing to set a challenging pace with current leaders Wallsend having the added bonus of three games in hand. With a surviving hundred percent record the Town marched on by beating visitors Red House Farm 4-1 and are the highest scorers in this division. On this occasion their goals were shared by Craig Burke, Sean Reid, Derek Graham and Stephen Dodd.
Newcastle Chemfica stayed level on points with Wallsend at the head of the table but were lucky to snatch a 1-0 victory at Hexham. In a game played at break-neck speed Chemfica were under heavy pressure in the first quarter but survived to claim the points and their third win on the trot. Their vital goal was a penalty scored after the break by Steve McLaughlin.
Given that Wallsend Boys Club have drawn two and lost one of their last five league matches Wallsend Boys Club are occupying a rather unlikely third spot. They made it two wins on the trot however by clinching a 3-1 verdict at Seaton Burn. Chris Thompson and Rob Haney netted for the Boys Club before Mark Braddick hit back for the home side. And early in the second half Leroy Odd scored a third for the Wallsend lads to make the points secure.
In their last six league games Newcastle BT have won only once and drawn five times and there was another 2-2 stalemate with visitors Tynemouth United. Goals for Anthony Bruce and Carl Aziz had given BT a clear interval lead but fifth-placed Tynemouth rallied and replied through Alex Nisbet and Lee Garwood. Man-of-the-match was undoubtedly BT’s keeper Guy Henderson who pulled off a string of fine saves in the closing ten minutes.
Cullercoats Custom Planet have been enjoying a successful run lately but their climb up the table was interrupted by a 3-3 home draw with Cramlington United. Martyn Evans, Andy McCartney and Tony Fawcett found the net for the Planet with Lindsay Collinson (2) and Craig Petrie on target for United who are still seeking their first away win.
Willington Quay Saints have been unbeaten in four away games to date and were 5-0 victors on their visit to Wideopen & District. Ryan Chirnside-Ferrier bagged a brace and the remaining g scorers were Gareth Pugh, Andy Macbeth and John Foggett. Wideopen haven’t won yet in this campaign and weren’t helped by having a player red-carded in the second half with the score standing at 2-0.
Amble claimed only their second league win, beating bottom rung visitors Whitley Bay Town 3-0. Their opener was a spectacular thirty-yarder blasted home by Jordan Giles and things were tidily wrapped up when John Charlton bagged himself a brace.
Meanwhile Simonside SC retained an interest in the Durham FA Trophy by beating Norton & Stockton Ancients Reserves 3-0 down on Teesside. Steve Graham slotted in two of Simonside’s goals and the third was claimed by Dave Scroggins.

3rd October

By Bill Gardner

While second-placed rivals Ponteland United were enjoying an idle Saturday, Alnwick Town extended their lead at the top of the Premier Division to a daunting seven points by beating visitors Killingworth Sporting 4-0. Yet to be beaten and with a hundred percent record at St James Park, the league leaders inflicted a third successive defeat on Killy with first half goals by Kevin Elliott, Dale Kennedy and Scott McMullen and a fourth for Chris Moffat in the 85th minute.
While Ponteland now have three games in hand to tackle the top-of-the-table deficit, Percy Main retained third spot with a creditable goal-less draw against reigning champions Harraby Catholic Club at Purvis Park. Harraby thought they had the ball in the net in the first minute when Mark Worrall’s drive was only partially parried by home keeper Phil Hogg, deputising for the injured Rob Rodgerson. Percy Main player-manager Jason Ritchie hacked the ball clear but admitted after the game that it was a close thing.
At the other end a cross from Pierre luc Coiffait shaved the bar and Michael Bowman’s fierce drive struck Harraby keeper Jordan English in the chest. And English had to be at his best to tip over Malcolm Morien’s header from Ritchie’s cross.
Both keepers excelled in what was a fascinating contest and Hogg in the Main goal brilliantly saved a great header from Marc Shiel. The same player beat Hogg in the dying minutes but once again the Villagers’ man-of-the-match Ritchie headed off the line. And the end result was fair to both sides.
Shankhouse’s recent climb up the table was interrupted as waterlogging at Northburn caused postponement of their game against Stocksfield. But this was the only casualty of the weather and Carlisle City’s improving form was reflected in their 4-0 victory over Murton at Sheepmount. City made the brightest of starts and Murton keeper Aiden Vout did well to deny Jamie Heath an early opener. But Vout was beaten after 20 minutes when Olly Driver charged down an attempted clearance and his pass to Mark Graham was hammered home from twelve yards.
Heath played a big part for City’s second goal, beating the offside trap to feed Robbie Mather who tapped in his first league goal of the season. But Murton continued to battle and they twice had Stephen Turner going close to reducing the deficit. And just before the break Turner was grounded by home keeper Jack Twentyman who was lucky not to concede a penalty.
Murton pressed after the changeover and Paul Wintrip’s clever chip came down off the crossbar with Twentyman beaten. Against the run of play however the Cumbrians increased their lead and a square pass from Graham found young substitute James Hartley who netted from a tight angle.
Wintrip and Turner still went close to getting a determined Murton off the mark, both being thwarted by late saves by Twentyman but City scored their fourth goal in the 89th minute. Again it was Hartley on target after he was put through by Stuart Kilgour.
Heaton Stannington’s hopes of getting up among the leaders were dealt a blow and they were soundly beaten 4-1 at home by a revitalised Seaton Delaval outfit. Adam Donaghey scored from the spot for Heaton to cancel out Craig Johnson’s early opener for the visitors. Jordan Fry restored Delaval’s lead and Steve Anderson also netted to make it 3-1 at the interval. Heaton missed with a second penalty attempt after Stephen Howes added to Delaval’s tally.
Still with no away win to their credit, Blyth Town were rather fortunate to share the spoils from their 3-3 draw at Wark. Goals in each half for Wark’s Dale and Lee Telfer were met with Blyth replies from Gary Day and Neil Blades. It seemed to be game over when Jamie Peel restored the home side’s lead withj five minutes to go but an 89th minute strike by Jeff Fuller rescued Blyth.
Ashington Colliers won 3-1 away to Walker Central and have secured three wins and a draw in four recent outings. It was all square at half time after Walker’s Nabby Benny cancelled out Glenn Bolton’s early goal for the Colliers but when Marc Richardson bagged a brace in the 75th and 80th minutes it was all over for the Tynesiders.
A spell of poor form and a points deduction had seen Gateshead Rutherford tumble down the table so their 2-1 victory over bottom rung hosts Cramlington Town restored some confidence. Craig Horsfall fired Rutherford into an interval lead and after Jordan Watson levelled for Cramlington the Gateshead winner was put away by Kevin Hay with ten minutes to spare.

DIVISION ONE – REYROLLE ELBOWED OUT BY THE BAY
Because of County Cup commitments only four First Division games were played, with two of them involving teams at the top of the table. And while Hebburn Reyrolle were out of action they were nudged out of pole position by Whitley Bay A. The Bay, still unbeaten and with a hundred percent travelling record, won 3-2 at Peterlee and thanks to strikes by Ian Lee (2) and Michael McMullen they were three goals up at the interval. The Newtowners hit back through Tommy Orchard and David Paul (penalty) but an equaliser eluded them.
Amble United moved up into third spot behind Hebburn after beating troubled hosts Chopwell Officials 4-1 with goals supplied by Josh Hay (2), Rikki Hume and Sean Taylor. Irving Ruddick replied for Chopwell who remained second from bottom and are still looking for their first league win.
In fifth spot despite only winning one of their last five matches, South Shields United were beaten 4-2 away by Newcastle University who could soon be climbing the table. Three goals inside five first half minutes for the University’s Patrick Stokle, George Coyle and Ed Savitt knocked the stuffing out of their visitors. Two replies from Mark Davies before the break offered United a ray of hope but the flame was extinguished when Tom Smith scored a fourth from the spot for the Students.
Wallington made it into the top half of the table after beating Heddon 2-1 at Scots Gap and just edged this contest between two in form sides. The Wallington goals were scored by John Paxton and Ben Fenwick with Ben Somerthwaite netting on his debut for the losers.

DIVISION TWO – SIMONSIDE BEGIN TO THREATEN
Games at Amble and Cramlington in the Second Division were washed out, leaving only two to go ahead while most teams were involved in the Northumberland Minor Cup. In one of the surviving clashes league newcomers Simonside SC picked up their third win on the trot to go level on points with leaders Wallsend Town although the Town now have two games in hand. The Simonside lads did the trick with a 3-2 victory at home to Northbank Carlisle but it was a close call. After Dave Scroggins put the home side in front the Cumbrians snatched the lead with replies from Sergio Royo and Andy Rogerson. Steve Graham’s leveller got Simonside back on track and with only three minutes to spare Sean Flood scored their vital winner.
In the remaining league game the Alliance’s other new boys Red House Farm were beaten 3-2 at home by Wallsend Boys Club who leapfrogged over them into fourth spot. Zak Brogden scored both of the Farm’s goals but they were just edged out in the end. Two penalties confidently put away by Rob Haney kept the Boys Club in contention and their third goal scored by Chris Thompson proved decisive.
Meanwhile Swalwell passed a Preliminary Round test in the Durham Minor Cup, winning 5-4 against Etherley Welfare in a real thriller at Bishop Auckland. With the help of an own goal gift Swalwell made progress with strikes by Joe Adams, Chris Smith, Stuart Rook and Rob Beverley who scored the goal of the game with a 25-yard special.

NORTHUMBERLAND MINOR CUP HITS AND MISSES
Thirteen Northern Alliance hopefuls were trying their luck in the first round of the Ideal Stelrad Northumberland Minor Cup. Of these, six made an early exit while another six booked places in the next round along with Cullercoats who were waved through after scheduled cup hosts Chemfica Development defaulted.
There were three all-Northern Alliance ties in the County Cup’s first round with Tynemouth United, Hexham and Stobswood Welfare making progress at the expense of league colleagues.
Tynemouth won 4-2 away to Berwick United Ultras with their goals shared by Aaron Chalmers, Chris Wallace, Paul Gordon and Mike Murtha outweighing the scoring efforts of Berwick’s Sean Phillips and Andy Burgon. And Hexham were 4-1 victors away to Newcastle BT who scored first through Gregg Hamilton. A Scott Coates penalty got Hexham back on terms and the same player fired them in front before further goals w ere added by Steve Coates and Darren Dobson for the visitors.
Stobswood Welfare were 3-2 victors away to Newcastle East End and the other first round successes were achieved by Wallsend Town, Newcastle Chemfica and North Shields Athletic.
Goals by Sean Reid and Craig Burke earned Wallsend their 2-1 second round ticket away to Craster Rovers who were flattered by the finmal score. But both North Shields and Chemfica made more emphatic progress.
North Shields Athletic hammered cup visitors Longhoughton Rangers Reserves 8-1 with goals supplied by Dave Jeffers (hat-trick), Tom Cowx (2), Dave McDonald, Liam Bainbridge and Craig Boyle. And Newcastle Chemfica made the cut with a 6-2 victory away to Newcastle RVI Lochside. Martin Dixon and Steve Spence bagged a brace each for the winners and their other marksmen were Steve McLaughlin and Matt Harrison.
Including previously-awarded byes the following sixteen Northern Alliance flag bearers will be going into the draw for the NFA Minor Cup’s second round draw:
Tynemouth United, Cullercoats, Wallsend Town, Hexham, Stobswood Welfare, Newcastle Chemfica, North Shields Athletic, Amble, Cramlington United, Forest Hall, Morpeth Sporting Club, Red House Farm, Seaton Burn, Wallington, Whitley Bay A and Whitley Bay Town. Gosforth Bohemians could be joining their colleagues if they overcome cup visitors Newcastle Medicals in a rescheduled first round tie.

26th September
By Bill Gardner

Alnwick Town extended their unbeaten run in the league to nine games as their 4-1 victory away to Cramlington Town left them four points clear of chief rivals Ponteland at the head of the Premier Division table. The league leaders had beaten Blyth Town 1-0 at St James Park in midweek with midfield dynamo Kevin Elliot scoring their vital 34th minute goal. Under pressure from a couple of Blyth defenders he managed to slip the ball past keeper Scott Earle from just inside the area. Ian Herron was Blyth’s most dangerous player but spurned a chance to get his team back on terms before half time.
Three days later the Alnwick lads followed up with the 4-1 success away to Cramlington Town. Cramlington’s Chris Ridgway cancelled out James Swordy’s early opener for Alnwick but the visitors had Chris Moffat and Scott McMullen on target to give them a clear lead at half time. Ten minutes after the interval Alnwick keeper Michael Armstrong was stretchered off with a leg injury but Tom Vickers completed the winning tally in the 75th minute.

Ponteland United kept tabs on Alnwick by also retaining their unbeaten league record and claiming their fifth win on the trot, 2-1 away to Blyth Town. Jonathan Mann’s 100th senior goal gave Blyth a 40th minute lead. John Dunn equalised for Pont on the hour mark and also claimed United’s winner with ten minutes to go amid strong appeals for offside by the home side.
While defending champions Harraby Catholic Club were on County Cup duty Percy Main took advantage and leapfrogged over the Cumbrians into third place thanks to their 1-0 victory away to Gateshead Rutherford.

It may have been different if Rutherford’s Robbie Frame had not shot wildly over from an early Michael Jeffares cross. But the Main also had their moments and from a Jason Ritchie flag kick Dean Ellis volleyed only inches wide.

Percy Main keeper Rob Rodgerson then did well to keep out a downward header from home striker Dave Loughlin and the first half ended goal-less. With wind assistance after the break Percy Main began to flex their muscles with Dean Ellis, Michael Bowman and Pierre luc Coiffait, who fired against the woodwork, all going close to ending the deadlock.

With mounting Percy Main pressure a win was looking inevitable for the visitors but they had to wait until the 80th minute for their winner scored by Ashley Smyth. A long through ball from Pierre luc Coiffait sent him on his way and he finished with a low drive under home keeper David Bebbington.
Equal on points and now sharing fourth spot with Harraby, Shankhouse and Heaton Stannington are both showing signs of improvement. And Shankhouse were 2-0 winners at Murton where their hosts have been difficult to beat this term. Murton contributed to their own downfall by presenting their visitors with an own goal opener and the lead was then doubled by Lee Gustard.

Heaton Stannington have been unbeaten in their last three outings but were restricted to a 1-1 draw on their visit to Ashington Colliers who had just won two league games on the trot. Five minutes before the interval Michael Hogg put the Colliers in front but straight after the change-over Jason Bates got Heaton back on terms.

Stocksfield, with player Phil Murray in temporary charge of team affairs following John Wilson’s decision to step down as manager, were beaten 2-0 at home by Seaton Delaval. The visitors hadn’t won in the Premier Division since the first day of the season but gathered the points quite comfortably in this encounter. Stephen Howes ended 57 minutes of deadlock in Delaval’s favour and they coasted after Steve Anderson scored their second goal fifteen minutes from the end.
Wark’s home game with Walker Central was postponed due to waterlogging but Carlisle City and Harraby Catholic Club were in productive action in the Cumberland Senior Cup. Carlisle hammered cup visitors Parton United 8-0 with goals by Jamie Heath (hat-trick), Carl Murphy (2), Robbie Mather (2) and James Hartley. Harraby however needed extra time to secure a 2-1 win away to a young and useful Warwick Wanderers outfit. Their goals came from Matthew Thompson and Daniel Balmer.

DIVISION ONE – FIRST POINT DROPPED BY WHITLEY
With a surviving hundred percent record Hebburn Reyrolle are still in pole position in the First Division, two points ahead of nearest rivals Whitley Bay A with the same number of games played. But visitors Morpeth Sporting Club gave the table-toppers a tough time before being narrowly beaten 2-1. Simon Jacobs gave Reyrolle an interval lead but after 75 minutes his strike was cancelled out by Morpeth’s Martin Stanley. Only ten minutes remained when Ray Oshin slotted in the Hebburn winner.
Meanwhile at Hillheads Whitley Bay dropped their first points of this campaign and were held to a 1-1 draw by Gosforth Bohemians.
Beaten only once this term, Amble United are determined to hang onto the top two’s coat tails but have a six-point gap to bridge to keep their promotion plans on track. They assisted their cause again with a 3-0 victory at home to North Shields Athletic. All of the Amble goals came in the closing fifteen minutes of an otherwise close encounter and were scored by Darren Riddell, Sean Taylor and Josh Hay who netted right on the final whistle.

Fourth-placed Cullercoats slipped up and their four-match unbeaten run was halted by their 2-0 defeat at home by Newcastle East End. The East Enders had just lost four league games on the trot but took advantage of a poor performance by their hosts. Only a minute after the kick off they were fired in front by Ian Graham and in the final minute of the first half Craig Pleasant was on target to double their lead.

Newly-relegated Heddon are inching up the table, having won three of four most recent games. Away to Peterlee Town who had bowed out of the Durham Challenge Cup in midweek Warren Fisher’s lads looked very competent and ended up as 3-1 victors. David Potts and Kevin Urwin netted in the first half for Heddon and after Daniel Reid got the Newtowners off the mark Potts scored his second for the visitors to wrap up the points.

Still with no win to their credit, Chopwell Officials seem to have solved some of their recent problems and were good enough to limit in-form visitors Berwick United Ultras to a 1- 1 draw. Chopwell’s scorer was Dale Gibson and Dan Cornish replied for the Borderers.

Wallington secured their first home win by beating strugglers Forest Hall 5-1 at Scots Gap where they were three goals up at the interval thanks to John Paxton (2) and Justin Millican. Kyle Reardon then weighed in with Wallington’s fourth goal and after a token reply from the Hall’s Scott Parker the home side’s winning tally was topped up by Chris Martin. Unhappily for Forest Hall they are continuing to struggle in this division and are still seeking their first league point.

Stobswood Welfare had lost five successive games before entertaining Newcastle University but manager Tony Mather’s promise of a change of fortunes for the Welfare could soon be brought to fruition. They produced a much better performance to win 2-1 with both of their goals claimed by Adam Shanks. James Swainston replied for the Students who, on this form, won’t be expected to regain their former Premier Division status.

DIVISION TWO – WALLSEND TOWN IN SEVENTH HEAVEN
With eighteen points each to their credit, current leaders Wallsend Town and second-placed Newcastle Chemfica are heading the Second Division table. With three useful games in hand and a hundred percent record in six league starts Wallsend are holding all the early season aces and they dealt out a 7-0 lesson to hosts Seaton Burn. Leading 4-0 at the half way stage the Town proved unstoppable and the goals flowed freely from Craig Burke (hat-trick), Derek Graham, Mick Rankin, Sean Reid and Alex Downey.

Newcastle Chemfica have won four of their five home games to date after beating latest visitors Swalwell 6-2 and settling into second spot. Steve McLaughlin scored four of Chemfica’s goals against Swalwell with the others tucked away by Gareth Davies and Liam Naulls. Chris Smith and Adam McVickers netted for the losers who remained in the top half of the table.

Despite their run of successes Chemfica will still be looking over their shoulder at the likes of Tynemouth United, Cullercoats Custom Planet and newcomers Simonside SC and Red House Farm, all of whom are sharing third place with games in hand.

While Tynemouth were lying idle the other three all picked up maximum points to maintain their challenge and Simonside SC claimed an emphatic 6-1 home win against Wideopen & District whose single reply came from Nick Jefferson. Shaun Edwards was a match-winning hero for Simonside, bagging five of their six goals with the final tally completed by Lee Ditchburn.

Cullercoats Custom Planet were also in goal-hungry mood away to Willington Quay Saints and emerged as 5-3 victors in a real thriller. Drawing 2-2 at the break, the Planet had Martyn Hepple (2), Martyn Evans, Mark Henderson and substitute Andrew Gray on target. Michael Beever, Andrew Macbeth and Ian McCartney scored for the Saints who are still seeking their first home points.

Red House Farm were perfectly happy with their more modest 4-2 win at home to Amble who have lost all of their away games this term. Paul Newton-Eddy (2), Shaun Forster and Chris Mann were the Farm’s marksmen with Amble replying in vain through Sean Palmer and Jordan Giles.

Wallsend Boys Club were 3-0 down at Hexham to goals by Scott Robson (2) and Curtis Harvey but recovered to snatch a 3-3 draw. Rob Haney, Gary McGarrigal and Ben Pollock hit back for the Boys Club who could easily have picked up another two points for their second half performance.

Cramlington United hoisted themselves up three places and away from the basement by drawing 1-1 with visitors Newcastle BT who had Dan Sherliker putting them in front in the first half. A great Lindsay Collinson free kick salvaged a point for United.

Still without a win, Whitley Bay Town stayed put on the bottom rung after losing 3-1 at home to Northbank Carlisle. The Bay’s lone marksman was Andrew Laird and they were overshadowed by the Cumbrians whose goals were tucked away by Scott Thompson (2) and Andrew Rogerson.

19th September

by Bill Gardner
Current Premier Division leaders Alnwick Town cleared a major hurdle in style by beating 2008 winners Harraby Catholic Club 3-2 in the first round of the Kicks Leisure Challenge Cup at St James Park. The early stages of the tie saw two of the league’s form teams locked in a midfield battle but Harraby had Daniel Balmer volleying inches over and Mark Worrall heading narrowly wide. It was Alnwick’s Chris Moffet however who opened the scoring after 17 minutes with his low 20-yard drive.
Harraby levelled after 25 minutes when Balmer volleyed home Guiseppe Amato’s free kick at the back post. The home side’s lead was restored by Dale Kennedy just before the interval and he netted from close range when a poor back pass left Harraby keeper Jordan English exposed.
Harraby made another defensive error on the hour and this time Alnwick’s James Swordy fired into the bottom corner to leave the visitors with a mountain to climb. They reduced the deficit with a late Mike Swift penalty when Dan Wordsworth was fouled but fine goalkeeping by Alnwick’s keeper Michael Armstrong in the dying minutes ended any hopes of a Harraby recovery.
Having knocked out Challenge Cup holders Ponteland United in a preliminary round tie a fortnight ago, newly promoted Percy Main ended the hopes of six-time winners Carlisle City by beating the Cumbrians 3-1 in the first round at Purvis Park.
The Main had beaten the Cumbrians 1-0 in the league in an earlier clash at Sheepmount and City, keen to make amends, took the lead with James Hartley ending 70 minutes of stalemate. The Main pushed forward and were unlucky to see two near misses by Michael Bowman before Dean Ellis got them back on terms by heading home a cross from Malcolm Morien.
In extra time Carlisle’s danger man Lee Otway tested home keeper Rob Rodgerson with his shot on the turn and Bowman went close again at the other end with his drive striking the crossbar. But it was the Main’s Malcolm Morien who turned out to be the hero of the hour. He put his side in front by rifling in a great pass from Ashley Smith and bagged another goal in the second period with a header from Jason Ritchie’s flag kick.
Another two ties needed extra time to settle the outcome and Seaton Delaval were 2-1 victors at home to Wark with all the goals coming in the added half hour. Tom McAlindon gave the visitors the lead but Luke Newton levelled for Delaval and their winner was claimed by Steve Anderson.
In a real thriller at Monkchester, Walker Central clinched a 4-3 extra time win against Cramlington Town. First half strikes by Michael Strachan and Nabby Benny had put the Central well clear but after the break Cramlington hit back with three replies inside ten minutes from Jordan Watson, Steve Rylatt and Kieran Pearson.
In the 80th minute 16-year-old striker Abu Sallin rescued Walker with his equaliser and in extra time visiting keeper Frazer Nairn kept his side in the game with two outstanding saves. He was beaten however by Nabby Benny’s vital winner for the Central.
Last season’s losing Challenge Cup finalists Shankhouse stayed on course this time by beating Heaton Stannington 2-1 at Grounsell Park. Mike Bell’s opener for the visitors was cancelled out by Heaton’s Adrian Watson before the interval but the Shankhouse winner was put away by Lee Gustard midway through the second half.
Murton produced the first round’s shock result by beating hosts Ashington Colliers 6-1 with Liam Wintrip, Martin Blenkinsop and Nathan Ball bagging a brace apiece. And Blyth Town were lucky to make progress away to Gateshead Rutherford. Trailing to Kevin Hay’s early opener for the home side Blyth were presented with an 88th minute own goal leveller by Rutherford debutant Terry Veitch before Danny Beresford snatched their 2-1 winner only a minute later.
Despite having two players sent off in the second half, Killingworth Sporting hung on to beat cup visitors Stocksfield 3-2. Their winning marksmen were Paul Dunn (2) and Anthony Burns. Stocksfield, whose manager John Wilson stepped down last week, replied in vain through Pat Finnerty and Ben Pearson.

DIVISION ONE – HEBBURN PLAY THE WAITING GAME
With Percy Main having been promoted to the Premier Division, last season’s Pin Point Recruitment Combination Cup winners are out of the reckoning this time so a new name will have to be etched on the First Division trophy this term. Hebburn Reyrolle, who lost to Percy Main in the final last term, are waiting in the wings after their first round home tie against Morpeth Sporting Club was put back to 2nd October but fourteen of the other silverware hopefuls were in action.
Past winners Newcastle East End (2006) and Whitley Bay A (2009) met up at Millers Dene and the Bay completed a cup and league double by winning 2-0. Their goals were scored by Michael McMullen and Dean Porter.
Gosforth Bohemians, who lifted the Combination Cup three seasons ago, only had a brief flirtation this time and fell at the first hurdle, losing 2-1 to cup hosts Newcastle University. The newly-relegated Students had goals by Patrick Stokle and Ed Savitt earning them their second round ticket.
Cullercoats beat Chopwell Officials for the second time in this campaign, completing a double by dishing out an 8-0 cup lesson to their troubled hosts. Chopwell, hammered 10-0 in the League Cup up at Alnwick only seven days earlier, came under the cosh again and they seem to have an uncertain future. In a very one-sided tie Cullercoats piled on the agony and their goals were shared by Gareth Armstrong, Sean Smith and Phil and Craig Deighton with each of them bagging a brace.
Amble United also claimed an emphatic victory to make progress and, having beaten visitors South Shields United 1-0 up at Amble a fortnight previously, coasted to a 4-0 success in their latest meeting. Goals on either side of the interval, both scored by Josh Hay, put Amble firmly in the driving seat. Their lead was increased in the 85th minute by Darren Riddell and Hay went on to complete his hat-trick with a well-taken penalty in the dying seconds.
Heddon passed their first round test with flying colours and after beating Stobswood Welfare in the league at Bullocksteads they completed a double with their 5-2 cup victory in the reverse fixture. Adam Shanks and Chris Graham scored for the Welfare but their efforts counted for nothing. Heddon had a hat-trick hero in Kevin Urwin and two goals for Dan Robinson completed their tally.
Wallington booked their place in the Combination Cup’s second round by winning 2-0 away to Peterlee Town while Forest Hall, struggling following promotion to the First Division, celebrated their first win of the season. In the cup arena they emerged as worthy 3-1 victors at home to North Shields Athletic thanks to goals by Alan Knights, Matthew Smith and Neil Gibson with Craig Boyle claiming the Athletic’s single reply.
In the only First Division league game down for decision Berwick United Ultras beat visitors Morpeth Sporting Club 3-0 to climb into the top half of the table. Two of the Borderers’ goals were slotted in by Jamie Punton with the third claimed by Kieran Laverty.

DIVISION TWO – WALLSEND TARGET SILVERWARE AGAIN
Before gaining promotion Stobswood Welfare won the Pin Point Recruitment Amateur Cup, beating promoted colleagues North Shields Athletic in last season’s final. So with neither of these two sides involved in the competition this time around, previous winners Newcastle BT and Wallsend Town were fancying their chances on the first round platform
The Telecom lads were disappointed however and went down 5-2 at the initial hurdle, shown the exit by Seaton Burn. Greg Palmer found the net in each half for BT who were always in the hunt despite the final score-line. Goals for Ian Armstrong and Stephen Russell had given Seaton Burn a toe hold and when Chris Baker and Dave Hewitt were also on target in the last minute of the first half their goals were crucial. And for good measure Nicky Hara scored the Burn’s fifth goal in the 90th minute.
Wallsend Town, who lifted the Amateur Cup in 2001 and again in 2007, kept this season’s silverware options open. In two meetings with league newcomers Simonside SC this term the Town have banged in a total of eleven goals and they won 5-2 on this latest occasion. Derek Graham completed his hat-trick for Wallsend whose other two marksmen were Craig Burke and Sean Reid while Lee Ditchburn and Sean Flood netted for the losers.
In a repeat of an earlier league game at Bullocksteads which Tynemouth United had won 4-1 they emerged as 6-0 victors this time against visitors Red House Farm. Mike Armstrong, Aaron Chambers and man-of-the-match Lee Brady scored two goals each for United with Brady claiming his second from the penalty spot.
Swalwell had Dave Fitzpatrick and Chris Smith on target in each half to win 2-0 in their tie away to Cramlington United and Northbank Carlisle recorded the first round’s most impressive score in beating hosts Cullercoats Custom Planet 7-0. Scott Thompson (2), Fraser Vass, Lee Field and Luke Barwick were on the mark for the Cumbrians whose tally was complement by two own goals, both presented by the Planet’s Chris Wilkinson.
Wideopen & District made progress by impressively beating visitors Hexham with their 50th minute winner scored by Liam Forrest while Whitley Bay Town and Wallsend Boys Club both avenged earlier league defeats inflicted by their respective cup opponents.
The Bay were 3-2 victors away to Willington Quay Saints and had Liam Hudson to thank for all three of their goals. Glen Johnson and Gareth Pugh netted for the Saints who were leading 2-1 early in the second half. Meanwhile, Wallsend Boys Club won by the same margin on their visit to Newcastle Chemfica whose two replies were both put away by Liam Naulls. The Boys Club just edged it with strikes by Gilberto Chapin, Jordan Roberts and Leroy Odd.

12th September

By Bill Gardner
In one of only two Premier Division league games Heaton Stannington, beaten only once in their last six outings, climbed into third spot by beating visitors Wark 4-1. Wark’s Jamie Peel opened the scoring after 20 minutes but replies from Adrian Watson and Lawrence McKenna had Heaton leading at half time. Two penalties put away in the 75th and 90th minutes by Adam Donaghey and Kevin Carr made certain for the home side.
Heaton’s latest victory allowed them to leapfrog over Percy Main who have lost some of their earlier edge and were restricted to a goal-less draw with improving Blyth Town at Purvis Park. A game of few chances could have been settled by either side in the closing stages. After 89 minutes the Main’s keeper Rob Rodgerson who had rarely been in action pulled off a tremendous point blank save to deny Danny Beresford. And only seconds later the Villagers could have snatched a win but Malcolm Morien, put through by substitute Craig Culyer, wasted what was an ideal opportunity.
Most of the weekend’s other games were in the first round of the Kicks Leisure George Dobbins League Cup and there were three upsets involving teams from the top flight. Carlisle City, Killingworth Sporting and Stocksfield all fell at the first hurdle. And Carlisle, four times past winners of this trophy, were beaten 6-3 at home by their Premier Division colleagues Ashington Colliers. After opening the scoring through Mark Graham, City were never in the hunt thanks mainly to Mark Richardson who banged in five goals for the Colliers. Their sixth was claimed by Marc Pattie before Carlisle replied twice in the dying minutes through James Hartley and Lee Otway.
Killingworth Sporting bit the dust, losing 1-0 away to Second Division opponents Hexham whose 72 nd minute winner was put away by Thomas North. And Stocksfield lost out 4-1 away to Second Division leaders Wallsend Town. Derek Graham gave Wallsend a 20th minute opener and their lead was doubled by club captain Ryan Arnott on the half hour mark. But on the stroke of half time the Tynesiders had a player sent off for violent conduct and straight after the change-over Ben Pearson got Stocksfield off the mark. They failed to make their numerical superiority count however and Wallsend’s Craig Burke and Sean Reid added further goals to round off a major upset.
There were one or two close things for other Premier Division hopefuls and Gateshead Rutherford just edged through 3-2 away to cup minnows Cramlington United. Isaac Mitchell, Robbie Frame and Michael Jeffares netted for the winners with Paul Weightman and Lindsey Collinson on target for the plucky home side.
Shankhouse, cup winners in 2005, were given a scare by Second Division hosts Wallsend Boys Club before emerging as 4-3 victors. Jordan Roberts, Michael Starkie and Gary Shaw scored for the Boys Club but Shankhouse just shaded it with goals for Dave Dormand (2), Chris Rue and Mike Bell – three of them resulting from long throw-ins.
In other ties results ran true to form with Alnwick Town leading the way and inflicting a crushing 10-0 defeat on troubled visitors Chopwell Officials. Stephen Hogg found the net four times for Alnwick whose tenth and final counter came from substitute keeper Brian Brooks.
Seaton Delaval’s 55th minute substitute Craig Cook completed a hat-trick in his side’s 6-2 home win against Forest Hall while there were two goals each for Andrew Davidson and Richard Kent in Ponteland United’s 7-0 victory over visitors Cullercoats Custom Planet.
Successes against teams from the lower divisions also allowed Cramlington Town, Harraby Catholic Club and Walker Central to retain their interest in the League Cup. Andy Carr found the net in each half of Cramlington 2-0 cup win against visitors Morpeth Sporting Club and Walker Central had an identical success to knock out cup hosts North Shields Athletic with goals put away by Craig Bryce and Nabby Benny.
Harraby Catholic Club trailed to Chris Smith’s opener for Second Division visitors Swalwell but recovered well to clinch a 4-1 verdict. Daniel Balmer levelled for the Premier Division’s reigning champions on the stroke of half time and after the change-over there were two more strikes inside two minutes by Marc Shiel (penalty) and Balmer again for the Cumbrians. Their fourth goal in 65 minutes was claimed by Matthew Thompson with his curling drive into the top corner.

DIVISION ONE – ANOTHER SETBACK FOR THE EAST END
Only two First Division league games were down for decision and Newcastle East End suffered a fourth successive defeat, going down 4-3 at home to Wallington. Mark Lowson, Andy Graham and Ian Graham found the net for the East Enders but their efforts counted for nothing in the end. Wallington wrapped up the points and just shaded their hosts with telling strikes by Justin Millican (2), Jonathan Kimmitt and Mark Jewitt.
Late starters Newcastle University picked up their first points by beating Heddon 3-2 at Cochrane Park. After a goal-less first half two goals for James Swainston gave the Students a clear lead. Replies from Ben Haddock and Kevin Urwin revived Heddon’s hopes but they were dashed when the University’s winner was scored from the spot by James Ripley.
Amble United, Whitley Bay A, Hebburn Reyrolle, Peterlee Town and Cullercoats were all in goal-hungry mood to keep the First Division flag flying with successes in the First Round of the Kicks Leisure George Dobbins League Cup.
Amble United made progress by beating cup visitors Seaton Burn 4-2. Always in charge and assisted by an own goal gift the Seasiders had Greg Dance (penalty), Ross Gair and Brent Aisbitt on target while Dave Hewitt and Chris Baker scored for the losers.
Gosforth Bohemians were Whitley Bay A’s 6-0 victims in their tie at Benson Park where the Bay over-ran their hosts and had their goals provided by Ian Lee (2), Michael McMullen, Dean Porter, Sean Jobson and Jamie Lyndon.
Hebburn Reyrolle won the League Cup last season and got their defence of the trophy off to a promising start with a 5-2 first round victory away to Newcastle BT who scored first and last through Greg Hamilton and Dan Sherliker. In the interim Simon Jacobs bagged himself a brace for Hebburn and his colleagues Ray Oshin, Craig Watson and Chris Morris were also on the mark.
Peterlee Town showed the exit door to visitors and Second Division newcomers Simonside SC who were soundly beaten 5-1. Shaun Edwards was a lone marksman for Simonside and the Newtowners cruised through with first half goals by Andrew Harrison and Luke Wallace and second half strikes by Dave Paul, Kris Hope and Phil Hickman.
Cullercoats also comfortably made the Second Round cut in the League Cup after winning 5-0 away to Whitley Bay Town who had no answer to their visitors’ fire-power. Craig Deighton and Steve Hart bagged two goals each for Cullercoats who lifted this prestigious trophy in the 2008-2009 season and the nap hand was completed by Phil Deighton.

DIVISION TWO – CHEMFICA ARE CLIMBING
In the single league game played in the Second Division, Newcastle Chemfica inflicted a second successive defeat on hosts Tynemouth United who stayed in second spot despite their latest 4-2 set-back. Chemfica meanwhile moved up into third place thanks to a brace each claimed by Steve Spence and Steve McLaughlin while the disappointed losers replied through Scott Rowan and Chris Garwood.
Second Division hopes in the League Cup now rest on Wallsend Town, Hexham, Northbank Carlisle, Red House Farm and Willington Quay Saints who all cleared their first round hurdles plus Amble, Newcastle Chemfica and Tynemouth United who received byes.
Red House Farm maintained their interest with 2-0 victory at home to Stobswood Welfare with both of their goals claimed by Chris Davison and Willington Quay were more spectacular 4-1 winners against powerful First Division visitors South Shields United.
The North Tynesiders dominated the cup-tie and, had it not been for some excellent saves by United’s keeper Shaun Newbrook, his side could have suffered a much heavier defeat. The Shieldsmen’s only goal was a rather lucky 70th minute effort by substitute Kyle Yorston but at that point the Saints were already four goals to the good and Shields didn't look capable of mounting any sort of come-back.
Hard-working performances from Dominic Mossa, Adam Bell and Jevon Jull were the only positives on a very disappointing day for the South Tyneside outfit which didn’t please manager Gareth Allen.

LEAGUE CUP SECOND ROUND DRAW
With clubs receiving byes entering the fray, the revised Second Round draw in the League Cup is as follows with ties due to be played on Saturday 16th October:
Alnwick Town v Red House Farm; Amble United v Wallington; Ashington Colliers v Amble;
Cramlington Town v Walker Central; Cullercoats v Ponteland United;
Harraby Catholic Club v Tynemouth United; Hebburn Reyrolle v Seaton Delaval;
Hexham v Whitley Bay A; Murton v Wallsend Town; Newcastle Chemfica v Shankhouse;
Newcastle East End v Heaton Stannington; Newcastle University v Northbank Carlisle;
Percy Main v Peterlee Town; Wark v Gateshead Rutherford; Wideopen & District v Heddon;
Willington Quay Saints v Blyth Town

5th September

By Bill Gardner
Ponteland United stayed two points clear at the head of the Premier Division table despite being side-lined by their home tie against Percy Main in a preliminary round of the Kicks Leisure Challenge Cup. In the event the league leaders, who lifted this trophy last term, were beaten 2-1 by their visitors who had both of their goals claimed by Tony Browell.
Browell ended 52 minutes of stalemate with his headed opener from Dean Ellis’s corner kick and bagged his second only two minutes later. From another flag kick, this time curled in by Pierre-Luc Coiffait, Browell forced the ball home from close range. Richard Kent replied in the 85th minute for United from Gavin Wood’s cross before Dean Gate almost bagged an equaliser, his drive striking Rob Rodgerson without the Percy Main keeper knowing much about it.
Both Alnwick Town and Harraby Catholic Club claimed victories to leave them sharing second spot and Alnwick, yet to be beaten, were 6-2 victors at home to Gateshead Rutherford. Ben Keenan completed a hat-trick for the Town whose other scorers were Dale Kennedy, James Swordy and Stephen Hogg. Rutherford had Isaac Mitchell opening the scoring and their second reply came from Michael Jeffares.
Harraby extended an unbeaten run to six games by beating hosts Shankhouse 2-0. Shankhouse were twice denied by the woodwork in the first half but still trailed to two great early strikes by Mark Worrall for the Cumbrians. Worrall claimed his first after only eight minutes with a shot across home keeper Tony Deakin who was under pressure from Stuart Moffat and Daniel Balmer.
Then midway through the half Worrall was on target again to double Harraby’s lead. This time he beat Deakin with a swirling 18-yard effort from the corner of the area. Worrall in fact was close to completing his hat-trick on the hour but his chip over the keeper was disallowed for a handling offence in the build-up..
After two successive drawn games Blyth Town came good with a vengeance and beat visitors Heaton Stannington 7-3. Leading 4-0 at the interval, Blyth had Jonnie Mann claiming a hat-trick with Gary Day bagging a brace. Their other marksmen were new signing Ian Herron and Jeff Fuller. Heaton, who had inflicted a first defeat on Percy Main in midweek, were never really in the hunt this time despite having Adrian Watson, Kevin Carr and Michael Waggott on target.
In the meeting over in Cumbria between two sides suffering a recent loss of form Carlisle City were made to work hard for a 2-1 win against Seaton Delaval. Stephen Bell gave the home side a 17th minute opener, holding off two defenders and squeezing his shot past Delaval keeper Dave Herrington. City’s lead was doubled in the 34th minute with a cross-cum-shot from Jamie Heath which went in off the back post. Delaval were always threatening but had to be content with a single reply on the hour. Their goal was claimed by John Fitzpatrick whose header came off Carlisle’s Lee Otway on its way into the net.
Ashington Colliers climbed into mid-table with an impressive 3-1 victory at Wark where their goals were shared by Michael Hogg, Dave Brown and Jamie Patterson with Stuart Brown responding for the losers. And Walker Central secured only their second victory, beating visitors Killingworth Sporting 1-0. Liam Mulligan put away a vital 25th minute penalty for the Central and Killy’s attempts to get back on terms weren’t helped by the sending off of Liam Callaghan on the hour mark. This was an encouraging result for Walker manager Michael Jeffels who has admitted that his policy of bringing on talented youngsters may no equate to a tilt at the Premier Division title this time around. Mike has to be congratulated for his aims and his young charges are already repaying him with some sound performances.
Stocksfield also claimed their second win of the new campaign to improve their position in the basement and were pleased to beat visitors Murton 3-1. Liam Wintrip was Murton’s only scorer and their hosts sealed the points with replies from Graham Hudspith and Jack Wanless, the latter bagging a brace to mark his debut after transferring from neighbouring Wark.

DIVISION ONE – JOINT LEADERS SET THE STANDARD
At present, Hebburn Reyrolle and Whitley Bay A are setting an unmatchable pace as joint leaders in the First Division, each boasting hundred percent records in their seven opening games. And to reflect their neck-and-neck supremacy both of the front runners recorded identical 5-0 victories.
Hebburn’s nap hand was achieved at Scots Gap against Wallington who had picked up three points from their two previous games. They had no answer to Reyrolle’s fire power how ever and Channon North claimed a hat-trick for the winners whose other scorers were Simon Boyle and Mike Younger.
Whitley Bay A followed suit by hammering five goals past Stobswood Welfare at Hillheads where the goals were supplied by Dean Porter (2), Ian Lee, Craig Smith and Paul King. And while the Bay celebrated their seventh successive league win the Welfare were left bemoaning their fifth successive defeat.
In third spot Cullercoats are seven points behind the pace-setters following their 1-1 draw away to North Shields Athletic. Craig Boyle netted for the Athletic and the Cullercoats goal was put away by Craig Deighton who seems to be recapturing his form at an opportune time for the Seasiders.
There was an important 1-0 win for Amble United at home to South Shields United with both sides desperate to keep their promotion prospects on track. They’re now level on points although a game in hand could prove useful for Amble whose winner was tucked away on the stroke of half time by Brent Aisbitt.
Heddon reached the respectability of a mid-table slot thanks to their third win of the season, 4-2 against Newcastle East End at Bullocksteads. Regular marksman Ben Haddock bagged two of Heddon’s goals with the others provided by Danny Robinson and John Pearson. Replies from Andy Weeks and Richard Hoggins couldn’t prevent a third straight defeat for the East Enders.
While Chopwell Officials had their game at Forest Hall postponed by the league to allow them to sort out some recent problems, Newcastle University finally started their campaign but were beaten 3-1 at home by Morpeth Sporting Club. Will Deledicq netted for the Students but Morpeth secured the points with strikes by Luke Jamieson-Yip, Glen Gallon and Michael Halliday.
In a preliminary round of the Pin Point Recruitment Combination Cup there was a 2-0 victory for Gosforth Bohemians at the expense of Berwick United Ultras at Benson Park. Goals for Matt Atkin and Tavis Couling earned the Bohs a forthcoming first round tie away to Newcastle University.

DIVISION TWO – CUP WIN FOR TOWN AS RIVALS SLIP UP
Wallsend Town are sitting comfortably in pole position in the Second Division, equal on points with Tynemouth United but with a vital game in hand. A hundred percent record in five league games to date have put Wallsend in high spirits and, taking a break from league duty, they beat visitors Amble 1-0 in a preliminary round tie in the Pin Point Recruitment Amateur Cup. Derek Graham’s goal settled the issue and set up a first round home tie against Simonside SC.
While Wallsend Town were otherwise engaged, Tynemouth United had an ideal opportunity to nudge their rivals out of top spot. Instead, they slipped up and were soundly beaten 4- 1 at home by promising newcomers Red House Farm. Rob Nolan (2), Nathan Johnstone and Chris Davison scored for the Farm and Tynemouth were never really in the hunt had their late consolation goal put away by Scott Rowan.
Like Tynemouth, Swalwell could have improved their top-of-the-table ranking but stayed put in third place after being restricted to a goal-less draw by visitors Whitley Bay Town. The Town picked up their first point of the campaign but deserved more after giving a gritty performance against their strong opponents.
Fourth-placed Wallsend Boys Club paid for bad finishing against Northbank over in Cumbria and were beaten 1-0 by hosts Northbank whose physical style upset the Tyneside youngsters. The game’s single but vital goal was scored by Northbank’s Paul Fiddler only ten minutes into the game.
Probably the weekend’s most impressive win was achieved by Simonside SC as they beat powerful hosts Newcastle Chemfica 5-3. In what was an end-to-end encounter it was Simonside who came out on top with goals shared by Craig Lumley, Sean Flood, Dave Scroggins, Shaun Edwards and Kyle Riley. Chemfica played their part in a full-blooded clash but their replies from Steve McLaughlin, Phil Courtney and Liam Naulls weren’t quite enough.
Cullercoats Custom Planet had their scheduled home game switched to the ground of opponents Seaton Burn who had Nick Hara and Rob MacDonald on the mark to secure a 2-1 victory. And Newcastle BT’s 3-3 draw at home to Willington Quay Saints hoisted them clear of the basement. In what was their third recent draw the BT scorers were Greg Hamilton (2) and Anthony Bruce while Glen Johnson (2) and Mark Henderson replied to earn the Saints their share of the spoils.
There was another stalemate involving Wideopen & District and visitors Cramlington United which finished at 2-2. Nick Jefferson scored both of Wideopen’s goals and Dean Morgan and Paul Weightman found the net for Cramlington.

29th August

By Bill Gardner
Ponteland United, sharing the Premier Division’s pole position with Percy Main in midweek, emerged as clear leaders thanks to their 3-1 home win against Walker Central. A youthful Walker squad kept United on their toes but strikes by Scott Fenwick (2) and Harry Tulip gave the home side their fourth win on the trot. Liam Mulligan hit back in vain for the Central.
Percy Main maintained their unbeaten record but spilled two points in their 2-2 draw with Seaton Delaval at Wheatridge Park. The person the Main had to thank for this result was central defender Tony Browell who scored his fourth goal in as many matches.
The game turned out to be an evenly matched contest between two useful sides and it was the Main who took the lead midway through the opening half. Pierre-Luc Coiffait headed deftly past home keeper Dave Harrington from a flag kick.
After 26 minutes Steve Anderson got Delaval back on terms with his unstoppable equaliser giving Phil Hogg in the Percy Main goal no chance. This goal acted as a spur for Seaton Delaval who started to take control and they took the lead when Stephen Howes beat Hogg with his clever shot on the turn.
Only three minutes after the break Tony Browell rescued the Villagers, heading clinically home from Malcolm Morien’s well-taken corner kick. A draw was probably the right result although the Main had to rely heavily at times on the defensive skills of keeper Hogg and Mickey Haley, both of whom were outstanding.
After this minor hiccup Percy Main are now sharing second spot with up-and-coming Alnwick Town who are also still unbeaten following their 3-0 victory over visitors Murton. After Ben Keenan bagged himself an early brace for the Northumbrians they were presented with an own goal by Murton to complete their tally before the break.
Killingworth Sporting and reigning champions Harraby Catholic Club are continuing to show early promise and are only three points behind current leaders Ponteland. Both won again to keep the pressure on and Killingworth were worthy 3-1 winners at home to Carlisle whose bright start is now only a memory. All three of Killy’s goals were claimed by Liam Callaghan with Stephen Bell replying for the losers.
At home to Cramlington Town, Harraby found themselves trailing to first half goals scored by Jordan Watson and Dave Atkinson but everything changed after the break. Mark Worrall got the Cumbrians off the mark and then Cramlington had a player red-carded.
A controversial penalty for a handling offence on the line was then awarded to Harraby and after the visitors were reduced to nine men Mike Swift scored from the spot. It was then all over for Cramlington and late goals put away by Harraby’s Stuart Moffat and Worrall finalised the score at 4-2.
After leaking five goals in a midweek defeat at Walker there was some satisfaction for one-time leaders Gateshead Rutherford in their goal-less draw with visitors Blyth Town who had keeper Scott Earle in great form. Blyth had enough chances themselves to clinch the points but in the closing stages Graham Heath and Jonny Mann both wasted opportunities and Mark Waugh headed narrowly over from Richard Orr’s long throw.
Shankhouse are now showing promise, reflected in their 4-1 win away to Ashington Colliers. Two early goals for Michael Bell set the visitors up and, after Simon Cunningham pulled one back for the Colliers, later Shankhouse pressure produced a brace for Dave Dormand.
Heaton Stannington meanwhile have put their slow start behind them and deservedly beat Stocksfield 3-1 at Grounsell Park to climb into mid-table. Jay Bates, Lawrence McKenna and Michael Waggott shared Heaton’s goals with Stocksfield’s single reply coming from Eddie Brazier.
Meanwhile, the draw for the first round of this season’s Northumberland FA Senior Bowl has been announced and the pairings on 9th October will be: Amble United v Ashington Colliers; Alnwick Town v Heaton Stannington; Cramlington Town v Blyth Town; Killingworth Sporting v Ponteland United;
Newcastle University v Shankhouse; Percy Main v Heddon; Seaton Delaval v Wark and Stocksfield v Walker Central.

DIVISION ONE – HEBBURN AND THE BAY ARE NECK AND NECK
Hebburn Reyrolle and Whitley Bay A continued to set a hot pace as joint leaders in the First Division, both with hundred percent records so far. And Hebburn, with a slightly superior goal difference, kept the heat on with a 3-1 victory away to Heddon. All four of the game’s goals were scored in the second half when Ray Oshin (2) and Channon North netted for the winners with Dan Hathaway replying for Heddon.
Whitley Bay were happy with a slightly more modest 2-1 success on their visit to Newcastle East End with their fifth win on the trot being difficult to achieve. Paul King claimed both of the Bay’s goals, his first this season, and Craig Pleasant was the East End’s lone marksman.
The leaders are now five points clear of nearest rivals Cullercoats and South Shields United who are both on ten points. Cullercoats edged upwards with a 3-0 victory away to Forest Hall who are finding things tough after being promoted and are propping up the early table. They had no answer to their visitors’ fire power and were sunk by goals shared by Dave Fairless, Alex Burnett and Peter Bradley.
Having won three of their four previous games, South Shields United could only draw 2-2 at Wallington where their hosts had been stinging from four straight defeats. They came good on this occasion however and both of their goals were contributed by Kyle Reardon. Aristote Guerin scored from the spot to open the visitors’ account and in the 80th minute their equaliser was put away by Gary Newbrook.
Amble United’s hopes of clinching a fourth successive win to improve their promotion prospects were scuppered when their scheduled home game against Chopwell Officials had to be postponed. And Chopwell will be in trouble after failing to take a team to fulfil this appointment.
Peterlee Town have lost only once in five starts to date and that was against current leaders Hebburn Reyrolle in midweek. That disappointment was put behind them and the Newtowners were very convincing 4-0 victors at home to Stobswood Welfare. Andrew Harrison fired them into an interval lead and further goals were then added by Dave Paul, Chris Freeman and Darren Major. The only downside for Peterlee was the sending off of goal-scorer Paul with five minutes to go.
After securing only two points from this term’s first three games, Gosforth Bohemians have won their last two and beat visitors Morpeth Sporting Club 2-1. There was a goal each for Matthew Atkin and Andrew Roberts for the Bohs and Paul Grieveson replied for Morpeth.
Goals for Craig Heugh, Andy Bergen and Paul Wood earned Berwick United Ultras a 3-3 draw with visitors North Shields Athletic as both teams stayed level on points in mid-table.

DIVISION TWO – IT’S TOUGH AT THE TOP
Things are tight at the head of the Second Division table. Four teams – Wallsend Town, Tynemouth United, Newcastle Chemfica and Wallsend Boys Club – all have twelve points to their credit. All four are unbeaten while Wallsend Town and Tynemouth each have the added benefit of a game in hand.
All of the pace-setters won again in their latest outings and Wallsend Town, in pole position on the basis of goal difference, coasted to a 5-0 victory over hosts Wideopen & District who are still seeking their first point. In this top versus bottom clash the Town’s goals were supplied by Declan Graham (2), Ronnie Kay, Ryan Arnott and Craig Burke.
Tynemouth United were equally impressive in winning 4-0 at home to Northbank Carlisle who were in the Premier Division only three years ago. Hoping to be heading in the opposite upward direction, Tynemouth dished out a lesson to their Cumbrian opponents. But they had to wait until the last half hour for their goals scored by Aaron Chalmers (2), Stephen Matthews and Michael Armstrong.
Daniel Jacques helped himself to four of Newcastle Chemfica’s goals in their 6-2 home win against newly-relegated Seaton Burn with Paul Brown and Stephen Spence also on target. Nick Hara netted for Seaton Burn but even an own goal gifted by Colin Cooney couldn’t help them out.
Of the four current joint leaders, Wallsend Boys Club were the least prolific and were rather fortunate to claim a 1-0 verdict away to improving Swalwell. The home side had just won three league games on the trot and once again gave a good account of themselves. They were only killed off in the 85th minute by Andy McBride’s crucial strike for the Boys Club.
Hexham are now only a couple of points behind the pace-setting group and haven’t been beaten since their opening game at Seaton Burn. A 2-1 win at home to league newcomers Red House Farm was impressive considering their opponents’ record. After a goal-less first half Paul Newton-Eddy opened the scoring for Red House. Joe Stewart levelled for Hexham whose second goal tucked away by Tom Phillips settled the issue.
Cullercoats Custom Planet banged in five goals without reply at home to still pointless Amble and their scorers were Tony Fawcett (2), Andy McCartney, Mark Wilkinson and Martin Hepple. And Newcastle BT secured their first win, 3-2 at home to another of the early strugglers Whitley Bay Town.
Simonside S.C. have a very reliable goalscorer in Shaun Edwards who has found the net in every game so far while taking his personal tally to eight already this season. Edwards slotted in another three in his side’s thrilling 6-4 win away to Cramlington United with the others supplied by Andy Hunter, Mick Brown and Sean Flood. United also had a hat-trick exponent in Dean Morgan with their other reply coming from Craig Petrie.

22nd August

By Bill Gardner
Ponteland United are one of three teams – the others are Gateshead Rutherford and Percy Main Amateurs – sharing top spot in the early Premier Division table with unbeaten records so far.
United extended their early-season run with a 1-0 victory away to Stocksfield but neither side looked dangerous in a barren opening half. The deadlock was only finally ended after 70 minutes and in a goalmouth scramble from a Ponteland corner kick Scott Fenwick prodded the ball in from six yards. This was Fenwick’s fourth goal of the new campaign and Pont were thwarted on a couple of occasions later on with home keeper Shaun Sagar, preferred instead of Peter Adnitt on this occasion, fully deserving his man-of-the-match tag.
Due to a superior goal difference Rutherford are in pole position and a 4-0 victory away to Seaton Delaval extended a promising start by the top flight’s newcomers. Mike Jeffares opened the scoring on the stroke of half time and a second half hat-trick for Robbie Frame finished the job.
Newly-promoted Percy Main also had a good day and inflicted a first defeat on midweek leaders Carlisle City over in Cumbria despite travelling with only thirteen players. Natural leader Tony Browell was attending a wedding (in Carlisle!) and Graeme Cole and Steve Shadforth lined up only partially fit. In fact both had to be withdrawn early with recurring injuries.
The Villagers had keeper Rob Rodgerson and defenders Graeme Smith and Jason Ritchie in sterling form to repel several threats posed by City’s Ian Grainger in particular. And in the end the whole team’s efforts paid off handsomely for the visitors. The game’s single vital goal was claimed after 20 minutes by man-of-the-match Chris Doig who deftly controlled a cross-field ball from Smith to beat Carlisle custodian Twentyman from the edge of the box.
Defending champions Harraby Catholic Club bemoaned the lack of goal-line technology when, only nine minutes into their game at Murton, Mark Worrall’s 20-yard effort came down off the bar to clearly cross the line. The referee decided to award the goal but was over-ruled by his assistant.
Worrall however opened Harraby’s account only four minutes later to lay the foundations for an eventual 3-1 win. Mike Smith (penalty) and Craig Wood added further goals for the Cumbrians before Murton’s late consolation goal was claimed by Karl Garside.
After drawing their two opening games Alnwick Town earned their first victory by beating visitors Walker Central 2-1. This was a third straight defeat for the Central who were left propping up the table. Tony Brown and Chris Moffit netted before the break for Alnwick and Liam Mulligan replied in vain for Walker with his 70th minute penalty.
Killingworth Sporting also claimed their first win of the new campaign by beating visitors Cramlington Town 2-0 with goals by Conal Reed and Paul Dunn. And last season’s runners-up Wark finally clicked into gear after a disappointing start this time. They were 4-1 victors against Shankhouse at Northburn. Lee Telfer’s opener for Wark was cancelled out by Liam Jubb’s equaliser but Telfer’s second goal put the visitors in front again before the interval. John Stokoe banged in Wark’s third goal and Stuart Brown completed their tally with only seconds to spare.
Blyth Town were impressive 5-0 winners at home to Ashington Colliers who had picked up four points from their two previous outings. Only Gary Day’s 26th minute opener separated the two sides at half time but Blyth went on to boss the game.
Jonathan Mann doubled their lead with a close range effort from Day’s low cross and only a few minutes later Danny Beresford claimed Blyth’s third goal, heading home from a Neil Blades cross at the back post. Blades got in on the scoring act himself and lobbed his shot over the Ashington keeper to round off good work by his colleagues Graham Heath and Jonny Mann. And in the dying seconds Beresford was on target again for the Town when another effort from Mann was only parried out.

DIVISION ONE – HEBBURN KEEP THINGS TIGHT
Three teams – Hebburn Reyrolle, Whitley Bay A and South Shields United – are all on nine points after three games and leading the charge in the First Division. These could be the sides to beat for the other promotion aspirants this term.
Hebburn have scored eight goals in the process without conceding but had to settle for a 1-0 victory away to Cullercoats to keep their run going. In pole position on goal difference Reyrolle’s winner at the coast was scored by Craig Watson with only ten minutes to spare.
Whitley Bay A are fancying their chances of step ping up this term and their third win on the trot, 5-0 away to Morpeth Sporting Club, was impressive. Ian Lee helped himself to a hat-trick for the Bay and their remaining marksmen were Dean Porter and new comer Nathan Lajevardi.
South Shields United also had a hat-trick hero in their 3-1 victory away to Heddon. Kyle Yorston scored all of the Shields goals, two in the first half and one after the break. Heddon bagged a late reply through Ben Haddock but this defeat indicated how tough it might prove to get back into the top flight at the first attempt.
Newcastle East End, Amble United and North Shields Athletic are all tucked in behind the leading trio after they all picked up maximum points last weekend. Newcastle East End did the trick by beating visitors Berwick United Ultras 4-2 with goals supplied by Andrew Graham (2), Kieran Green and Craig Pleasant. It wasn’t quite as pleasant for Berwick whose replies came from Andy Bergen and Craig Heugh.
Amble United and newly-promoted North Shields Athletic secured identical 2-0 victories with Ricky Hume opening the scoring in their game at Forest Hall where their second counter was an own goal gifted by Forest defender Jamie Matthews. This was the Hall’s third successive defeat following their rather unexpected promotion from the Second Division.
After losing 1-0 at home to Whitley Bay A in midweek North Shields Athletic bounced back by beating visitors and promotion partners Stobswood Welfare 2-0 with goals for Matty Donkin and Liam Bainbridge.
Gosforth Bohemians drew 1-1 with Chopwell Officials at Benson Park where Andrew Thompson netted for the hosts and Rowland Lee replied to earn Chopwell their first point. And after two drawn games on the trot Peterlee Town made no mistake in beating visitors Wallington 4-0. Still pointless after three starts, Wallington were sunk by the Newtowners’ goals put away by Peter Crawford (2), Dave Paul and Chris Freeman.

DIVISION TWO – WHO’LL BE FIRST TO BREAK?
There are four surviving hundred percent records in the Second Division where Wallsend Town, Red House Farm, Wallsend Boys Club and Tynemouth United are setting a hot early pace.
These front runners were all in goal-hungry mood and probationers Red House Farm, settling quickly into their new surroundings, were 5-0 victors away to Newcastle BT. A sending off after half an hour didn’t help BT’s cause when they were already 1-0 down. Chris Davison weighed in with his hat-trick for Red House who also had Chris Mann bagging himself a brace.
Both Wallsend Town and Tynemouth United claimed 4-1 home wins with the Town accounting for Cullercoats Custom Planet with goals scored by Craig Burke(2), Declan Graham and Alex Downey. And Tynemouth, always expected to make their mark in this campaign, had Lee Garwood (2), Lee Brady and Aaron Chalmers on target to sink Seaton Burn. Chris Garwood saw his penalty saved by the Seaton Burn keeper and the visitors’ single reply came from Chris Baker.
Wallsend Boys Club picked up maximum points from a thrilling 5-3 home win against new boys Simonside S.C. The Boys Club were trailing 3- 1 at the interval following Simonside strikes by Shaun Edwards ( 2) and Sean Flood but staged a spirited recovery led by hat-trick hero Mike Starkie. Andy McBride scored a fourth for the home side and their tally was completed with a stunning 50-yard drive by Rob Haney.
Swalwell meanwhile have been enjoying an encouraging start this time around with two wins out of three and they comfortably beat visitors Wideopen & District 5-1. Mick Bell with his header from a flag kick and Adam McVickers scored in the first half to set up Swalwell for the kill and after the break further goals were added by Nark Fitzpatrick, Mike Hurst and Bell again with his second in the closing stages.
Newcastle Chemfica made it two wins from three starts by beating visitors Northbank Carlisle 2-1. A goal each for Gareth Davis and Phil Bone settled the issue in Chemfica’s favour with John Slaven pulling a goal back for the disappointed Cumbrians.
Hexham had Neil Tiffin scoring the game’s only goal in the second half at home to Amble to secure their first win while the Seasiders are still waiting for their first point. And Whitley Bay Town, also still pointless, lost out 4-2 to visitors Willington Quay Saints. Liam Hudson and Chris Fairley netted for the Bay but they came off second best when Glen Johnson (2), Andy Macbeth and Ryan Ferrira got on the score sheet for the Saints.

15th August
By Bill Gardner

Last seasons top three teams in the premier division harraby catholic club, walker central and wark all failed to make a winning start in the new campaign. And reigning champions harraby were soundly beaten 4-1 at home by seaton delaval.

Harrabys rob bainbridge hit the post with a headed attempt but it was delavals stephen anderson who opened the scoring midway through the first half. He ended a determined cross-field run with a 20-yard drive into the top corner.

Harraby got back on terms when a cross from stuart moffat was headed on by marc shiel to allow craig wood to volley home from ten yards. But then, when delavals john fitzpatrick miscued his shot, liam cairns pounced to poke the ball in and give the visitors an interval lead.

The second half was notable mainly for midfield skirmishes but on the hour jordan fry scored seaton delavals third goal from close range when the home defence failed to clear their lines from a flag kick.

Harrabys daniel anderton and shiel went very close to trimming the deficit but delaval still had the last word. Deep into stoppage time michael kennedy completed their tally by flicking the ball past the home keeper after fitzpatrick headed another corner kick down to his feet. And this was delavals first every victory at harraby, giving them something extra to celebrate.

Walker central fielded a very young side against first day visitors cramlington town and lost 3-2. Two goals for jordan watson, his second scored from the spot, gave cramlington an early boost but 16-year-old alex sallin opened walkers account with a tremendous 40-yard effort. Andrew carr restored cramlingtons two-goal advantage before another teenager mike strachan trimmed the deficit again for the central with two minutes to go.

Wark started the new campaign with a visit to newly-promoted gateshead rutherford and shared the spoils from a 2-2 draw. Mike jeffares opened the scoring for rutherford late in the first half but wark soon responded. Last seasons top scorer marc nixon put away a 52nd minute penalty to restore parity and scored his second to put the visitors in front. A gritty rutherford deserved something out of the game and isaac mitchell marked his debut with their equaliser.

There was another 2-2 stalemate featuring ponteland united and alnwick town at the leisure centre ground. The town were fired into a 15th minute lead by scott mcmullen who tapped in a square pass from dale kennedy after the latter beat the offside trap. But ten minutes before the break scott fenwick levelled for united with a daring diving header from david redheads cross.

Ponteland took the lead for the first time after 65 minutes when sean willis found the bottom corner from a free kick awarded for a foul on fenwick but alnwick quickly restored parity. They did the trick with a spectacular volley from their second half substitute stephen hogg.

Like gateshead rutherford, percy main were promoted last term and after a four-year lapse marked their return to the premier division with a 3-0 victory over murton at purvis park. Two goals inside two first half minutes scored by tony browell and michael bowman had the villagers leading 2-0 at the interval. And bowman, making his debut for the main after joining them from morpeth town, netted again straight after the change-over to make the points doubly secure.

Ashington colliers, who finished so strongly last season, took up where they left off and won 2-1 at home to killingworth sporting. After falling behind to paul dunns opener for killy the colliers hit back twice through mark richardson and david brown before half time and held onto their slender advantage.

Shankhouse left it late to clinch a 3-2 verdict against blyth town at northburn and a penalty miss by david dormand didnt help. Blyth had chris lisle and gary day on target but dormand (2) and chris rue replied for the hosts with two of their goals scored in the 87th and 89th minutes.

There was also a 3-2 win for carlisle city away to heaton stannington. City were always in front although they were reeled in twice by a competitive home side. Carl armstrong opened the scoring for the cumbrians only nine minutes into the game but ian mills got heaton back on terms just before half time.

Stuart kilgours 64th minute free kick restored citys lead but once again heaton responded with lawrence mckenna slotting in his free kick for their second equaliser. With six minutes to go however the issue was settled in carlisles favour when 17-year-old striker james hartley came off the bench to score their winner.



DIVISION ONE – REYROLLE LADS ARE ULTRA-SHARP
Berwick united ultras, renamed for their new campaign in the first division, made a bad start and were soundly beaten 4-0 at home by hebburn reyrolle. The visitors, bound to be one of this terms promotion favourites, had their goals shared by mike younger, shannon north, chris morris and simon jacobs.

Newcastle east end and south shields united also celebrated convincing victories on the first day. The east end beat newly-promoted visitors stobswood welfare 3-0 with goals by andy weeks, craig pleasant and wes richardson while south shields won 4-1 away to forest hall who were also promoted last season. New signing aristote guerin, recently released by wolves after suffering a bad injury, scored three of the south shields goals with the other supplied by richard pinkney.

Cullercoats got off to a flying start with a 3-1 success at home to chopwell officials. Dave fairless, craig deighton and steve hart (penalty) were the cullercoats marksmen with a single reply coming from michael seed for the visitors.

Two sides likely to be chasing promotion this time around amble united and whitley bay a met up at amble and the bay clinched a narrow 2-1 victory. Michael dance scored a third minute opener for the hosts and it was only cancelled out by whitleys michael mcmullen midway through the second half. Then with five minutes to spare dean porter netted for the bays late winner.

Newly-promoted north shields athletic were rather fortunate to claim maxim points at scots gap again st wallington. The home side forced eight or nine corners without managing to get on the score sheet and the athletic delivered a sucker punch in the 80th minute when craig boyles goal gave them an unexpected 1-0 win.

Gosforth bohemians drew 1-1 with first day visitors peterlee town who had peter crawford on target to cancel out matt atkins opener for the bohs. And heddon, freshly relegated from the premier division, kicked off their first division campaign with a 2-2 draw with morpeth sporting club at bullocksteads. Morpeths scorers were lee donnelly and karl snow den (penalty) and two replies from chris bell earned heddon a share of the spoils.



DIVISION TWO – NEWCOMERS ON CLOUD NINE
The second divisions new boys simonside sc and red house farm both won comfortably to suggest that theyll quickly adapt to their new surroundings. Simonside in fact are heading the table after hammering hosts newcastle bt 9-1. John elliott actually opened the scoring for bt but it was all downhill after that. Shaun edwards completed his hat-trick for simonside whose remaining scorers were sean flood (2), james roberts (2), ian hudson and craig lumley.

Though not proving as goal-hungry as simonside, red house farm were impressive enough in their 4-1 home win against cramlington united. They had scott mitchell bagging a brace and chris davison and zac brogden also on the mark while cramlington only mustered a single reply from sean chrisp.

Wallsend boys club made the brightest of starts by winning 5-0 away to wideopen & district with andy mcbride helping himself to three of their goals. The others to complete a nap hand in this curtain-raiser were supplied by rob hayne and mike starkie.

Having shown a vast improvement last season tynemouth united took up where they left off and banged in three goals without reply against hosts willington quay saints. Two goals put away by james mills had tynemouth in the comfort zone at half time and for good measure they went on to increase their lead. After the break lee brady banged in his sides third goal.
Wallsend town

cullercoats custom planet had a hat-trick hero in martyn hepple in their 3-2 home win against newcastle chemfica whose replies came from dan jacques and matt harrison. And there was also a 3-2 victory for northbank carlisle over first day visitors swalwell. Relegated northbank, back in the second division after a period of thirteen years, were in front straight from the kick off. Within only twenty seconds paul fiddler was put through and he made no mistake from just inside the box.

Swalwell levelled through darren turbitt when home keeper mark lightfoot dropped the ball and the visitors went 2-1 up almost immediately. Their left back joe adams sent in a curling cross from about 50 yards which sailed over lightfoots head and into the net.
Early in the second half northbank got themselves back on terms as a long throw from martin rickerby was headed on into the goalmouth and fraser vass was able to pick his spot.
There were only three minutes left when john slaven was put through by ross irving and he went round swalwell keeper grant scott to score a late winner for the cumbrians.

By Bill Gardner
Ponteland United and Alnwick Town added some gloss to their respective seasons by claiming prestigious items of silverware. Ponteland lifted the Alliance’s Kicks Leisure Challenge Cup while Alnwick added the Northumberland FA Senior Bowl to their trophy shelf.

Ponteland United took on past winners Shankhouse in the Premier Division’s Challenge Cup Final played at Killingworth and United’s 3-1 victory made a bit of club history. This was the first ever triumph in an Alliance competition for Pont who, since 1983, had appeared fruitlessly in six previous League Cup finals as well as being ‘bridesmaids’ in the Challenge Cup five times.

At Amberley Park it wasn’t plain sailing for Ponteland and Shankhouse looked the stronger in the opening half. Only two fine saves by United keeper Sam Harris-Green, replacing the injured Michael Havelock, kept the black-and-whites in the game. Just before the interval Ponteland had their first scoring opportunity when Richard Kent fired wide after charging down the middle.

United looked much brighter after the change-over and took the lead after 50 minutes when centre back Ross Phillips – the eventual man-of-the-match – scored with a bullet header from a well-placed free kick.
Shankhouse however, Challenge Cup winners in 2001 and 2002, came back strongly to equalise with fifteen minutes to go and another flag kick led to Michael Bell heading home. Despite some further threats from Shankhouse the game entered extra time with Pont introducing substitutes Andrew Davidson and youthful striker Scott Fenwick. The switches paid off and five minutes into the extra period it was Fen wick who restored United’s lead with a clever flick from a free kick into the area. And after only another five minutes the youngster bagged his second to make sure that Ponteland’s long wait for silverware was finally over.

Alnwick Town secured the Northumberland Senior Bowl by beating Northern Alliance colleagues Heaton Stannington 2- 1 in the final at Whitley Park. Their last success in this county competition was back in 1987 when current manager Albert Straughan was in the Town’s winning squad.

Tony Brown headed Alnwick in front five minutes before the break but after an hour Ben Telford’s powerful low drive from a corner kick got Heaton back on terms. Heaton were reduced to ten men by a sending off before extra time ensued and Alnwick had to wait until the second extra period for their winner put away by Mark Cockburn.

With Premier Division leaders Wark out of action, Harraby Catholic Club trimmed their lead to two points as the title race approaches a nail-biting climax. For the second Saturday running Harraby had their guns spiked by Ashington Colliers and after losing 2-0 at Ashington last weekend they were restricted to a 1-1 on their own patch. Harraby’s 39th minute opener was a David Wallace free kick which was deflected off the head of Ashington’s Scott Blandford to end up in the net. The Colliers’ efforts were rewarded after 76 minutes when Andrew Johnson levelled with an unstoppable 25-yard free kick.

Wark were set to complete their season at Bullocksteads this week against already-relegated Heddon and Harraby will then know what’s required to overtake their championship rivals. If Wark sign off with a win the Cumbrians would need another six points from their three remaining games to clinch the title. They were away to Shankhouse on Monday, at home to Newcastle University on Wednesday and complete their gruelling season with a visit to Heaton Stannington this Saturday.

While the title is being fought over by Wark and Harraby and with Walker Central certain to finish third, Blyth Town have just edged out Ashington Colliers on goal difference to take fourth spot, their highest ever ranking in the Premier Division. The Town brought the curtain down with a 2-1 victory over visitors Heddon but needed late goals to secure the points. Dave Edwardson had ended 80 minutes of stalemate in Heddon’s favour but Blyth’s Patrick Allen restored parity with five minutes to go and Chris Lisle scored their winner with the last kick of the match.

Carlisle City had to come from behind to snatch a 1-1 draw with visitors Killingworth Sporting who had been fired in front in the first half by Kevin Westphal. With only seven minutes remaining Tom Foster got City back on terms.

Four days before their daunting trip to face Harraby, Newcastle University were beaten 5-2 by Shankhouse at Cochrane Park. The Students, due to take the drop along with Heddon, had George Coyle and Ed Savitt on target but were well beaten in the end. Dave Dormand helped himself to four of the Shankhouse goals and the other was claimed by Mark Watson.


DIVISION ONE – RUTHERFORD ARE CHAMPS
The First Division title race went right down to the wire with all three promotion candidates recording last day victories. Gateshead Rutherford are the new champions, finishing one point ahead of runners-up Percy Main and four points better off than third-placed Amble United.

Rutherford, heading for their first ever season in the league’s top flight, signed off in this one with a 2-1 victory away to Gosforth Bohemians. Both of their first half goals were bagged by Kevin Hay to set up the celebrations. Danny Sherwood’s reply for the Bohs was his 200th for the Benson Park outfit and marked his retirement from the game.

Percy Main made sure of promotion after four years absence from the Premier Division by winning 3-1 away to Berwick United. The Villagers’ goals in a vital victory were shared by Pierre Luc Coiffait, Malcolm Morien and John Amos with the Borderers’ single reply coming from Simon Hargreaves.

The Main had gone down 1-0 to Chris Tate’s 75th minute strike for opponents Morpeth Sporting Club in the Northumberland Minor Cup Final at Whitley Park. Now however, with promotion in the bag, the Villagers have another opportunity to claim some silverware. This Saturday at Ponteland Leisure Centre Ground they will be taking on Hebburn Reyrolle in the final of the Pin Point Recruitment Combination Cup kicking off at 2 .00 p.m.

Because Percy Main didn’t slip up in their last league game, Amble United just missed the promotion cut despite bringing the curtain down with a 2-1 win away to relegation-threatened Northbank. Amble’s first half goals across in Carlisle were scored by Brad Wake and Paul White. In what was also their last game Sergio Royo netted for Northbank who will only retain the First Division status if fellow-strugglers Wallington fail to pick up a point from their two matches this week. The lads from Scots Gap were signing off with tough trips to Hebburn Reyrolle and Morpeth Sporting Club, two sides in the top half of the table.

Wallington were left praying for survival after losing 3-1 at home to Durham FA Minor Cup winners South Shields United. Ashley McAlpine gave the home side the lead just after the interval but their joy was short-lived. Two replies from Mark Davies put the Shieldsmen in front and they wrapped up the points with a penalty. Wallington had Alex Slack sent off for a handling offence and Tony Fenwick scored from the spot.

Seaton Burn are already relegated, having only picked up eight points from the entire campaign and in their final match away to Hebburn Reyrolle they were soundly beaten 4-0. The Reyrolle goals were supplied by Channon North (2), Simon Jacobs and Ray Oshin.

DIVISION TWO – STOBSWOOD WIN PROMOTION
The Second Division title was secured a couple of weeks ago by North Shields Athletic with a couple of games to spare and the second promotion slot has been filled by Stobswood Welfare who finished well clear of third-placed Forest Hall. In their penultimate game of a long and strength-sapping season the Welfare won 2-1 away to wooden spoonists Whitley Bay Town. Paul Smith and Josh Hay were Stobswood’s marksmen and Liam Hudson claimed the Bay’s token reply.

Cramlington Blue Star could avoid a bottom two finish but only if they take a point from their last game away to Stobswood and that may be a tall order. The Star were soundly beaten 4-0 in their second last game at home to Wallsend Boys Club who have been impressive in the last few weeks of the campaign. At Cramlington the Boys Club’s goals were supplied by Chris Thompson (2), Michael Starkie and Rob Nolan who scored with a helpful deflection.

If Cramlington do manage to get something out of their clash with Stobswood they’ll leapfrog over Cullercoats Custom Planet in the basement with the Planet just ahead of their fellow-strugglers on goal difference. The Cullercoats lads failed to rescue themselves against Hexham and were beaten 4-0 at Wentworth Park. Mark Gibson bagged a brace for the mid-table hosts and their tally was completed with strikes by Curtis Harvey and Steve Coates.

By Bill Gardner
With six games outstanding and with the Premier Division title still in their sights as they continue to wade through a strength-sapping backlog, Harraby Catholic Club encountered a hitch. They were 4-1 victors against visitors Murton in midweek when Marc Shiel (2), Mike Swift and Aaron Roberts bagged their goals. But the Cumbrians were brought back to earth and were then beaten 2-0 by hosts Ashington Colliers who they entertain this Saturday in the return fixture. Mark Richardson had scored the only goal in Ashington’s 1-0 win away to Alnwick Town as the latter finished their own season. And it was Richardson again who gave the Colliers an early opener against Harraby with their second goal being a stoppage time penalty put away by Scott Smith.

Harraby, due to entertain defending champions Walker Central this week, had their disappointment eased when their title rivals Wark drew 4-4 with their bottom rung visitors Newcastle University. In their previous outing at Ponteland, Wark had only been saved from defeat by Matthew McLoughlin’s equaliser after Richard Ken t had put Pont in front. Against the University the Wark goals were shared by Mark Wright, Phil Thompson, Marc Nixon and Daniel Carter. Ed Savitt (2), Dave Kewn and Andy Hartley struck for the Students who, despite their heroics against the current league leaders, are still facing relegation along with Heddon.

Wark will be ending their campaign away to Heddon next Wednesday night but drawing half of their last ten Premier Division games could have cost them the championship.

Last Monday night’s game against Harraby across in Cumbria was set to be the last for defending champions Walker Central. They had hoped for a top two finish to pave the way for promotion to the Northern League but with Harraby and now Ashington Colliers snapping at their heels their ambitions may be thwarted. The Tynesiders could learn their fate this week.

Stocksfield switched their scheduled home game from Prudhoe to the Leisure Centre base of opponents Ponteland United and ended up losing 4-0. The first half ended goal-less but there was then a three-goal blast from Pont who had Joe Dawson, Scott Fenwick and Paul Hodgson all on target in the space of six minutes. Fenwick completed the scoring with his second of the match in the 84th minute.

Shankhouse, fifth from bottom in the current rankings after only winning one of six most recent games, effectively ended Heaton Stannington’s title hopes last Wednesday night by beating their opponents 2-1 at Northburn. Gifted an early own goal by Heaton’s Ben Telford, they had Anth Moran doubling their lead before Christian Collins pulled a goal back for the visitors.

The Shankhouse lads then had to settle for a 1-1 draw away to Killingworth Sporting. Ex-Walker Central striker David Dormand fired the visitors into an interval lead but Jorge Bollado then weighed in with Killy’s equaliser. And Shankhouse were due back at Amberley Park in Killingworth this week to take on Ponteland United in the Premier Division’s Kicks Leisure Challenge Cup Final.

DIVISION ONE – RUTHERFORD CONFIRM PROMOTION
It’s now certain that either Gateshead Rutherford or Percy Main will end up as First Division champions with Amble United possibly just missing out. In their penultimate game away to Berwick United, Rutherford won 4-1 to confirm their promotion with goals by Kevin Hay (2), Michael Jeffares and David Loughlin while Chris Falconer was Berwick’s lone marksman. Meanwhile title rivals Percy Main are only a point worse off and are up at Berwick this Saturday while Rutherford ending their campaign simultaneously away to Gosforth Bohemians.

Amble United were once backed for promotion this term but the third-placed Seasiders have suffered a dip in form at a critical stage, only picking up three points from four games prior to last weekend’s visit of Hebburn Reyrolle. United did well to beat their powerful opponents 1-0 with a 59th minute strike by Ian Common but the damage had already been done.

Whitley Bay A stayed in fourth spot and were in top form to hammer Chopwell Officials 8-1 at Hillheads where Dean Porter banged in four of their goals. Simon Reay bagged himself a brace in this one-sided encounter and the Bay’s other marksmen were Michael McMullen and Jack Walker. Games away to Seaton Burn and Hebburn Reyrolle will complete Whitley’s season and they’ll have fallen well short of promotion.

Events at the bottom of the First Division table have now come into focus with Seaton Burn already doomed to relegation after only winning two games in this campaign. The Burn were beaten once again, 2-1 by visitors South Shields United, and they are now bound to finish on the bottom rung.

The remaining dreaded relegation slot will be filled by Newcastle East End, Wallington or Northbank with only a single point separating the three strugglers.

Northbank did themselves a massive favour by beating Wallington 1-0 at Scots Gap with a Lee McDermott goal, his first of the season and this result could turn out to have ensured the Cumbrians’ continued First Division status.

Newcastle East End however stayed in trouble after losing 3-1 away to Cullercoats whose goals were supplied by Alex Burnett, Stewart Wright and David Owen. And the remaining crucial fixtures at the bottom of the table are: Hebburn Reyrolle v Newcastle East End, Northbank v Gosforth Bohemians, Northbank v Amble United, Wallington v South Shields United and Hebburn Reyrolle v Wallington. However, if Newcastle East End lose in their final clash away to Hebburn Reyrolle they’ll be joining Seaton Burn in taking the drop.

DIVISION TWO – STOBSWOOD IN THE OVERTAKING LANE
Second Division champions North Shields Athletic will be ending their successful campaign with a visit to Wallsend Town this Saturday in a game where only local pride is at stake. Second-placed Amble brought their curtain down in disappointing fashion by losing 1-0 away to Newcastle Chemfica whose winner was put away by Mark Fenwick. And Amble can only watch now as Stobswood Welfare threaten to claim the second promotion space in the lower division.

With four games still to play the Welfare are only three points short of Amble’s final total and are unlikely to waste this perfect chance of stepping up. The Welfare continued their late-season climb by beating hosts Wallsend Boys Club 3-1. Their goals, two of them from set pieces, were scored by Mark Sinclair, Josh Hay and Paul Smith with Rob Nolan replying for the losers.
The Welfare can book themselves a new life in the First Division by picking up only another four points from outstanding games against Hexham (home), Swalwell (home), Whitley Bay Town (away) and Cramlington Blue Star (home). They were capable of achieving their target this week.

Both Cramlington Blue Star and Cullercoats Custom Planet look like finishing in the bottom four in their first season in the Northern Alliance. But when the two met up at Cullercoats last weekend Cullercoats recorded a resounding 8-2 victory. The Planet’s marksmen were Martin Hepple (hat-trick), Andy McCartney (2), Kevin Knox ( 2) and Nigel Morris and the Blue Star’s replies came from Johnny Wardle and Sam Robinson.

Wallsend To wn’s promotion bid may have come to an end but in their penultimate game of the season they hammered hosts Newcastle BT 10-0 with five of their goals tucked away by Paul McCutcheon. Their other scorers were Liam Bell ( 2), Ryan Arnott, Ben Miley and Martin Nicholson.

Wideopen & District finished in the top half of the table despite losing their final game, going down 2-1 at home to Swalwell. The Swalwell goals were both claimed by Matthew Scott and Paul Booth scored his first of the season for Wideopen.

By Bill Gardner
While front runners Wark were lying idle, Walker Central had a chance to nudge their rivals out of pole position but things didn’t go according to plan. The Central slipped up, only managing a 1-1 draw at home to Heddon who are facing a drop into the First Division.

A John Campbell free kick took a wicked deflection to guide the ball into the net for Walker’s opener. Heddon responded with an equaliser from Peter Holland and had to be given credit for hanging on after having Dave Tremble red-carded in the 70th minute.

The main threat to Wark’s hopes of claiming their first Premier Division title is now being posed by Harraby Catholic Club who stormed to a 5-0 victory over third-placed visitors Heaton Stannington. Two goals up after only eight minutes thanks to Aaron Roberts and Andy Douglas, Harraby never let up and James Earl increased their lead with a tremendous 35-yard volley before the interval. Earl went on to complete his hat-trick with another long range strike and an 87th minute penalty.

The result all but ended Heaton’s title hopes although they’re still capable of a top two finish while Harraby still have hopes of catching current leaders Wark. The Cumbrians have nine games outstanding but may find their tough schedule taking its toll before the finish line.

Both Blyth Town and Murton are finishing strongly with Ashington Colliers also hoping to clinch a place in the top six. All three secured maximum points and Blyth were 4-1 victors away to Stocksfield.
Over an hour of stalemate was ended by Blyth’s opener scored by Neil Blades when he was put through by Gary Day. The Town’s lead was then doubled after 78 minutes when Mark Waugh’s cross behind the home defence allowed Damon Mullen to pick his spot.

Stocksfield responded almost immediately and Scott Johnson trimmed the deficit, tapping in the rebound after Blyth keeper Scott Earle blocked his first effort. But another two Blyth strikes inside the last ten minutes put the seal on their victory. For the first Chris Lisle netted from close range from Danny Beresford’s low cross and the tally was completed when Rob Eastway chipped over the home keeper from Beresford’s headed pass.

Murton made it five wins on the trot at the expense of hosts Carlisle City who were soundly beaten 4-0. First half strikes by Karl Garside and Marc Smith put Murton in the driving seat and there was no way back for City after Stephen Turner bagged himself a second half brace.

Ashington Colliers were fairly comfortable 3-2 winners at home to Newcastle University who will be filling the other relegation slot along with Heddon. Marc Pattie and Jamie Patterson (2) found the net for the Colliers and the Students’ replies were both claimed by Ed Savitt deep in stoppage time.

Games in hand could improve the position of Shankhouse, currently third bottom, but despite having Chris Rue and James Blacklock on target within five minutes of the kick off they were finally beaten 5-3 by Alnwick Town at Northburn. Martin Roper completed Shankhouse’s tally but Alnwick came back with a vengeance with goals by Richie Brown (2), Mark Baston, Neil Jefferson and Tony Brown.

Killingworth Sporting had Anthony Burns on the mark to beat visitors Seaton Delaval 1-0 and Ponteland United won by the same narrow margin at home to Cramlington Town. United’s 15th minute winner was put away by Dean Gate.

Next Monday night at Amberley Park in Killingworth, Ponteland United and Shankhouse have a chance of claiming a prestigious item of silverware when they come face to face in the Kicks Leisure Challenge Cup Final kicking off at 7.00 p.m. Shankhouse have lifted this trophy on two previous occasions in 2001 and again in 2002 but Ponteland are still waiting for a first success after five abortive cup final appearances.

Seaton Delaval have announced that they are seeking a new club secretary for next season, inviting interested parties to contact either Bill Fellows on 01670-731833 or Phil Hildreth on 0191-2373237.

DIVISION ONE – TWO-HORSE RACE FOR THE TITLE
Percy Main may need to win both of their remaining games – at home to Morpeth Sporting Club and away to Berwick United – to claim the First Division title ahead of Gateshead Rutherford. The Villagers have been unbeaten in their last seven games as they target the major prize and promotion back to the top flight. And they were impressive once again in their 5-1 success away to lowly Northbank. Graeme Smith fired the Main into a slender interval lead but they overpowered their Cumbrian hosts after the changeover. Jon McEnaney, Malcolm Morien and Chris Doig also found the Northbank net before Smith scored again to complete the tally. Matt Read was the home side’s only scorer. Second-placed Gateshead Rutherford were lying idle after their narrow 4-3 home win against Wallington in midweek but look like at least pipping Amble United in the race for the second promotion slot. They will be ending their campaign with three away games against neighbours Chopwell Officials, Berwick United and Gosforth Bohemians.

Amble United in third place look like losing out on promotion and have picked up only three points from their last four outings, going off the boil at a critical time. They were beaten 3-0 at home by Morpeth Sporting Club in midweek before drawing 3-3 at Hillheads against fourth-placed Whitley Bay A whose scorers were Michael McMullen, Josh Brooks and Jamie Lyndon.

At the bottom end of the table four teams – Seaton Burn, Northbank, Wallington and Newcastle East End – are all involved in a last ditch battle to avoid the drop with two of these hoping to rescue themselves. Seaton Burn are in the gravest danger and a 3-0 defeat at Chopwell didn’t help as they were sunk by goals put away by Dave Fitzpatrick, David Purdy and Rowland Lee.

Northbank’s hammering by championship candidates Percy Main didn’t help their cause while Wallington and Newcastle East End also emerged pointless from their respective games. Wallington had Nat Williamson on target at home to Peterlee Town but went down 2-1 after conceding goals to the Newtowners’ Peter Crawford and John Pyle.

Newcastle East End scored three times away to Morpeth Sporting Club, only to be finally and narrowly beaten 4-3 by their hosts whose winning marksmen were Richard Latimer (2), Dean Nicholson and Chris Tate. Meanwhile, Berwick United’s recent losing streak was extended by their 2-0 downfall away to Cullercoats with both of the winners’ goals tucked away by Alex Burnett.

After beating midweek visitors Whitley Bay A 1-0 with a goal by Alex Chapman, South Shields United showed their frugality again with another single goal victory at home to Gosforth Bohemians. This time their important 65th minute clincher was down to Adam Bell.

DIVISION TWO – NORTH SHIELDS ARE CHAMPS
With a game to spare and unbeaten on their own patch this term, North Shields Athletic have been crowned as Second Division champions but still had a bitter-sweet week. Last Thursday at Swalwell the Athletic lost out to Stobswood Welfare in the Pin Point Recruitment Amateur Cup Final. The Welfare were 2-0 winners to lift the silverware and were headed in front by Steve Gibbard after 40 minutes. And despite having a player sent off midway through the second half the Stobswood lads refused to give way and a second strike by Gibbard six minutes from the end was conclusive.

North Shields’s disappointment was short-lived and two days later their 2- 1 home win against Newcastle Chemfica was enough to hand them the title. Goals for Matt Donkin and Michael Hall did the trick with Chris Lockerbie replying in vain for the visitors.

Amble are favourites to earn promotion along with North Shields and only Stobswood Welfare with several games in hand can thwart their ambition. Things went Amble’s way when Wyn Fremlin’s brace earned them a 2-1 verdict away to Cullercoats Custom Planet while Stobswood were beaten 2-1 at Forest Hall. Mark Knights claimed both of Forest Hall’s goals to keep them in third place with Jonathan Towns scoring for the losers.

If Amble manage to win both of this week’s home games against Stobswood and then Tynemouth United they’ll have kept their promotion bid on track but it may be a tall order and things could yet go to the wire. And Forest Hall could even come into the reckoning.

At the wrong end cof the Second Division rankings Whitley Bay Town are still propping up the table but could yet lift themselves off the bottom rung. After three straight defeats Whitley produced an impressive performance to secure a 3-0 victory at Swalwell. Star man Liam Hudson bagged two of the Bay’s goals with the other supplied by Chris Atkin.

In their second from last game at home to Willington Quay Saints there was a 4-3 win for Wideopen & District. The Saints made a losing end to their own campaign despite having Mike Beever, Chris Lowes and Gareth Pugh on target and haven’t won away from home in the entire season. Wideopen picked up the points with strikes by Liam Jubb ( 2 ), Adam Walker and Dave Heatley.

With two games to go Wallsend Boys Club extended an unbeaten run to six matches with a 4-0 victory away to Hexham, becoming the first team to win at Wentworth Park this term. Andy McBride bagged a brace for the Boys Club whose other scorers were Chris Thompson and Rob Nolan.

Sam Robinson netted for Cramlington Blue Star in their 1-1 draw with visitors Newcastle BT whose reply came from Kevin McDougal. And Tynemouth United marked their last home game with a 5- 1 victory over Wallsend Town whose sole scorer was Ryan Arnott. Lee Garwood was a hat-trick hero for United who also had Kris Whillis and Lee Brady finding the net.

By Bill Gardner
Ponteland United’s manager Jarrod Suddick is hoping that a horrendous injury list clears up to some extent before he leads his side out at Killingworth on 17th May to take on Shankhouse in this season’s Kicks Leisure Challenge Cup Final.

Pont also have six league games to plough through which doesn’t exactly improve the situation and Suddick had to give himself a first start of the campaign to face Killingworth Sporting at the Leisure Centre Ground.

The Ponteland boss made the brightest of starts and gave his side the lead only five minutes after the kick off. Utility player Lewis Shiels sent in a great cross that cleared Killy’s back line and, after controlling the ball with his thigh, he calmly picked his spot wide of the visiting keeper.

Neither side excelled aftert the interval but with twenty minutes to go the black-and-whites scored a second goal to wrap up the points. It was a first of the season for Kevin McGorie who had been sidelined by injury for a year-and-a-half.

This was a much improved display of late by Pont whose man-of-the-match was Ross Phillips but there was also a downside. Keeper Michael Havelock sustained fractures to two of his fingers in the first half and will miss the rest of the season including the Challenge Cup Final.

While Premier Division leaders Wark were standing idle, Walker Central drew level on points with their rivals although Wark now have three games in hand. Walker’s 1-0 victory at home to third-placed Heaton Stannington was a massive result for Mike Jeffels’ side who are hoping for a top two finish and promotion. Their vital 80th minute winner was scored by Paul Chapman.

Both Heaton and Harraby Catholic Club are still threatening Walker Central’s hopes due to their games in hand and Harraby made it five home wins on the trot by beating Blyth Town 2-1. Blyth’s Martin Robinson cancelled out Daniel Wordsworth’s opener for the Cumbrians to make it all square at the break. After 76 minutes Andrew Douglas struck to seal the points for sixth-placed Harraby who still have eleven games outstanding.

Although they’re out of the running, Murton are finishing their season with a bang and have climbed up to fifth spot. With only two games left they made it four wins on the trot, defeating hosts Seaton Delaval 3-1. Two first half goals for Stephen Turner put Murton in charge and he went on to complete his hat-trick after Luke Newton got Delaval off the mark.

Like Murton, Ashington Colliers are finishing strongly and have lost only one of their nine most recent league games. The Colliers kept their run going with a 2-1 win away to Shankhouse who opened the scoring through David Dormand straight after the interval. Joe Moscrop quickly restored parity and Marc Richardson snatched Ashington’s winner with only a minute to spare.

After drawing their last three games at Sheepmount, Carlisle City picked up maximum points with an impressive 3-1 victory over visitors Alnwick Town. Dan Gawith fired City into a half time lead and later goals were added by Chris Major and Stuart Hill before Tony Brown claimed Alnwick’s 73rd minute consolation goal.

Newcastle University only have the slenderest of chances of avoiding the drop along with Heddon who are now doomed to finish in one of the bottom two places. The University went down to Jordan Watson’s single early goal for hosts Cramlington Town and haven’t won a league game since last November. And it looks as though the Students will be going through the trapdoor after spending ten years in the league’s top flight. Sadly they have been almost perennial strugglers at this level.

Heddon lost 3-2 at home to Stocksfield but should of at least had a share of the spoils. After Anthony McDonald put Stocksfield in front Heddon snatched the lead with replies from Dave Tremble and Ben Haddock. An own goal gifted by Andrew Hall got the visitors back on terms and their winner was put away by Phil Murray in the dying seconds.


DIVISION ONE – RUTHERFORD FEEL THE HEAT
The fascinating battle for the title in the First Division is continuing with Percy Main holding the aces but with several crucial games still to be played. The Villagers nudged Gateshead Rutherford out of pole position and went two points clear thanks to their 2-0 victory away to lowly Newcastle East End who were sunk by goals by Malcolm Morien and John Amos.

A second defeat on the trot has harmed Gateshead Rutherford’s chances and after losing 1-0 against Percy Main in midweek they were beaten 4-2 by Whitley Bay A at Hillheads. Ian Lee with his hat-trick inflicted the major damage for Whitley whose remaining goal was put away by Sean Jobson. Richard Biggs and Craig Horsfall responded in vain for Rutherford, three of whose four remaining games are away from home.

Amble United, Whitley Bay A and Hebburn Reyrolle haven’t ruled themselves out yet and all three are eying up possible promotion if any of the current favourites slip up in the final stages of this long campaign. Amble United however have drawn their last two matches and featured in a goal-less stalemate away to Gosforth Bohemians.

Whitley Bay A and Hebburn Reyrolle are each relying on games in hand to boost their chances of sneaking up on the rails with Hebburn having a massive eleven games to fit in, including two cup final appearances.

The Hebburn lads haven’t lost a league game since last September and they extended an unbeaten run to twelve games with their 3 -1 victory away to Morpeth Sporting Club. Ray Oshin, Channon North and Simon Jacobs were their scorers with Richard Latimer scoring Morpeth’s consolation goal.

Durham FA Minor Cup winners South Shields United are just playing out their season but applied the brakes to improving Peterlee Town and restricted their visitors to a 0-0 draw. And a very weakened Chopwell Officials team did well to beat Wallington 2-1 at Scots Gap. Chopwell only had the bare eleven players to kick off the game including manager Alan Brown who was taken off injured after only ten minutes. The depleted visitors showed a lot of spirit which was rewarded with goals by Lee Best (penalty) and veteran Kevin March. Tom McPherson came up with an 80th minute reply for Wallington but they looked very jaded in this encounter.

Northbank leapfrogged over Newcastle East End in the basement to give themselves a chance of avoiding the drop and the Cumbrians’ 3-2 home win against Cullercoats was hugely welcomed. Tom and Ross Irving along with Paul Fiddler netted for Northbank with both of the Cullercoats replies by Peter Bradley scored from the penalty spot. Thanks to a Chris Baker goal and a brace claimed by Steven Lee on his home debut, Seaton Burn drew 3-3 with Berwick United but stayed stranded on the bottom rung and now face the real possibility of dropping through the relegation trapdoor.


DIVISION TWO – ATHLETIC READY TO CROSS THE LINE
North Shields Athletic are on the verge of being crowned as Second Division champions and need only three points from two remaining games at home to Newcastle Chemfica and away to Wallsend Town to make absolutely sure. They secured a crucial 3-1 victory over visitors Stobswood Welfare to keep the momentum going with goals shared by Matt Donkin, Liam Vaughan and Craig Boyle. Stephen Gibbard replied for the Welfare who are facing a gruelling fixture backlog.

Assuming that North Shields gain promotion in their fourth Northern Alliance season the remaining lift-off spot is being fought over by second-placed Amble and Stobswood.with Wallsend Town as outsiders in the race.

Amble kept their options open but spilled two valuable points when they could only draw 3-3 with mid-table visitors Swalwell. Matthew Scott, Craig Wood and David Waugh were on the mark for Swalwell. Adam Shanks celebrated his birthday with two of Amble’s goals and Michael Straker snatched their equaliser with his last minute header.

Wallsend Town probably need to win all four of their remaining games to keep their already vague promotion hopes alive. The outstanding matches are at home to champions-elect North Shields and away to Newcastle BT, Tynemouth United and Whitley Bay Town. After two damaging defeats on the trot Wallsend got their act together again and goals for Dave Houghton (2), Ben Miley and Paul McCutcheon allowed them to beat visitors Cramlington Blue Star 4-1.

Before reshaping their squad, Tynemouth United were struggling in this campaign but now look like finishing in a respectable mid-table slot with a much brighter future. They won their sixth home game in succession, beating Hexham 5-3 in a real thriller. United’s goals were supplied by Kris Whillis, Mike Armstrong, Steve Matthews, Chris Hutchinson and Lee Brady. Hexham’s replies came from Steve and Scott Coates and Curtis Harvey.

But for their disappointing early away record Forest Hall could have been involved in the promotion battle. They’ve been unbeaten in their last six games on the road however and were good enough to beat hosts Newcastle BT 4-0 with goals supplied by Michael Reay (2), Jamie Matthews and Robert Ruddick.

Willington Quay Saints haven’t managed to claim a single away win with their only hope of correcting the situation now resting on their final game against Wideopen & District. The Saints suffered yet another defeat, losing 4-1 against hosts Newcastle Chemfica whose marksmen were Paul Brown (2), Jonathan Ireland and Colin Cooney.

Wallsend Boys Club have won three and drawn one of their last four games and were 3-2 victors away to Cullercoats Custom Planet. The Planet had Andrew McCartney and Liam Graham finding the net to lead 2-0 at the interval but the Boys Club came back strongly to secure the points with replies from Andy McBride, Rob Nolan and Gareth Ayers.

By Bill Gardner
Ponteland United lost the opportunity of reaching their second cup final when they were beaten comprehensively by Division One form team Hebburn Reyrolle. In the semi-final of the Kicks Leisure League Cup United’s visitors were high in confidence and deserved their 3-1 victory.

Ponteland’s end-of-season hopes have been badly affected by injuries to key players like Liam McIvor, Billy Holden, Max Turner, Jeff Forsyth and Craig Daglish. But they still took an early lead against Hebburn, Gavin Wood getting them off the mark after only ten minutes when he fired home from Andrew Davidson’s cross.

The lead lasted barely a minute before Craig Malley got Reyrolle back on terms with his 20-yard drive into the bottom corner. And on the half hour the visitors went in front when Shannon North scored after winning a race for the ball with Pont keeper Michael Havelock.

As the game progressed Hebburn were the better side all over the park and with ten minutes to go their efforts were rewarded with a third goal. Once again Shannon North was the scorer and he collected a long high ball before going round Havelock to poke the ball into the unguarded net. And it will be Hebburn Reyrolle who will be taking on Heddon in this year’s League Cup Final.

Four of the five teams heading the Premier Division dropped points and leaders Wark were restricted to a 2-2 draw at home by Ashington Colliers. Tony Lancaster and Marc Nixon scored for Wark with Richie Brown and Marc Pattie replying for the improving Colliers.

Walker Central remained in second spot and three points behind Wark despite losing 2-1 against Blyth Town at Monkchester. Liam Mulligan’s 16th minute opener for the Central was a bizarre affair. As Blyth had attempted to put the ball out of play following an injury their gesture misfired and Mulligan strolled through an ‘open door’ to put his side in front.

Walker deserved full credit six minutes later when they deliberately allowed Blyth’s Gary Day to run through unchallenged to accept the gift and restore parity. Justice had been done and it was still all to play for and after an hour the issue was settled. Blyth’s winner was headed home at close range from a Neil Blades flag kick.

Fourth-placed Heaton Stannington and fifth-placed Killingworth Sporting both have games in hand to make them capable of harming Walker Central’s plans for promotion. But they each shed valuable points and Heaton only managed a 1-1 draw away to stalemate experts Carlisle City. Kevin Carr fired Heaton in front after only five minutes but an 82nd minute penalty put away by Olly Driver restored parity for the Cumbrians.

Killingworth have fallen off the pace at a critical time and have won only once in six most recent appearances. Visitors Alnwick Town ended their own protracted lean spell by beating Killy 2-0 with goals for Scott McMullen and Ben Keenan early in the second half.

Murton have made a rapid climb into the top half of the Premier Division table and leapfrogged over visitors Harraby Catholic Club by beating their Cumbrian visitors 1-0. Stephen Turner headed home Murton’s winner only six minutes into the game and Harraby, with a daunting thirteen matches still to play, now look unlikely to catch up with the current pace-setters.

Newcastle University on the bottom rung and their fellow-strugglers Heddon, who are only four points better off, both suffered defeats and are now staring relegation in the face. The Students had Ben Burt on target at Cochrane Park against Cramlington Town but went down 2-1 to the Town’s goals scored by Jordan Watson and Martin Wardale. And Heddon, despite leading 2-1 at the interval, were eventually beaten 3-1 by hosts Shankhouse. Kevin Urwin and Ben Haddock were on the mark for Heddon but Shankhouse wrapped up the points through Jack Davidson, Anth Moran (82 minutes) and Paul Armstrong (89 minutes).

In a real thriller at Prudhoe, Stocksfield beat visitors Seaton Delaval 5-4 with goals supplied by David Below (2), Wayne Stewart, Pat Finnerty and Graeme Hudspith. Delaval had recovered from a 3-0 deficit to go 4-3 up with replies from Stephen Howes (2), John Fitzpatrick and Jordan Fry but they were still finally edged out.

DIVISION ONE – PROMOTION RACE HOTS UP
The top five teams in the First Division all won and Gateshead Rutherford strengthened their hand in pole position with a 3-1 victory away to Wallington. Unbeaten in their last five outings, Rutherford wrapped up the points with goals by Craig Horsfall, Aaron Sheriff and Kevin Hay with Wallington’s single reply coming from Peter Southern.

Rutherford are now five points clear of Percy Main who have a game in hand and the Main seem to be back on song following a dip in for. The Villagers followed up an important 3-0 win against promotion rivals Amble United in midweek with a 2-0 success against Cullercoats at Purvis Park. Jason Ritchie opened the scoring with his well-taken penalty after Craig Culyer was barged off the ball in the box. There was a long wait for the second goal and in the second minute of stoppage time it was claimed by Malcolm Morien as he headed home from Liam Knox’s precise cross.

After their midweek setback against Percy Main, Amble United got back on course quickly and the third-placed Seasiders were convincing 4-0 victors at home to lowly Newcastle East End. The visitors held out until just before the interval when Ian Common opened United’s account. Straight after the changeover Lee Harker doubled Ambles lead and it was all over for the Eastenders. Harker bagged his second goal after 77 minutes and five minutes later Paul White completed Amble’s tally.

Whitley Bay A and Morpeth Sporting Club both picked up maximum points although they remain on the fringes in the battle for promotion. In a game played on the Friday night Morpeth easily beat visitors Chopwell Officials 6-2 with their goals supplied by Graham Carter (2), Ross Symington, Chris Tate, Karl Snowden and Scott Pocklington.

Whitley Bay A were content with a more modest 2-0 verdict against bottom rung outfit Seaton Burn at Hillheads and the Bay have now won seven of their last eight games in the First Division. Both of their goals on this occasion were bagged by Jamie Lyndon.

Danny Sherwood’s goal for Gosforth Bohemians couldn’t prevent their 3-1 defeat at Benson Park by Peterlee Town whose scorers were Adam Stanley, Peter Crawford and substitute Adam West. And South Shields United showed no mercy to relegation-haunted visitors Northbank. The Cumbrians still have a chance of avoiding the drop and almost deserved a share of the spoils. Kyle Yorston netted after only four minutes for North Shields before seeing his later spot kick saved. Only seconds remained when the home side’s lead was doubled by Dominic Mossa.

DIVISION TWO – AMBLE STILL AIMING TO STEP UP
With only four games left to play – home to Newcastle Chemfica and Stobswood Welfare and away to Wallsend Town and Willington Quay Saints – North Shields Athletic are closing in on the Second Division title. A goal-less draw away to Forest Hall wasn’t too much of a blow for the league leaders while the Hall retained their unbeaten home record.

The biggest threats to North Shields’ aspirations will probably come from second-placed Amble and Stobswood Welfare who, despite being currently down in sixth spot, have eleven games outstanding to complete their league programme and do some catching up. Both won to keep the pressure on and Amble in particular fancy their chances of stepping up this term.

Amble were a trifle fortunate however to beat mid-table visitors Hexham 2-1. Wyn Fremlin’s very early opener was cancelled out by a Tom Phillips leveller for Hexham in the 65th minute and time was rapidly running out when Kevin Bell slotted in Amble’s vital winner.

By winning all of their Games in hand Stobswood could even overhaul pace-setters North Shields but it may be the tallest of orders. The Welfare however are giving it their best shot and a 2-1 victory over hosts Wallsend Town was an important step. Liam Anderson netted for Wallsend while Chris Graham opened Stobswood’s account and their winner was tucked away by Josh Hay to extend an unbeaten run away from home to eight games.

Newcastle BT were fairly comfortable 3-1 winners at home to Newcastle Chemfica whose losing run continued. First half goals for Greg Palmer and Josh Elliott set BT up nicely and their 65th minute third goal was scored by Dan Sherliker. David Ryan claimed a last minute bizarre consolation goal for Chemfica when a powerful clearance by the home keeper cannoned off his head and into the net.

Swalwell look like finishing in a mid-table slot but they were not short of effort in their 5-1 victory away to second from bottom Cramlington Blue Star. The Swalwell goals flowed from Stuart Rook ( 2), Joe Adams, Matthew Scott and Chris Smith with Ross Armstrong replying for the losers.

Wallsend Boys Club put some more distance between themselves and the basement by impressively beating powerful visitors Tynemouth United 4-3. With goals supplied by Scott Lynas (2 ). Andy McBride and Chris Thompson the Boys Club always had their noses in front. Chris Garwood, Kris Whillis and Aaron Chalmers replied for Tynemouth who have lost only two of their last twelve games.

Whitley Bay Town still have some work to do to lift themselves off the bottom rung in the Second Division and their 2-1 defeat at home by Wideopen & District didn’t help. Chris Sword and Sean Hay were Wideopen’s marksmen and only ten minutes were left when Chris Atkin got the Town off the mark.

By Bill Gardner
After losing 1-0 in the identical league game on the previous Saturday, Ponteland United gained prompt revenge by beating hosts Blyth Town 2-0 in their semi-final tie in the Kicks Leisure Challenge Cup. Blyth’s Mark Waugh was celebrating his 250th appearance for the club but it was Ponteland who took the lead on the half hour mark. Joe Dawson and Gavin Wood were involved in the build-up and when Wood played the ball in to Andrew Davidson he outpaced Blyth’s left back before placing his low drive out of the reach of keeper Scott Earl.

With ten minutes remaining United scored their vital second goal when a flag kick from Lewis Shiels was headed into the air and Paul Hodgson was first to react. He controlled the ball well and cleverly slotted his short pass through to Gavin Wood who blasted his shot into the roof of the net.

With one cup final appearance now booked, Ponteland are involved in another semi-final clash this Saturday when they entertain First Division hopefuls Hebburn Reyrolle at Ponteland Leisure Centre in the Kicks Leisure League Cup

In the other Challenge Cup semi-final Shankhouse took on Carlisle City for the third time this season. Two prior league clashes had resulted in draws but this time Shankhouse were well worth their 3-1 victory at Northburn. After trailing to Dean Barnard’s early opener for City, Shankhouse replied twice in three minutes through Martin Roper and Jordan Walsh and confirmed their place in this season’s final when Roper bagged his second goal in the 82nd minute.

Premier Division pace-setters Wark and Walker Central both spilled points and are now sharing top spot although the Central have played three more games than their rivals. Wark went down 3-2 away to Heaton Stannington despite being given an early two-goal lead by Marc Nixon and Lee Telfer. Replies from Lawrence McKenna and Iain Irvin got Heaton back on terms before the break and Michael Rush scored their winner on the hour mark.

A seven-match unbeaten run has kept Walker Central’s hopes of a top two finish alive and they drew 1-1 with Stocksfield at Monkchester. Michael Lamb fired the Central into an early lead but Scott Johnson levelled for the visitors after both keepers were taken off injured.

Along with Heaton Stannington, Harraby Catholic Club could use their games in hand to get among the current leaders and Harraby claimed their seventh win on the trot. The Cumbrians beat visitors Alnwick Town 2-1 to complete a league double.

Both sides carved out chances in the early stages but it was Harraby who opened the scoring after 36 minutes. When Aaron Roberts set Steve Archibald on a run on the left flank he cut in and rounded the keeper before squaring the ball to Marc Shiel. Shiel had the easiest of jobs in finding the net from barely six yards.

Harraby then increased their lead immediately before the interval and when Aaron Roberts tore into the box he was brought down by a desperate tackle. Mike Swift stepped up to confidently score from the spot. After 64 minutes Alnwick gained a foothold in the game when full back Danny Lowes saw his thirty-yard free kick sneak under the bar with the assistance of a fortunate deflection. They failed however in their search for an equaliser as Harraby defended doggedly up to the final whistle.

After three defeats on the trot Killingworth Sporting featured in a goal-less draw at home to Cramlington Town who welcomed securing another point to keep them clear of the basement.

And Murton’s unbeaten run at home was halted by Ashington Colliers who claimed a 3-1 victory with strikes by Scott Smith and Jamie Patterson plus an own goal gifted by Murton’s Mark Smith. Only ten minutes remained when Karl Garside got Murton off the mark.

Heddon are only two points better off than Newcastle University at the foot of the Premier Division table so a goal-less draw wasn’t very helpful to either club. The best chance fell to the University’s Dave Kewn who smashed his drive against the woodwork but the Students need to exchange games in hand for points quickly if they are to avoid the drop this season.

DIVISION ONE – IT’S GETTING TOUGH AT THE TOP
With only five points separating them and with seven or eight games to go, Gateshead Rutherford, Amble United and Percy Main are leading the charge for promotion from the First Division but all three dropped points last weekend.

Current leaders Rutherford were restricted to a 1-1 draw at home by Durham FA Minor Cup winners South Shields United. Ben Howell fired the hosts in front but their advantage evaporated when their keeper Craig Knox inexplicably guided the ball into his own net.

Amble United’s double figure unbeaten run came to an abrupt halt when they lost 2-0 away to mid-table outfit Peterlee Town. The Newtowners had picked up only two points from three previous games but ensured a maximum haul in this one. Both of their second half goals were put away by Peter Crawford.

Of the three First Division pace-setters Percy Main probably endured the biggest embarrassment in losing 2-1 at home to bottom rung opponents Seaton Burn. John Amos put Percy Main in front after only five minutes when he latched onto Chris Doig’s through ball and netted from the edge of the area. But Seaton Burn hit back to record their first win away from home this season. A good individual goal by Ian Armstrong got them back on terms straight after the interval and midway through the second half Mattie Laing scored their winner when his 30-yard free got a helpful deflection.

Gosforth Bohemians made it five home wins on the bounce by beating Cullercoats 2-1 at Benson Park where their goals were scored by Steve Grey and Matt Atkin. And Morpeth Sporting Club secured a third successive league win by overcoming struggling visitors Northbank to the tune of 2 -1. Chris Tate opened the scoring for Morpeth after 77 minutes and after their visitors had wasted a few scoring opportunities. The Sporting Club’s lead was doubled in the 90th minute by John Paxton although there were appeals for offside and Ross Irving grabbed a consolation goal for Northbank in stoppage time. And relegation is looking even more likely for the Cumbrians.

Berwick United won their third successive home game, beating Chopwell Officials 2-1 with goals for Phil Lee and Paul Richardson. Irving Ruddick scored Chopwell’s goal but they’ve only picked up a single point from five recent outings and have tumbled down the table.

Newcastle East End took another step towards First Division survival and home form is serving them well at present. They beat visitors Wallington 2-1 and had Dieu Lomana and Ian Graham on target in each half before substitute Jack Palmer got Wallington off the mark.

Hebburn Reyrolle booked themselves a forthcoming meeting with Percy Main in the Pin Point Recruitment Combination Cup Final but were a trifle fortunate to beat semi-final visitors Whitley Bay A in extra time. Jamie Lyndon’s fifth minute opener for the Bay looked likely to put the Seasiders through. But in stoppage time Craig Watson got Reyrolle back on terms and they added further goals through Ray Oshin and Shannon North during the added half hour.

DIVISION TWO – ATHLETIC HOMING IN ON THE TITLE
With a massive thirteen-point lead in pole position, North Shields Athletic look favourites for the Second Division title and promotion. With several games in hand only Amble and Stobswood Welfare look to be the only teams capable of challenging the current leaders. And while their two most dangerous rivals were both on cup duty North Shields beat visitors Hexham 3-1 and haven’t been beaten at home in this campaign. The North Shields marksmen were Danny Henderson, Craig Boyle and Graham Williams with Hexham’s single reply coming from Darren Dobson.

Amble and Stobswood took a rest from chasing promotion points to meet in the semi-final of the Pin Point Recruitment Amateur Cup and the Welfare made home advantage count. They won 3-2 to avenge an earlier league defeat at Amble with their goals supplied this time by Steve Gibbard (two) and Paul Smith. Wyn Fremlin and Adam Shanks replied in vain for Amble and it’s Stobswood who’ll be facing North Shields in this year’s final.

Although their chances of gaining promotion are slim, Forest Hall nudged Wideopen & District out of second spot after winning 3-0 away to Wallsend Boys Club. The Wallsend youngsters have found it hard going this term and offered little resistance in conceding goals to the Hall’s Rob Ruddick (two) and Jamie Gilbert.

Wideopen & District have lacked consistency and they suffered another damaging defeat, being well beaten 4-1 by hosts Tynemouth United. United’s new look team are a handful these days and they coasted to this victory thanks to Mike Armstrong’s hat-trick and a good goal for Kris Whillis. Liam Jubb claimed Wideopen’s consolation goal.

Wallsend Town climbed above Hexham into fifth place and aren’t out of the hunt in the promotion race, improving their chances with an impressive 4-0 victory away to Newcastle Chemfica. Chemfica had won eight of their ten previous games at home but the Town gained revenge for their 4-2 defeat in the reverse fixture. This time they made no mistakes and wrapped up the points easily with goals supplied by Liam Anderson (two), Marc Nicholson and Mick Rankin.

Whitley Bay Town are still on the bottom rung in the Second Division but with nine games still to play the Town are aiming to move up a couple of notches. They were certainly good value in their 3-0 home win against Newcastle BT with Luke Jamieson-Yip bagging a brace after Liam Hudson opened the scoring.

By Bill Gardner

Ponteland United, now occupying fourth spot, have lost only once on their travels this season and were made to work hard for an eventual 2-2 draw with Seaton Delaval at Wheatridge Park.

A downpour just before the game made conditions very difficult at the outset and Delaval belied their recent form by going into a two-goal lead. Following a couple of near misses by Ponteland’s Max Turner and as the game was becoming over-physical Delaval were fired in front. After twenty minutes the visitors’ defence was caught out and Jordan Fry was on hand at the back post to head in Paul King’s cross.

The home side’s lead was doubled five minutes into the second half and, after collecting a shrewd pass from Andrew Purvis, Stephen Howes beat United keeper Michael Havelock from a very tight angle.

Despite this setback Pont believed they could save the game and Marc Dummett opened their account with his free kick getting a kind deflection to guide it into the net.
With fifteen minutes to go parity was restored by United’s Billy Holden whose glancing header from another Dummett free kick beat the unsighted home keeper Pont continued to press and somehow in a goalmouth melee the ball just wouldn’t go into the net with Delaval defending resolutely and Pont unable to get a clear strike on goal. However an equaliser came with 15 minutes remaining and it was almost identical to the first. Dummett again curled his free kick viciously into the crowded goalmouth and it glanced off Holden’s head past the unsighted home keeper Joe Thompson.

With passions beginning to run high Delaval had Steve Anderson red-carded with ten minutes remaining. And Ponteland suffered a double injury blow in the closing stages when strikers Max Turner and Billy Holden ended up injured. Turner was withdrawn with a hamstring problem and Holden suffered knee ligament damage in a collision with Delaval keeper Thompson.
The typical and unpredictable Easter weather put paid to the home games of Ashington Colliers, Stocksfield and Shankhouse with Premier Division leaders Wark and third-placed Killingworth Sporting left kicking their heels.

Defending champions Walker Central in second spot saw some action however and in difficult conditions at Monkchester they beat Cramlington Town 3-0 to get within a point of Wark. Paul Chapman and Chris Walpole scored inside the first twenty minutes to give the Central a boosts and five minutes from the end Liam Mulligan completed their tally.
Walker manager Mike Jeffels was happy with the result against a Cramlington outfit that had hammered Wark on the previous Saturday. He paid tribute to teenagers Mike Strachan, James Walker, Sean Reid and keeper Matt Hunter who were drafted in and also to 51-year-old Wilf Keilty who had to come on as substitute.

Alnwick Town have made a dramatic climb into fifth spot after winning six games on the trot and they showed no mercy to visitors Murton who suffered a heavy 10-1 defeat. Murton have won only once on their travels and were run ragged in this encounter with only a single reply from Michael Walton to show for their efforts. Tom Vickers banged in five of Alnwick’s goals in an inspired performance and the others were shared by Ben Keenan, Tony Brown, Chris Murray, Gary Patterson and Chris Moffatt.

Ponteland United stayed put in fourth place and have only lost once away from home this term. United were restricted to a 2-2 draw by Seaton Delaval at Wheatridge Park but had to come from behind to share the spoils. Strikes by Jordan Fry and Stephen Howes gave Delaval a two-goal lead but they have a habit of surrendering the advantages they create. Marc Dummett opened Pont’s account and Billy Holden scored their equaliser but they failed to capitalise when the home side’s Steve Anderson received his marching orders in the 75th minute.
Newcastle University have failed to clinch a win in a miserable run of nine league matches and the Students are still facing possible relegation unless their several games in hand yield some points. In their first meeting with visitors Blyth Town this term the University were beaten 4-1 but the score-line hardly did them justice.

Jeff Fuller’s first half opener for Blyth was turned in from Chris Lisle’s pull-back from the bye line and Gary Day also netted for the Town before the break with his chance too set up by Lisle. The University’s single reply came from Dave Kewn but they conceded two more goals to Day (penalty) and Fuller after the break with the latter’s second scoring opportunity laid on by Neil Blades.

DIVISION ONE – PETERLEE MAKE THEIR POINT AT PURVIS PARK
Only goal difference is now separating joint leaders Gateshead Rutherford and Percy Main at the head of the First Division with the Main holding the aces in the shape of two games in hand. And while their Gateshead rivals were lying idle the Villagers kept the pressure on despite shedding their first home points of the campaign.

At Purvis Park, Jason Ritchie’s side were restricted to a 4-4 draw in their thrilling encounter with Peterlee Town who had been 4-2 losers in the reverse fixture. In this return game Percy Main made the brightest start and Joe Betts and Callum Colbeck were on target inside the first twenty minutes. They were reeled back in however and their determined visitors restored parity with replies from Scott Henderson and Adam Stanley.

Before the break Malcolm Morien restored the Main’s advantage but once again Peterlee hit back, this time through Peter Crawford and it was all square at 3-3. Colbeck’s second goal of the game nudged the Villagers in front again in the 65th minute but the Newtowners refused to surrender. After 76 minutes Crawford struck again for the visitors who deserved their share of the spoils.

Third-placed Amble United still have an interest in the promotion race and games in hand could allow them to overtake current table-toppers Rutherford, if not Percy Main. The Seasiders however were disappointed with their 2-2 home draw against Gosforth Bohemians although the result extended their unbeaten run to seven games. United seemed to have the points neatly wrapped up after scoring goals in each half put away by Darren Riddell and then Lee Harker. But credit was due to the Bohemians who never gave in and staged a very late recovery. Harry Tulip reduced the deficit in the 86th minute and three minutes later Kevin Held weighed in with Gosforth’s last ditch equaliser.

Chopwell Officials had won six of eight league games prior to the visit of South Shields United but in this one they slumped to a 3- 1 defeat.

Shields, due to take on Hartlepool Millhouse this week in the Durham FA Minor Cup Final at Peterlee, showed no signs of pre-final nerves and came good after losing three league games on the trot. Ryan Shave headed them in front from a Mark Davies flag kick midway through the first half and almost immediately Aaron Kah put his brother Tijan Kah through to double United’s lead from a tight angle. Before the interval Shields keeper Shaun Newbrook conceded a penalty and Chopwell’s Lee Best beat him from the spot but the visitors still had the last word. Straight after the changeover some intricate passing between Michael Pittuck, Mark Davies and Aaron Kah ended up with a great cross from Adam Bell being headed powerfully home by Kyle Yorston.

In the only other First Division game to beat the weather Berwick United’s recent improvement continued and they made it four wins out of five by beating struggling visitors Northbank 3-1. The Borderers avenged their earlier defeat over in Cumbria and took the lead when, slightly against the run of play, Jonathan Brown blasted his 25-yard effort into the roof of the net.
Before the interval a defensive mix-up by Northbank allowed Simon Hargreaves to extend Berwick’s advantage Ross Irving went close to getting Northbank off the mark but they conceded another goal scored by Leigh Walker and a late reply from Stuart McGarva didn’t offer much consolation. The Cumbrians had only one player on the bench at Berwick and are facing the real prospect of relegation.

DIVISION TWO – ATHLETIC ARE HEADING NORTH
Only two of eight scheduled games in the Second Division were able to go ahead because of the unforeseeable Easter elements and North Shields Athletic stretched their lead at the head of the table to a massive twelve points although nearest rivals Amble now have four games in hand.

Still unbeaten at home, North Shields made visitors Willington Quay Saints their latest victims in a 10-0 rout which showed just why they’re leading the field. Craig Boyle was a star performer with his hat-trick for Athletic. They also had Danny Henderson bagging himself a brace and the other goals in the double figure final tally were shared by Antonio Mango, Graeme Murray, Alex Burn, Liam Vaughan and James Barker.

But for their unsatisfactory results away from home, Forest Hall could have been challenging for the Second Division title instead of being in fourth spot with only vague hopes of promotion. In direct contrast to their travelling record the Hall have yet to be beaten at their East Palmersville base and maintained their record by restricting second-placed Amble to a 2-2 draw.
Kevin Baldwin and Michael Reay were the Forest Hall marksmen while Amble’s two counters both came from leading scorer Wyn Fremlin whose personal tally was increased to 26 goals in all games so far this season.

Amble have maintained their progress but are facing a daunting fixture backlog in the run-in to the end of the campaign. Other Second Division sides facing similar problems because of the continuing bad weather are Newcastle Chemfica, Cramlington Blue Star, Wallsend Town, Wallsend Boys Club and Whitley Bay Town who are currently isolated on the bottom rung.

By Bill Gardner
Wark and Heaton Stannington, two sides expected to figure largely in this season’s Premier Division title race, both suffered heavy and unexpected defeats. And current leaders Wark were soundly beaten 5-2 at home by third from bottom Cramlington Town.
Cramlington showed no signs of despondency after having four points deducted from their total last week and made their hosts look ordinary. Goals for Stuart Hepple, Kieran Parsons, Kevin Long and Danny Long (two) left Wark floundering and their two replies, both from leading scorer Marc Nixon, came late in the game.
Heaton Stannington have several games in hand to firm up their title bid but their progress was halted by Blyth Town at Grounsell Park where their visitors claimed a 3-0 victory. Heaton had been unbeaten in their seven previous outings but failed to score for the first time and Blyth fully deserved to wrap up the points. Neil Blades opened the scoring midway through the first half and two goals for Gary Day in the 86th and 90th minutes sealed Heaton’s fate.
As Wark slipped up, second-placed Walker Central narrowed the gap at the top to four points by winning 3-1 away to Newcastle University who are still facing possible relegation in their ninth season in the Premier Division. Liam Mulligan, Steve Forster and Paul Stoneman netted for the Central with James Swainston replying for the Students. But although Walker are showing signs of a recovery they’ve played more games than any of their top of the table rivals and a third championship on the trot now seems very unlikely.
Home games involving third-placed Killingworth Sporting and fifth-placed Harraby Catholic Club were both postponed although these two sides are poised for a late push in the title race. Their absence from league duty allowed Ponteland United to climb into fourth spot, their highest ranking this term.
Ponteland did the trick by beating Shankhouse 4-1 in a game switched to the Leisure Centre after Shankhouse’s pitch at Northburn was declared unfit.
Shankhouse had been hoping to repeat their 3-1 success in the second game of the season but instead they were trailing after only six minutes after Glenn Ford opened United’s account, heading home from Max Turner’s flag kick.
There was another blow for Shankhouse when Lee Gustard pulled up with a hamstring injury and had to be replaced by Craig Cook. And Pont were close to doubling their lead but Gavin Wood saw his header cannon off the crossbar.
After 25 minutes Dean Gate scored United’s second goal and when Richard Kent’s drive was blocked by Shankhouse keeper David Dent he volleyed the loose ball over Dent and into the top corner.
Only three minutes into the second half Ponteland were three goals to the good as Richard Kent capitalized on defensive problems caused by Billy Holden.
The game was effectively over with Pont in full control but Shankhouse got a little encouragement with when Michael Bell reduced the deficit with a diving low header. But their hopes were dashed again and Kent turned in Gavin Wood’s low cross to give United the last word.
Alnwick Town have moved up into the top half of the table after picking up five wins on the trot and bottom rung visitors Heddon were their latest victims. A 3-1 victory completed a league double for Alnwick whose scorers were Chris Moffatt, Dale Kennedy and Ben Keenan who took his season’s personal tally into double figures. Ben Haddock replied for Heddon but their situation is becoming increasingly perilous.

DIVISION ONE – PERCY MAIN REACH ANOTHER FINAL
There was another celebration for First Division outfit Percy Main. Still one of the promotion favourites this term following a three-year absence from the Premier Division the Villagers are already through to this year’s Northumberland FA Minor Cup Final. And they booked themselves another cup final appearance.
At Purvis Park the Main beat Berwick United 3-1 in their semi-final tie in the First Division’s Pin Point Recruitment Combination Cup. Two goals inside a couple of minutes just before the interval tipped the tie in Percy Main’s favour. After a foul on Callum Colbeck they had Jason Ritchie scoring from the spot and then Joe Betts netted to round off slick work by Malcolm Morien and Chris Locke. After 84 minutes the Main’s lead was increased when Ritchie’s fine cross was hammered in by Callum Colbeck and a game Berwick could only managed a single 88th minute reply from Mike Robinson.
Two First Division league games at Amble and Gosforth had to be cancelled due to waterlogging and the top four sides in the division had their quest for points interrupted. But down in fifth place Cullercoats claimed only their fourth home win in ten by beating an out-of-sorts Wallington 5-3 with goals supplied by Alex Burnett, Craig Deighton (two), Ben Gardner and Dave Fairless.
Northbank’s hopes of avoiding the drop were improved by their well-earned 3-3 draw with visitors Peterlee Town. With wind assistance in the first half the Newtowners opened the scoring through Andrew Harrison but his goal was cancelled out by Sergio Royo’s leveller for the Cumbrians. Two further strikes by Peterlee’s Anthony Usher had them leading 3-1 at the break Northbank dominated the second half however and in the 71st and 72nd minutes a quick-fire brace for star man Royo completed his hat-trick and salvaged a precious point.
Chopwell Officials in mid-table have perked up recently, winning six of their last eight games, and a 2-0 victory at home to NFA Minor Cup finalists Morpeth Sporting Club was impressive. A goal in each half scored by Lee Best and Andy Smith saw Chopwell collecting the points.
Bottom rung side Seaton Burn were left still seeking a first away win after losing 4-2 to third from bottom hosts Newcastle East End. The Burn had Ian Armstrong and Matt Laing (penalty) on target but were never in front and the East Enders secured the vital points with goals by Paul Bright (two), Andy Weeks and Dieu Lomana. The result halted a run of ten straight defeats for the East End.
Sadly Hebburn Reyrolle failed in their bid to lift the Durham FA Trophy. They had Chris Morris and Michael Younger on target in the final at Eppleton but were eventually beaten 4-2 by Durham Alliance opponents Chester-le-Street Whitehills.

DIVISION TWO – MANGO GOAL FRUITFUL FOR LEADERS
North Shields Athletic are the form team in the Second Division and increased their lead in pole position to nine points although they were made to work hard for a 1-0 victory away to Swalwell. For the second time this term the Athletic had to be content with a single goal margin against a plucky Swalwell side and this time Antonio Mango claimed their 22nd minute winner with a shot that touched each upright on its way into the net.
While North Shields extended an unbeaten run to eight games, second-placed Wideopen & District have only managed to win once in eight recent outings and they slipped up once again. At home to Wallsend Boys Club a single goal by Adam Walker couldn’t stave off another defeat and the Boys Club emerged as 2-1 victors with goals put away by Steve Hedley and Andy McBride.
With Wideopen’s challenge apparently faltering teams like Amble and Forest Hall have seen their promotion chances improving and even fifth-placed Hexham are keeping their options open. Unbeaten in their eleven games at home the Hexham lads leapfrogged over Wallsend Town by beating the Tynesiders 2-1 at Wentworth Park. The Town had won five of six previous league games but came unstuck in this one. Darren Dobson and Tom Phillips netted in each half for Hexham before their single reply came from Paul McCutcheon.
Cramlington Blue Star secured only their second home win by beating visitors Willington Quay Saints 3-2 and avenging their earlier defeat at Willington. The Star had a hat-trick hero in Lindsey Collinson and Dale Johnson and Wes Fidler replied for the Saints who are yet to taste victory away from home.
Whitley Bay Town have only played five games on their own patch this season and were beaten 4-2 by fast improving Tynemouth United. The Town had Jamie Symington sent off after only five minutes and Chris Garwood immediately put Tynemouth in front with his penalty kick. Further United goals were added by Steve Matthews (two) and Lee Thompson. The Bay’s scorers were Chris Fairley and Chris Atkin but they were reduced to nine men by an injury to one of their players in the closing stages.
In the quarter-finals of the Pin Point Recruitment Amateur Cup the tie between Amble and Cullercoats Custom Planet was washed out but Stobswood Welfare and Newcastle Chemfica both booked themselves places in the last four.
Stobswood won 3-2 away to last year’s cup winners and Josh Hay (two) and Steve Gibbard were their marksmen to outweigh the brace bagged by the Hall’s Robert Ruddick. And Newcastle Chemfica emphatically beat cup visitors Newcastle BT 4-0 to continue their progress. The goals were supplied by Martin Dixon, Liam Naulls (two) and Mike Crozier.
The Amateur Cup’s semi-final draw now reads: Stobswood Welfare v Amble or Cullercoats Custom Planet and Newcastle Chemfica v North Shields Athletic.

By Bill Gardner
While second-placed Walker Central were lying idle, Wark increased their lead at the head of the Premier Division to seven points and still have two games in hand of their nearest rivals. After failing to score on successive Saturdays, Wark got back down to business with a convincing 6-2 victory at home to Seaton Delaval. Leading scorer Marc Nixon claimed a hat-trick for the league leaders who also had Tony Lancaster bagging a brace and Stuart Brown completing their tally. Replies from Delaval’s Steve Anderson and Jordan Fry failed to halt their recent slide.

It shouldn’t be long before Killingworth Sporting nudge Walker Central out of second spot and they improved their title prospects again as a 2-0 home win against Ashington Colliers extended their unbeaten run to six games. In what was the first meeting of these two sides this season Killy picked up the points with goals in each half scored by Paul Dunn and Stephen Telford.

Murton have climbed into the top half of the table and after winning 6-2 at Shankhouse in midweek they won by another four-goal margin away to Cramlington Town. The 4-0 victory was only the second on their travels for Murton and they avenged an earlier defeat by the Town with two goals each for Paul Wintrip and Stephen Turner.

Four league wins on the trot including a pegging back of league leaders Wark have hoisted Alnwick Town into a mid-table slot and with games in hand they look set to continue their progress. Their latest victims were Stocksfield and Alnwick improved on the earlier draw between the two sides by winning 3-0 at Kimberley Park.

Ben Keenan opened Alnwick’s account ten minutes before half time and slightly against the run of play. Stocksfield could then have changed the course of the game but Wayne Stewart wasted a great scoring opportunity and his colleague Graeme Hudspith sent his powerful header against the crossbar. Following these near misses Keenan bagged his second goal for the Town after 75 minutes. Then with five minutes to go a great goal by Tony Brown completed the visitors’ tally but the final score wasn’t a true reflection of Stocksfield’s overall performance..

Although Heaton Stannington’s game at Grounsell Park against Hebburn Reyrolle was washed out the three remaining quarter-final ties in the Kicks Leisure League Cup were able to go ahead.

Last season’s losing finalists Harraby Catholic Club made progress by beating cup hosts Blyth Town 4-3 but they needed a late recovery to book their place in the semi-finals. After 52 minutes Blyth were leading 3-1 with strikes by Tom Haigh (2) and Chris Lisle outweighing Harraby’s opener scored by Craig Thompson. But the Cumbrians battled back gamely and just edged it with further goals shared by Daniel Balmer, Rob Bainbridge and Mike Swift (penalty).

Heddon made it into the last four by beating Newcastle University 3-0 at Cochrane Park in a clash involving the two sides propping up the rest in the Premier Division table. In an earlier league game the two strugglers had shared six goals but this time Heddon emerged as 3-0 victors thanks to goals by Callum Hill (2) and Ben Haddock.

Ponteland United reached their second semi final of the season when they defeated Gosforth Bohemians 3 - 1 in their quarter final at Brunton Park. Ponteland started well and showed immediately that both Richard Kent and Max Turner had the pace to beat the opposing fullbacks.

Paul Hodge on the wing for Bohemians was a threat and he created an early chance for Steven Grey but he fired too high and too wide. And after 18 minutes a corner from Lewis Shiels resulted in Glenn Ford putting Pont in front with his firm header.

The visitors doubled their lead seven minutes later and when Bohs’ keeper David Herrington punched the ball out when under pressure it fell to Richard Kent who volleyed into the top corner from just inside the box. On the hour mark however the home side was offered some hope and Matt Atkin reduced the deficit with an unstoppable half volley from thirty yards out. But with fifteen minutes to go United’s progress was assured when Marc Dummett netted from a tight angle from Andrew Davidson’s free kick.

The semi-final pairings in this season’s League Cup will now be Ponteland United v Heaton Stannington or Hebburn Reyrolle and Heddon v Harraby Catholic Club.

DIVISION ONE – THREE TEAMS BOOK COUNTY CUP FINAL DATES
Percy Main are still chasing three items of silverware and a week before hosting Berwick United in a semi-final tie in the Pin Point Recruitment Combination Cup the Villagers booked themselves a cup final date with Morpeth Sporting Club in the Northumberland FA Minor Cup. They did the trick by beating Newcastle Chemfica 2-0 at Purvis Park and their first half opener was scored by Joe Betts who sent his curling drive into the bottom corner. The Main’s lead was doubled after 66 minutes when, from Malcolm Morien’s free kick, Callum Colbeck planted his header in the Chemfica net. And apart from their double-headed cup adventures the Villagers are well placed for a return to the Premier Division after an absence of three years.

Morpeth Sporting Club reached the NFA Minor Cup final by beating visitors Stobswood Welfare 5-1 after extra time. A spate of missed chances by Morpeth saw the scores level at 1- 1 after ninety minutes but they went on to over-run their league colleagues. Eventually the Welfare were soundly beaten by the efforts of Morpeth’s marksmen Chris Tate (hat-trick), Chris Ridgway and Mike Bowman.

South Shields United have emulated Percy Main and Morpeth Sporting Club by reaching the final of the Durham FA Minor Cup and last weekend beat semi-final visitors Winlaton Vulcan Inn 3-0. Tony Fenwick opened the scoring with his 27th minute penalty. Then, after the same player missed with another spot kick just before the break, Jack Lawton doubled United’s lead and also bagged his side’s third goal ten minutes after the interval. And South Shields will be facing either Hartlepool Millhouse or Gateshead Rutherford Reserves in the Durham final on 7th April.

On the First Division league front and with Percy Main snapping at their heels, current leaders Gateshead Rutherford spilled precious points and were beaten 2-0 away to third-placed Amble United. Ian Common bagged a goal in each half for the Seasiders while Rutherford failed to get on the score sheet for the first time this term.

Whitley Bay A remained in fifth spot after beating Wallington 6-2 at Scots Gap with goals provided by Jamie Lyndon (2), Mark Waite, Dean Porter, Josh Brooks and substitute Gavin Hattrick. Wallington’s replies came from Sam Walton and Dave Featherstone.

After losing six home games on the trot, Peterlee Town broke the mould by beating bottom rung opponents Seaton Burn 5-2. Only a week previously the Newtowners had won 1-0 at Seaton Burn but in this quick return fixture they looked much stronger. Four of their goals were put away by Andrew Harrison with Peter Crawford completing their tally. Seaton Burn had Dave Hewitt and substitute Stephen Baker on target but they were left still seeking a first win away from home.

Goals for Paul Wood ( 2), Leigh Walker and Jonathan Brown earned Berwick a 4-2 verdict at home to lowly Newcastle East End whose goals by Lee Chapman and Anthony Johnson couldn’t prevent a tenth successive defeat. Meanwhile, Cullercoats secured only their third home win by beating strugglers Northbank 3-1 with goals shared by Stewart Wright, Danny Nelson and David Owen. Tom Irving was a lone marksman for the Cumbrians as they slumped to their fifth defeat on the trot.

DIVISION TWO – TYNEMOUTH PUT THE BRAKES ON TABLE TOPPERS
Second Division games at Wideopen, Cramlington and Swalwell were postponed due to waterlogging but North Shields Athletic stayed six points clear of Wideopen at the top of the table. The Athletic had hammered visitors Tynemouth United 9-1 in the reverse fixture but were restricted to a 1-1 draw this time. Alan Armstrong was the North Shields scorer while Chris Garwood netted for Tynemouth who are no longer the whipping boys in the Second Division. Prior to last weekend’s draw they had recorded five straight league victories.

Third-placed Amble had their promotion prospects dented and were beaten 5-1 at home by New castle BT. Richard Beverley completed a hat-trick for the victors who also had Dan Sherliker and Scott Maddison on target to complete a league double. Wyn Fremlin replied for Amble.

Forest Hall are only three points short of a promotion slot and could have been much better placed if they had been better travellers this term. But they were good enough to beat hosts Cullercoats Custom Planet 3-0 with goals for Alan Kelly, Scott Parker and Jamie Gilbert.

Wallsend Town have won five of their last six games in the Second Division and were too physical for neighbours and visitors Wallsend Boys Club to cope with. The Town were 4-0 winners with goals by Ryan Arnott, Liam Anderson, Patrick Masuka and Mark Brewis but there was an unfortunate by-product and two of the Boys Club’s younger players had to be taken to hospital for treatment.

By Bill Gardner

All of last weekend’s games in the Northern Alliance were preceded by a minute of silence as a mark of respect following the news that League Chairman George Dobbins had died suddenly in hospital last Friday afternoon.

Heaton Stannington and Alnwick Town booked themselves a head-to-head in this year’s final of the Northumberland FA Senior Benevolent Bowl. And Heaton avenged an earlier league defeat by beating cup visitors Killingworth Sporting 2-1 this time. First half goals for Adam Donaghey and Dan Thompson gave Heaton a handy interval lead. Killy’s Martin Patterson reduced the deficit straight after the break but a missed penalty five minutes later was a wasted opportunity.

Alnwick Town were impressive semi-final winners at Wark and beat the Alliance’s Premier Division leaders for the second time in a week. After winning 2-0 in the league at St James’ Park last Saturday the Town won 3-0 in the county cup. James Lang, Ben Keenan and Tony Brown netted for Alnwick who last lifted this trophy way back in 1987.

While some of their top-of-the-table rivals were on cup duty there were chances for Walker Central, Harraby Catholic Club and Carlisle City to make up some ground. And second-placed Walker ended a lean spell by winning 3-0 away to Cramlington Town. Their goals, all in the second half, were claimed by John Robson, Paul Stoneman and Liam Mulligan (penalty).
Harraby Catholic Club hoisted themselves up into fourth place and their several games in hand could make them real title contenders. The Cumbrians made it five wins on the trot by narrowly beating visitors Shankhouse 1-0 with a vital goal put away by Marc Shiel after 76 minutes.

Harraby’s neighbours Carlisle City however are still going through a bad patch and after losing three away games in succession they could only draw 1-1 with relegation-haunted hosts Newcastle University. George Coyle ended 65 minutes of deadlock with his goal for the Students but they were reeled back in and City’s Chris Major levelled with ten minutes to spare.
The University are now four points better off than Heddon who stayed on the bottom rung after losing 3-2 away to close neighbours Ponteland United. Although struggling, Heddon are under new management and have changed their playing personnel entirely since the teams last met back in September. Pont were without the suspended Glenn Ford and captain Craig Brown who was down with flu and recalled Lewis Shiels after a six month injury absence.

The first half was evenly contested with neither team creating any clear-cut chances but Ponteland still took the lead after half an hour when Billy Holden beat Heddon keeper Richard Swan after racing onto a great through ball from Andrew Davidson.

Ten minutes into the second half Paul Hodgson won the ball before passing to Dean Gate whose chip into the box was volleyed home by Richard Kent to double United’s lead. And only three minutes later Pont’s third goal was scored by Max Turner from a tight angle to leave Heddon with a mountain to climb.

The visitors were handed a possible lifeline on 65 minutes when David Tremble took a low free kick from 25 yards out which went through the defensive wall and past the unsighted home keeper Michael Havelock. With five minutes to go the deficit was trimmed again by Heddon’s Ben Haddock but the goal came too late to affect the final outcome.

Although Murton are clear of the basement they are still seeking a first away win after being beaten 4-2 by Blyth Town. Andy Kibble and Mark Smith were the Murton marksmen but they were always trailing and Blyth deservedly wrapped up the points with goals shared by Jeff Fuller, Tom Haigh, Ian Blades and Gary Day.

Third from bottom Ashington Colliers meanwhile eased their relegation worries by beating Seaton Delaval 1-0 at Wheatridge Park to make up for a defeat in the reverse fixture. A scrappy game of few chances was settled in the Colliers’ favour by James Patterson’s goal scored after only four minutes.

DIVISION ONE – CUP JOY FOR BERWICK

In the quarter-finals of the First Division’s Pin Point Recruitment Combination Cup, Berwick United, Whitley Bay A, Hebburn Reyrolle and Percy Main all made progress and Berwick completed a league and cup double by beating visitors South Shields United 2-1. Simon Hargreaves and Mike Robinson netted for the Borderers with Tijan Kah replying for the losers.

Whitley Bay A’s quarter final victims were Cullercoats who didn’t benefit from having home advantage and were beaten 3-1. Rob Watson was a lone marksman for Cullercoats who had lost 3-2 in an earlier identical league encounter. The Bay made it into the last four with goals supplied by Ian Lee, Stephen Salters and Simon Reay.

At home to Amble United, Hebburn Reyrolle won 1-0 but cut it really fine and their winner was put away by Ray Oshin in the dying seconds of extra time. The Reyrolle lads now have a silverware double in their sights and have a Durham FA Trophy Final date to look forward to against Chester-le-Street Whitehills at Eppleton on Friday 26th March.

Percy Main also needed the luxury of extra time but finally overcame cup opponents Wallington to the tune of 4-1 at Purvis Park. Nathan Williamson opened the scoring for Wallington but straight after half time Lee Gray levelled for the Main. And the Villagers were stronger during the added half hour with Jon McEnaney bagging a brace and Malcolm Morien completing their goals tally.

The Combination Cup’s semi-final draw now has Percy Main at home again facing Berwick United while Whitley Bay will be crossing the Tyne to take on Hebburn Reyrolle. The ties are scheduled for 27th March although Hebburn’s county cup commitments may force a change.

On the league front in the First Division, Gateshead Rutherford have recaptured pole position from Percy Main although the latter have two games in hand with only a single point separating the two front runners. Rutherford overtook their rivals but needed a 75th minute goal by Kevin Hay to beat lowly visitors Northbank and didn’t look too convincing.

Gosforth Bohemians were looking for a fifth consecutive league win to improve their promotion bid but their visit to mid-table opponents Chopwell Officials proved unproductive. The Bohs were beaten 2-0 as Mark Fitzpatrick’s two goals for their hosts were put away in the 5th and 85th minutes.

In the third of only three league games down for decision there was another disappointment for bottom rung outfit Seaton Burn and they were beaten 1-0 at home by Peterlee Tow n. The Newtowners had just lost six games on the bounce themselves and were lucky to win this one with a vital strike by Wayne Sullivan in the dying second. Seaton Burn had merited at least a point but for the umpteenth time they were let down by woeful finishing.

In the Northumberland FA Minor Cup, Morpeth Sporting Club guaranteed themselves a place in this year’s semi-finals by beating visitors Blyth Town Reserves 3-1. Their scorers ensuring continued progress were Lee Donnelly, Karl Snow den and Ross Symington.

DIVISION TWO – THE WELFARE MAKE HAY

Second Division hopefuls Stobswood Welfare stayed on course in the Northumberland Minor Cup with a convincing 3-0 victory away to quarter-final opponents Gosforth Bohemians Reserves. Josh Hay opened the scoring immediately before the break and to wrap things up for the Welfare both Stephen Gibbard and Chris Graham were also on target later on. The two semi-final ties in the Minor Cup take place this weekend and feature Morpeth Sporting Club at home to Stobswood Welfare and Percy Main hosting Newcastle Chemfica.

Meanwhile, North Shields Athletic increased their lead at the top of the Second Division to five points by narrowly beating hosts Cullercoats Custom Planet 1-0 with a headed goal on the hour mark for John Mordey. The Athletic were also pleased to see second-placed challengers Wideopen & Districted restricted to a 2-2 draw up at Amble .James Bell scored two first half goals for Wideopen but they were reeled back in with their hosts replying through Wyn Fremlin and teenager Ben Lilburn who marked his debut with a fine headed equaliser.

In fourth place Forest Hall have suffered from poor away form but at home they’re still strong and beat bottom rung visitors Whitley Bay Town 3-2. Mark Knights, Mark Sandberg and Robert Ruddick were Forest Hall’sa scorers with Andrew Laird and Liam Hudson hitting back fruitlessly for the Town.

Like Forest Hall, Hexham have remained unbeaten at home in this campaign and at Wentworth Park claimed another scalp by beating Cramlington Blue Star 2-1. After Paul Avery gave the Star a second half lead youngster Curtis Harvey levelled for Hexham. But they had to wait until the fourth minute of stoppage time for their w inner scored by Scott Coates.

With games in hand Newcastle Chemfica continue d their climb up the table with a 4 -2 victory away to Wallsend Town whose four-match winning run came to a halt. And Wallsend Boys Club are clear of the basement after another promising performance produced a 2-0 home win against Willington Quay Saints. Andy Lau opened the scoring and the Boys Club had substitute Stephen Hedley doubling the ir lead with almost his first touch just before half time.

Swalwell’s recent winless run of five games was ended by their 1-0 success at home to Newcastle BT and they claimed the points with a crucial strike by regular marksman Chris Smith midway through the first half.

LEAGUE STUNNED BY CHAIRMAN’S DEATH


Local clubs, players and match officials in the Pin Point Recruitment Northern Alliance were shocked by the sudden death of long-serving league chairman George Dobbins.


George had been undergoing treatment for a heart condition when he sadly died suddenly at the Freeman Hospital last Friday afternoon.


It was too late to suspend the fixture programme but all clubs were requested by league secretary Derek Booth to observe a minute’s silence prior to kick off as a mark of respect.


George's wife Carol and his family bravely attended the touching minute’s tribute observed at the NFA Senior Bowl semi-final between Alliance teams Heaton Stannington and Killingworth Sporting at Grounsell Park where he had been a regular visitor over the years.


There is no doubt that George, a tireless league chairman for almost two decades, will be greatly missed in the Northern Alliance and on the wider football scene in the North East. His busy life had always revolved around football and he was involved as a player and club secretary before taking up the reins with the Northern Alliance.

By Bill Gardner

The Premier Division’s runaway leaders Wark suffered a rare defeat and went down 2-0 away to Alnwick Town who have only lost once at home this term. Goals for Chris Moffat and Ben Keenan gave Alnwick revenge for their earlier 3-1 reverse at Wark.
Walker Central stayed put in second spot after drawing 2-2 with third-placed hosts Killingworth Sporting in a Tyneside local derby. Liam Mulligan and Stephen Foster netted for Walker and Frank Di Pietro and Kevin Grahamslaw were on target for Killy who stayed four points behind the Central but with four games in hand.
For the second time this term Stocksfield shared the spoils with Cramlington Town who ended a three-match losing streak away from home. In the 1-1 draw at Prudhoe Phil Murray claimed Stocksfield’s goal in the 85th minute to cancel out Stuart Heppell’s 55th minute penalty for the visitors.
Heddon, on the bottom rung in the Premier Division, were left still seeking their first victory at Bullocksteads after sharing eight goals with Seaton Delaval. This was a second stalemate featuring these two sides in this campaign but Heddon threw away a three-goal interval lead provided by Ben Haddock, Kevin Urwin and Mark McEwan. Delaval hit back strongly to snatch the lead after the interval with replies from John Fitzpatrick, Conal Reed, Stephen Howes and Jordan Fry but Urwin’s late second goal salvaged a point for Heddon.
Newcastle University, only three points better off than Heddon in the basement, have failed to win any of their last seven games and were beaten 3-1 by Shankhouse at Northburn. After losing four games on the trot themselves, Shankhouse turned the corner and after David Dormand, recently transferred from Walker Central, fired them into a half time lead further goals were added by Chris Rue and James Blacklock. Ben Burt’s single goal for the disappointed Students was scored in the 88th minute.
In the second round of the Kicks Leisure Challenge Cup both Blyth Town and Carlisle City took advantage of being at home to make progress. Blyth avenged an earlier league defeat by beating cup visitors Ashington Colliers 2-1 this time. Two goals inside ten first half minutes, both put away by Neil Blades, put Blyth in charge and although Gareth Reece trimmed the deficit just before the break for the Colliers the Town clung on to their slender advantage.
In their Cumbrian local derby in the Challenge Cup’s second round Carlisle City managed to beat Harraby Catholic Club 1-0 in a close but untidy encounter. In what was a best-of-three clash between the two neighbours in this campaign City edged it with a goal by Chris Major midway through the opening half.
Meanwhile, drawn away to Second Division opponents in the third round of the Kicks Leisure League Cup, there were victories for both Ponteland United and Heaton Stannington. Ponteland made progress by beating Newcastle Chemfica 3-1 but it wasn’t all plain sailing.
The early stages belonged to Pont who forced a series of corners and from one of these Marc Dummett saw his 20-yard drive cannon off the upright. But Chemfica withstood the early pressure and they got a lucky break after twenty minutes. A slip by Pont’s Jeff Forsyth gave home striker Chris Lockerbie a sight of goal and he put his chance away very clinically.
Pont finally levelled after the break and when Andrew Davidson’s flag kick wasn’t cleared Forsyth atoned for his earlier error by drilling the ball home through a crowded goalmouth. Then with twenty minutes to go the Premier Division outfit got their noses in front as Paul Hodgson found the net with his glancing header from Davidson’s free kick. And in the 80th minute Chemfica were finally sickened by their visitors’ third goal scored by Billy Holden with a simple tap in from Richard Kent’s cross.
Gary Yates (2) and Kevin Carr were Heaton’s scorers in their more comfortable 3-0 victory over Stobswood Welfare in the League Cup.

DIVISION ONE – DOUBLE TARGET FOR PERCY MAIN
Percy Main are having a great season in the First Division and are now two points clear of second-placed Gateshead Rutherford with a useful game in hand. The Villagers took a break from league duties to continue their progress in the Northumberland Minor Cup and beat league colleagues Amble 3-0 to book themselves a place in this year’s semi-finals.
In an entertaining tie the Main were ahead after only four minutes w hen Malcolm Morien’s long range effort deceived the Amble keeper. In the 64th minute the lead was doubled when Morien’s flag kick was turned in at close range by Jon McEnaney and with six minutes to go Morien bagged his second of the game to wrap things up for the First Division leaders.
In the fourth round of the Minor Cup, Seaton Burn – playing their first game since 23rd January – bowed out after losing 4-2 against Cup hosts Blyth Town Reserves, Both of the Burn’s goals were claimed iby Chris Baker but the end result was disappointing.
Back on the league front there was more encouragement for Percy Main when their closest rivals Gateshead Rutherford were beaten at home for the first time this season. Visitors Hebburn Reyrolle beat Rutherford 4-2 to simultaneously extend their own unbeaten run to seven games. Simon Jacob, Chris Morris, Shannon North and Ray Oshin shared the Reyrolle goals with their hosts replying in vain through Robbie Frame and Michael Jeffares.
With games in hand Amble United are still promotion candidates and the third-placed Seasiders aided their cause with a 3- 1 victors away to Chopwell Officials. Chopwell’s Andrew Smith cancelled out United’s opener scored by Ian Common but after the break Amble ran the show and they completed a league double with further strikes by Lee Harker and Darren Riddell.
In fourth place at the moment Whitley Bay A may have to rely on their promotion rivals slipping up but they’re still helping themselves and a 4-2 victory away to Morpeth Sporting Club was impressive. Ross White’s two goals for Morpeth were outweighed by the efforts of Whitley’s marksmen Dean Porter (two), Jack Walker and Ian Lee.
Gosforth Bohemians claimed their fourth league win on the trot by beating lowly visitors Northbank 2-1. Craig Thompson and John Dunn netted respectively for the Bohs in the 9th and 29th minutes. A headed reply from Chris Grainger from Stuart McGarva’s cross early in the second half gave the Cumbrians some hope but they suffered from poor finishing in the latter stages of the game.
Berwick United won away from home for only the second time this term, beating Peterlee Tow n 3-1 and inflicting a sixth successive home defeat on their hosts. The Borderers were good value for their win achieved with goals by Leigh Walker (two) and Mike Robinson. Wayne Sullivan was a lone marksman for the Newtowners who remain static in mid-table.
Playing their first game in a month, Wallington looked decidedly ring-rusty and were soundly beaten 5-0 at Scots Gap by Cullercoats. Robert Watson opened the scoring in the first half and another four goals arrived after the break to make up the visitors’ nap hand. The scorers completing the tally were Watson again, Stewart Wright (two) and Craig Deighton.
Meanwhile, South Shields United have done the league proud by reaching the semi-finals of the Durham FA Minor Cup. They did the trick by beating quarter-final opponents Houghton Town B 3-0 with goals supplied by Kyle Yorston (two) and Carl Rutherford and will be hosting Winlaton Vulcans at the last four stage.

DIVISION TWO – THE TITLE RACE IS WIDE OPEN
Having not kicked a ball competitively for eleven weeks it wasn’t too surprising to see Wallsend Town losing interest in the Northumberland Minor Cup at the fourth round stage. The Second Division hopefuls featured in a 2-2 extra time draw away to Gosforth Bohemians Reserves with goals supplied by Ryan Arnott and Stephen Dodd. But in the resultant penalty shoot-out they were beaten 4-3.
With a game in hand compared to second-placed Wideopen & District, North Shields Athletic are sill enjoying a three-point lead at the head of the Second Division table. They retained their unbeaten home record and strengthened their promotion hand with a 4-2 victory over Cramlington Blue Star. The league leaders’ marksmen to complete a league double were Alan Armstrong (two), Antonio Mango and Dan Walton.
Wideopen kept the pressure on by claiming an identical 4-2 verdict away to Newcastle BT who had previously proved strong on their ow n turf. A James Bell hat-trick set Wideopen up for the kill and their fourth goal was tucked away by Liam Jubb. Mike Younger and Colin Galbraith replied for the disappointed losers.
Forest Hall’s travelling form has been letting them down this term and they were beaten 2-1 by hosts Tynemouth United after being given the lead by Robert Ruddick. A thirty yard power drive by Tynemouth full back Darren Turnbull got his side back on terms but they had to wait until the 80th minute for their winner scored by Kris Willis.
Hexham have been the Second Division’s draw experts this time around but there was nothing tentative about their 4-0 success away to Willington Quay Saints. After winning 4-1 in the reverse fixture Hexham’s four goals in this occasion were supplied by young Curtis Harvey (two), Jamie McNamee and Scott Coates who netted spectacularly with a direct free kick.
Wallsend Boys Club finally celebrated a first win on their travels after beating Swalwell 3-1 in the first meeting of the two sides this term. Darren Turbitt netted for Swalwell but his goal counted for nothing in the face of Wallsend replies by Michael Starkie (two) and Chris Thompson.
Points deductions have demoted Whitley Bay Tow n to the bottom rung in the Second Division and they weren’t overjoyed with their second draw of the campaign with visitors Cullercoats Custom Planet. This time they finished all square at 2-2 after the Town had wasted an early advantage. Debutant Liam Hudson, later taken off with a fractured arm, opened their account and their second goal was scored from the spot by Jamie Wallace. The Planet hit back through Tony Fawcett and Edmund Garrett to grab a share of the spoils.

By Bill Gardner

The cold spell played havoc with the fixtures once again and only four Premier Division sides saw any action.

In the only league game Murton continued with their recent improvement which had brought them two wins and two draws in four games to hoist them well clear of the basement. The Murton lads made home advantage count to beat second bottom strugglers Newcastle University 2-0. After a goal-less draw in the reverse fixture the Students were sunk by a goal in each half both scored by Stephen Turner whose first was put away from the penalty spot.

Having beaten Heddon 2-1 in an earlier league fixture, Shankhouse completed a double over the Premier Division’s bottom club. Despite surrendering home advantage and switching their Kicks Leisure Challenge Cup second round tie to Bullocksteads, Shankhouse won 1-0 on this occasion. Their all-important goal was scored after 65 minutes by Anthony Moran.

Shankhouse will now be hosting either Carlisle City or Harraby Catholic Club in the forthcoming semi-finals. Their second round tie at Sheepmount was a victim of the weather. And in the other semi-final Ponteland United have been drawn away to either Blyth Town or Ashington Colliers.

Three games got the go-ahead in the First Division and second-placed Gateshead Rutherford trimmed the gap between themselves and current leaders Percy Main to only two points. Rutherford retained their unbeaten home record by claiming a 3-2 verdict and inflicting a fifth successive defeat on Peterlee Town.

After Craig Horsfall fired the Gateshead outfit into a fourth minute lead the Newtowners hit back strongly with replies in the 47th and 53rd minutes from Peter Crawford and then Martin Jones whose goal was a 25-yard special. Right on ninety minutes Andy Reay restored parity for the home side and in the second minute of stoppage time Kevin Hay snatched their winner.

After a four-match winning run Chopwell Officials were brought down to earth and were beaten 2-1 by visitors Hebburn Reyrolle. Andrew Smith opened the scoring for Chopwell before the interval but Hebburn responded after the break with strikes by Ray Oshin and Craig Watson which extended their own unbeaten run to six games.

A convincing 6-0 win for Gosforth Bohemians against visitors Morpeth Sporting Club allowed them to leapfrog over their opponents to claim fifth spot on the basis of goal difference. First half goals for Paul Hodge and Harry Tulip gave the Bohemians a launch pad. And after Danny Sherwood scored their third Tulip rounded off an impressive personal performance by completing a second half hat-trick and taking his tally to four.

The league’s fixture secretaries Geoff Mason and George Davison face an even tougher challenge after the latest crop of postponements. Seven teams in the Premier Division haven’t completed half of their league fixtures yet, with Ashington Colliers, Harraby Catholic Club, Newcastle University and Alnwick Town being the worst affected. And Harraby are in the most challenging position, having retained an interest in the Cumberland Senior Cup, Kicks Leisure League Cup and also the Kicks Leisure Challenge Cup.

Clubs in the league’s two lower divisions are facing similar frantic run-ins to the end of this frustrating season and the Northumberland Minor Cup’s frequent postponements have caused recurring difficulties.

Morpeth Sporting Club have played only two First Division games since 7th November while their divisional colleagues Seaton Burn appeared in their last league fixture way back on 31st October. Similar Minor Cup hold-ups have afflicted Amble, Wallsend Town and Stobswood Welfare in the Second Division. All three haven’t kicked a ball for league points since the last Saturday in November.

Up to the end of May there are only about fourteen Saturdays remaining so, considering that some cup competitions at league and county level are behind schedule, there are going to be a lot of games to push in. And if the weather continues in the same vein into March serious problems will emerge.

By Bill Gardner
Despite their bottom rung perch in the Premier Division, Heddon were still good enough to see off Second Division opponents Cullercoats Custom Planet in the third round of the Kicks Leisure League Cup. Warren Fisher’s outfit had Dave Tremble and Daniel Robison on target to secure a 2-1 victory with Edmund Garrett replying for the losers.

Newcastle University, second bottom in the top flight, also booked themselves a place in the last eight by beating First Division side Wallington 2-1 at Cochrane Park. Ben Castillo and Michael Forrest hit back successfully for the Students after Ross Donnelly had fired their visitors into a 55th minute lead.

Shankhouse lifted the League Cup in 2005 but, despite their third round home advantage in this year’s competition, were beaten 4-3 by lower-ranked Gosforth Bohemians. The Bohs, leading 2-0 at the interval, always had their noses in front and their marksmen were Harry Tulip (2), John Hewitt and Ben Edusei. Darren Naylor (2) and Anthony Moran replied in vain for Shankhouse.

In two of three quarter-final tussles getting the go-ahead in the Northumberland Senior Bowl, Killingworth Sporting and Alnwick Town made progress although both needed extra time to see them through.

Killingworth were away to Blyth Town who had been Bowl winners in the previous two campaigns but their hopes of a hat-trick were dashed and Killy won 4-2 with goals shared by Kevin Westphal, Nick Hindhaugh, Andrew Edmundsen and Kevin Grahamslaw. Both of Blyth’s replies came from Chris Lisle.

Alnwick Town made the semi-final cut with a 3-2 victory away to Cullercoats and they had a hat-trick hero in Tony Brown. Craig Deighton scored both of the Cullercoats goals.
In the Premier Division, runaway leaders Wark boosted their title hopes by beating second-placed visitors Walker Central 2-1. Walker’s Paul Newton-Eddie cancelled out Edward Brazier’s early opener for the home side but in the 87th minute Wark’s lead was restored by Tony Lancaster.

Carlisle City passed up another chance of improving on their current fifth place and stayed put after their goal-less draw away to Cramlington Town. But City’s neighbours Harraby Catholic Club are moving up the table and recorded their fourth win on the trot by beating hosts Ponteland United 2-1. Ross Phillips returned to the centre of Ponteland’s defence, having been sidelined by injury for four months. And Pont should have taken the lead after ten minutes when Richard Kent hit the bar and from the rebound Billy Holden’s header was cleared off the line.

Only three minutes later Kent was in on goal again but his effort was saved by visiting keeper Andy Wills. And after seventeen minutes Harraby were in front when Andrew Douglas’s low cross was turned into his own net by United’s Glenn Ford.

Despite this setback Ponteland had Liam McIvor and Ford bringing good saves out of Wills but as the pitch started to cut up scoring chances became limited. And the Cumbrians still had their noses in front at the interval.

Five minutes after the restart Harraby doubled their lead however when Pont defender Craig Daglish brought James Earl down and Mike Swift beat Havelock with his spot kick. But the visitors were reduced to ten men after 65 minutes by the sending off of keeper Wills who was replaced in goal by Ian Milburn. The substitute keeper was unable to keep out the resulting penalty taken by home substitute Andrew Davidson.

Despite playing with ten men Harraby could have increased their lead but Andy Douglas blasted his shot over the bar after meeting Balmer’s fine cross. Pont nearly snatched an equaliser through Holden as he fired narrowly wide after beating Milburn to a loose ball. Then In the dying seconds another red card was flourished, this time to Ponteland’s Glenn Ford.

Improving Murton won 4-1 at home to Seaton Delaval to lift themselves clear of the relegation zone. Goals for Paul Wintrip (2) and Karl Garside put Murton well clear at half time and Martin Pearce completed their tally after 75 minutes. Only five minutes remained when player-manager Nicky Gray finally got Delaval off the mark.

DIVISION ONE – RELIEF FOR WHITLEY
The promotion race at the head of the First Division has come to a temporary halt due to the combined effects of cup games and the weather. But Whitley Bay A moved up into fourth place thanks to their 4-2 victory away to strugglers Newcastle East End.

This was a ninth defeat on the trot for the East Enders who were also docked points last week and Whitley were thankful to bring their own losing run to an end. After falling behind to a Dean Holmes opener for their hosts only a minute after kick off the Bay soon got their act together. By half time they had hit back through Jamie Lyndon, Dean Porter, Chris Gilhespie and Joe Riley. The East End’s second goal was scored in the 80th minute by Anthony Johnson but they were well beaten.

In the only other league game in the First Division, Chopwell Officials made it four wins on the trot by beating lowly hosts Northbank 5-2 over in Carlisle. A brace claimed by Chris Grainger gave the Cumbrians an early two-goal lead. A successful spot kick by Lee Best got Chopwell off the mark before the interval and they ran the show after the sending off of Northbank’s Mark Stevenson early in the second half. Best went on to score his second for the visitors and further goals were added by Roland Lee, Chris Gill and Andrew Smith.

Gateshead Rutherford failed to pick up their dream ticket in the Durham FA Trophy. Victory over their semi-final hosts Chester-le-Street Whitehills would have earned them a cup final meeting with Alliance colleagues Hebburn Reyrolle but instead they suffered a disappointing 3-1 defeat. Craig Horsfall netted for Rutherford to make it all square at 1-1 at half time but after they had Aaron Sheriff red-carded they were fighting a losing battle.

DIVISION TWO – TYNEMOUTH CLIMB OUT OF DANGER
Only two of four league games beat the weather in the Second Division with home games involving Forest Hall and Wideopen & District having to be postponed. And both Newcastle BT and Tynemouth United picked up maximum points.

Goals for Greg Palmer and Dan Sherliker (2) inside the first half hour gave Newcastle BT a three-goal interval lead at home to Wallsend Boys Club. The visitors came back strongly with replies from Anthony Williamson and Michael Starkie in the 70th and 80th minutes but BT hung on to win 3-2 and they’ve now remained unbeaten in their last seven games on home turf.

The importing of several new players has been beneficial for Tynemouth United and the Seasiders have hauled themselves out of the Second Division basement thanks to four straight wins on their own patch. Swalwell became their latest victims and were beaten 4-2 by their new look hosts. Tynemouth avenged their earlier defeat at Swalwell with goals scored this time by Chris Hutchinson, Dean Marsh and Mike Armstrong who bagged himself a brace. Chris Smith and Stuart Rook were responsible for Swalwell’s replies.

In the first round of the Pin Point Recruitment Charity cup there was a remarkable 8-4 victory for Whitley Bay Town at home to Willington Quay Saints. The Town had James Mitchinson and Chris Fairley both claiming hat-tricks with their other two goals put away by Chris Atkin and Ben Kiddie. Willington’s replies came from Mark Henderson (2), Glen Johnson and Phil Dolan. The cup-tie was preceded by a minute’s silence in memory of Saints chairman Graham Ford (brother of manager Trevor Ford) who died suddenly last week at the age of 51.

Once again there was little action in the Northumberland Minor Cup as the fixtures continued to pile up due to pitches being waterlogged. But Newcastle Chemfica made further progress at the expense of fifth round visitors and Northern Alliance colleagues Berwick United.

Chemfica, who knocked out cup holders Blakelaw in a previous round, were drawing 2-2 with Berwick at the end of extra time thanks to strikes by Mike Crozier and Paul Brown. But they were able to celebrate after winning 4-2 in the resultant spot kick shoot-out.

By Bill Gardner
After a break of almost two months, Ponteland United returned to action and faced a difficult test at home to Seaton Delaval in the second round of the Kicks Leisure Challenge Cup. United had celebrated a 1-0 victory in an identical league game and completed a league and cup double, beating their visitors 4-1 after extra time on this occasion.

United were at full strength with Liam McIvor returning up front following a three match suspension and they welcomed newcomer Jeff Forsyth to the starting line-up to make his debut..
After only five minutes Pont had a strong appeal for a penalty for handball turned down and the game settled into a pattern of robust challenges. And McIvor almost scored with a header when he got on the end of a cross from Richard Kent before firing over from thirty yards with the Delaval keeper out of position.

Half time arrived with honours even although Ponteland had created the majority of scoring chances and they continued in the same vein. McIvor and the lively Holden were causing problems for the visiting defence but Max Turner and Paul Hodgson wasted further opportunities to put their side in front. Holden however did the trick on the hour mark and when Delaval keeper Mundy palmed out a low cross from Turner, Holden reacted quickly to bang the loose ball into the roof of the net.

Delaval battled hard to get back on terms and Stephen Anderson was only thwarted by the combined challenges of United’s Ford and Forsyth. And with ten minutes to go the visitors got back on terms when a lofted free kick was headed powerfully home by centre back Andy Johnson.

After their long spells of inactivity over the winter, neither side relished an extra half hour in the heavy conditions but Ponteland proved the strongest. After Dean Gate restored their lead by finding the net when Andrew Davidson’s flag kick was helped on by McIvor they never looked likely to let things slip. Their superiority was confirmed when the tireless Kent bagged himself a brace in the second extra period to give a final score-line which was a truer reflection of the overall action. And Pont can now look forward to visiting either Blyth Town or Ashington Colliers in the forthcoming Challenge Cup semi-finals.

With the weather still biting into the fixture schedules only two of four games in the Premier Division, both over in Cumbria, were able to go ahead. And with several useful games in hand,

Harraby
Harraby Catholic Club got their league programme back under way after the long break by entertaining Cramlington Town and were soon on top and showing no signs of being ring rusty on their way to a stunning 9-0 victory.

Town keeper Gourley had kept out early efforts from James Earl and Daniel Balmer but Harraby were fired in front after twenty minutes by Balmer who beat Gourley from the edge of the box. The lead was extended after half an hour when Andrew Douglas was sent sprawling and the resultant penalty was tucked away by Mike Swift.

Before the break Harraby claimed a third goal when Earl’s long range free kick was headed home at the back post by Mark Thompson. The home side continued to apply heavy pressure after the change-over and when Marc Shiel turned the ball into the path of Douglas he ghosted past two defenders before firing into the bottom corner from twenty yards.

More goals seemed inevitable and Cramlington suffered further hits at regular intervals with Andrew Douglas turning out to be their chief tormentor. He banged in four second half goals to leave the visitors on their knees and for good measure Harraby’s final tally was boosted by strikes by James Earl and Aaron Roberts.

Harraby’s neighbours Carlisle City still haven’t managed to regain the form that installed them in fifth spot with a chance of having a say in the championship race. After three straight defeats City could only manage a 2-2 draw at home to a Newcastle University side second from bottom in the Premier Division pecking order.

Fifty minutes of stalemate was ended by Chris Major’s opener for Carlisle but it was cancelled out for the Students by James Gavin. Major’s second goal in the 78th minute restored City’s advantage but with six minutes to go Tom Milne levelled again for the University to earn them a badly-needed point.

The only one of four quarter-final ties in the Northumberland Senior Bowl to beat the weather was at Wark where the home side made progress by beating Ashington Colliers 2-1. Wark never looked likely to repeat their 4-0 success in an identical league fixture but just did enough. They had Jamie Peel and Marc Nixon scoring inside the first twenty minutes and the Colliers could only muster a single reply from Scott Smith.

First Division outfit Hebburn Reyrolle booked their place in the final of the Durham FA Trophy with a 3-0 victory at home to Darlington Cleveland Bridge. Ray Oshin’s first half brace set up Hebburn and midway through the second half a third goal put away by Simon Jacobs wrapped up the tie. The Reyrolle lads are now hoping for an all-Northern Alliance cup final against colleagues Gateshead Rutherford who travel to take on Chester-le-Street Whitehills in next Saturday’s other semi-final.


DIVISIONS ONE & TWO – NORTH SHIELDS GO TOP
Only one game beat the weather in the First Division and only because Peterlee Town forfeited home advantage and switched to the ground of opponents Chopwell Officials. The Newtowners didn’t benefit from the decision and were beaten 2-1. Mark Fitzpatrick and David Purdy netted for the winners with Peterlee’s single reply coming from Andre w Harrison.
North Shields Athletic have replaced Amble at the head of the Second Division table although the latter now have a couple of games in hand. Yet to be beaten at home, the Shieldsmen leapfrogged over their promotion rivals thanks to their 1-0 victory over lowly visitors Wallsend Boys Club. The game’s only and vital goal was scored by Antonio Mango midway through the first half.

Despite occupying third spot at the moment, Wideopen & District have been enduring a damaging lean spell and have gathered a meagre two points from their last five league games. The trend continued when they went down 2-1 away to Forest Hall who retained their unbeaten home record and Are now in fourth place. Kevin Baldwin claimed both of Forest’s first half goals to leave Wideopen chasing the game and they only managed a single reply by Adam Campbell after the interval.

Mid-table outfit Hexham are the Second Division’s draw experts having featured in eight stalemates already this season. They had drawn 2-2 against latest visitors Newcastle BT in an earlier meeting but this time, at Wentworth Park, they secured a 3-1 victory. 17-year-old Curtis Harvey, promoted from the club’s junior ranks, marked his senior debut with Hexham’s opener and the lead was doubled by a successful penalty taken by Scott Coates. On the stroke of half time Simon Mattock pulled a goal back for BT but their hopes were soon dashed. Home captain Gavin Cox scored a lucky third goal for Hexham when he got a touch to a flag kick.

Since importing several new players, Tynemouth United are finally showing signs of improvement and picked up their first points away from home. A 3-2 win against Cullercoats Custom Planet hoisted United clear of the basement while avenging an earlier 1-0 defeat by the Planetarians. Shane Brooks scored two of the Tynemouth goals and their vital third was a tremendous 30-yard direct free kick powered in by Stephen Matthews. The Cullercoats replies came from Edmund Garrett (penalty) and Nigel Morris.

CUP PROBLEMS MOUNT UP
Progress has been held up in the Northumberland Senior Bowl and Northumberland Minor Cup and in the Minor Cup there’s been a real fixture pile-up. And while Northern Alliance clubs are caught up in this county cup log jam their schedule of outstanding league games is causing even more headaches.

Of five Minor Cup matches scheduled for last weekend, only one was played and Morpeth Sporting Club beat fourth round visitors Killingworth Plough 5-0. An own goal gift completed Morpeth’s nap hand after their other goals were shared by Karl Snowden, John Paxton, Chris Tate and Scott Pocklington.

By Bill Gardner
Postponements of home games involving Heaton Stannington and Ashington Colliers, allied to cup commitments, reduced the Premier Division programme to only three fixtures. And second-placed Walker Central could only draw 0-0 away to lowly Murton. The Central are now five points behind current leaders Wark and have won only one of their last six league games.

With Killing worth Sporting and Heaton both out of action, Carlisle City could have overtaken both to claim third spot. The Cumbrians wasted the opportunity and were beaten 2-0 away to an improving Seaton Delaval who made it three wins on the trot with goals in each half for Stephen Anderson and Michael Fenwick.

Strugglers Newcastle University, only three points better off than bottom club Heddon, had no joy against Stocksfield at Cochrane Park. Their visitors claimed a 1-0 victory, their fourth in succession away from home, but were second best to the Students in the early exchanges and were lucky not to go behind on a couple of occasions.

The visitors improved after the break however with Wayne Stewart and Reece Davies causing problems for the University defence. And with fifteen minutes to go Stocksfield got their breakthrough when Anthony Dowson’s testing cross saw the home keeper and his defenders get in a mix up. Dave Below seized on the loose ball to hammer his winner into an unguarded net.

In the Kicks Leisure League Cup, Chopwell’s scheduled home tie against Blyth Town was switched to the latter’s ground at South Newsham and Blyth secured a 3-1 win to make progress. Craig Hopwood gave the Town an interval lead which was later increased by Chris Lisle and then Neil Blades. Chopwell’s single reply came from Dave Fitzpatrick just two minutes before the final whistle.

Only two other League Cup matches got the go-ahead and Premier Division leaders Wark went down 2-1 at home to last season’s losing finalists Harraby Catholic Club. Harraby started well and took the lead when Jordan Coulthard headed home from a James Earl flag kick early in the tie. The Cumbrians had to defend well to hang onto their slight advantage up until half time.

Wark began to fire on all cylinders after the break and their pressure paid off when Harraby’s Mark Thompson conceded a penalty and Marc Nixon fired the home side level from the spot.  The visitors kept their focus however, being quick to break as Wark pushed for a winner. And it was the Cumbrians who came out on top when, after Marc Shiel’s shot hit the post, Andrew Douglas lashed in the rebound.

Hebburn Reyrolle from the First Division also booked their place in the next round of the League Cup by comfortably beating Second Division opponents Wallsend Boys Club 5-1. With eleven minutes of the kick off Chris Morris had completed his hat-trick for Reyrolle and after the break they added further goals through Craig Watson and Mark Dale. Gary Gill claimed a late consolation goal for the Boys Club although his shot was claimed not to have crossed the line.

Premier Division outfit Cramlington Town were well and truly caught out in the first round of the Northern Alliance Charity Cup. Despite their home advantage the Town were hammered 7-0 by their First Division cup opponents Cullercoats. The visitors were out of their blocks quickly and were five goals ahead at the interval thanks to Stewart Wright, Robert Watson, Craig Deighton and Ben Gardner who bagged himself a brace. After the change-over the Cullercoats tally was increased with further goals for Deighton and Watson.

In another Charity Cup encounter, Northbank forgot about their battle against relegation in the First Division to beat highly-rated cup hosts Gateshead Rutherford 3-1 after extra time.
In an otherwise even first half, Craig Horsfall and Robbie Frame both went close to opening the home side’s account while Sergio Royo fired narrowly wide for the Cumbrians. After 57 minutes Northbank opened the scoring when Jonathan Mason finished off good work by Mark Stevenson.

David Clasper got Rutherford back on terms with his powerful header from a 70th minute flag kick but Northbank went on to seal victory in extra time. Scott Thompson restored their lead right at the end of the first period and Ross Irving scored their third goal from keeper Jack Twentyman’s long clearance.

DIVISION TWO – RECOVERY FOR TYNEMOUTH?
Only three league games were scheduled in the Second Division and a much-changed Tynemouth United side lifted off the bottom rung after beating visitors Newcastle BT 3-1 and avenging a defeat by the same margin in the reverse fixture. United’s scorers were Darren Turnbull, Chris Spearman and Mike Armstrong who found the net with a scorching thirty-yard effort. Newcastle BT’s reply came from Greg Palmer.

Tynemouth’s original slot at the foot of the table was reluctantly taken over by Whitley Bay Town following their 2-1 defeat away to Willington Quay Saints. Dale Johnson and Mark Henderson netted in each half for the Saints and only three minutes remained when Chris Atkin claimed a late consolation goal for the Town.

Hexham had drawn 2-2 at Swalwell earlier in the season and there was another stalemate when Swalwell dropped in at Wentworth. A cross-cum-shot from Jamie McNamee gave Hexham a somewhat unexpected opener after only two minutes and the goal seemed likely to secure the points. In the second minute of stoppage time however Michael Bell spoiled the party by levelling for Swalwell.

In the Second Division’s Pin Point Recruitment Amateur Cup, North Shields Athletic became the first team to book themselves a semi-final slot by winning 3-1 at home to Wideopen & District. The Shieldsmen, also chasing promotion this term, completed a league and cup double against their visitors with goals shared by Graham Williams, Liam Bainbridge and Antonio Mango.

COUNTY CUP ACTION – CHEMFICA HUMBLE HOLDERS
In keeping with other competitions the Northumberland FA Minor Cup has had progress badly affected by the weather. The fourth round should have taken place in early January but only three games have been decided after getting the go-ahead last weekend.

Three Northern Alliance sides – Newcastle Chemfica, Amble and Percy Main - cleared this belated hurdle. And Chemfica knocked out last season’s cup winners Blakelaw who have seen several of their players joining Tynemouth United in the Alliance’s Second Division.

Chemfica won 3-2 away to the holders, despite having a player sent off midway through the first half, and booked themselves a fifth round ticket thanks to two successful Liam Naulls spot kicks after Mike Crozier had opened their account.

Amble won 3-1 away to league colleagues Forest Hall whose single goal was scored by Robert Ruddick. Amble had Stu Marshall bagging himself a brace and Adam Shanks completed their winning tally.

Percy Main’s tie away to Shilbottle Colliery Welfare was switched to Purvis Park where the Villagers celebrated a comfortable 3-0 victory. Player-manager Jason Ritchie got the Main off the mark with his 31st minute penalty and doubled his side’s lead just before the break, scoring with a long range header from Steve Shadforth’s cross. And midway through the second half Shadforth was on target himself after Callum Colbeck’s drive was only parried by the Shilbottle keeper.

While Wallsend Town’s tie away to Gosforth Bohemians Reserves had to be abandoned due to an incident involving an accidental clash of heads, Seaton Burn, Berwick United and Stobswood Welfare finally staged their third round games with all three making progress.

Berwick United beat cup visitors Alnwick Town Reserves 3-0 with goals claimed by Leigh Walker (2) and Mike Robinson and Seaton Burn won 4-1 away to Wallington in a game staged at Morpeth. Dave Hewitt and Stu Taylor bagged a brace apiece for the Burn with Ashley McAlpine scoring for the losers.

Stobswood Welfare continued their progress by beating Newcastle RVI Lochside 3-1 thanks to goals by Steve Gibbard (2) and Josh Hay and this weekend’s outstanding fourth round matches in the NFA Minor Cup will be featuring Berwick United v Amble United, Blyth Town Reserves v Seaton Burn, Gosforth Bohemians Reserves v Wallsend Town, Killingworth Plough v Morpeth Sporting Club and Walker Central Reserves v Stobswood Welfare.

South of the Tyne in the Durham FA Minor Cup, South Shields United kept the Northern Alliance flag flying with a 5-0 home win against Stillington Royal. Jack Lawson’s two early goals for Shields included a 5th minute penalty and Dominic Mossa also netted to put them three up at the interval. Inside the last ten minutes South Shields’ nap hand was completed when Adam Bell bagged himself a brace.

By Bill Gardner
There were some surprising results and, despite having an idle Saturday, Premier Division leaders Wark stayed six points clear. Of their four nearest rivals, only Killingworth Sporting picked up maximum points.

Killingworth leapfrogged over Heaton Stannington to claim third spot thanks to their 3-2 victory over Shankhouse at Northburn but their hosts were twice fired in front by Paul Armstrong and then Carl Moir. Prompt replies from Killy’s Andy Edmundsen and Nick Hindhaugh kept the visitors in the game and Hindhaugh’s second goal after 70 minutes proved decisive, leaving Shankhouse bemoaning their fourth league defeat on the trot.

Second-placed Walker Central suffered only their second defeat away from home, losing 3-2 against Seaton Delaval who they had beaten 3-0 in the reverse fixture. Two early strikes by Mark Fenwick and Stephen Anderson put Delaval in charge but they wasted this advantage and allowed Liam Mulligan and David Dormand to hit back for the Central before the break. But in the 74th minute Jordan Fry netted to give the hosts a well-earned victory.

Both Heaton Stannington and Carlisle City failed to take advantage of Wark’s absence from league duty and although Heaton extended an unbeaten run to seven games their 1-1 draw away to Murton had to be disappointing. Murton had been 7-2 losers at Grounsell Park but opened the scoring this time through Paul Wintrip after only fifteen minutes. His goal threatened to give his side a surprise victory but with only seconds remaining Christian Collins scored to save Heaton from a greater upset.

Carlisle City had lost only one of seven games prior to their visit to Ponteland United and a 4-2 defeat dented their title hopes. Ponteland returned to action following the previous week’s postponement and were unchanged from the team which defeated Walker last time out. It didn’t take too long for the visitors to get their noses in front and after only ten minutes a cross from Jamie Yallop was headed by Pont’s Anthony Anzevui but only into the path of Ollie Driver who beat home keeper Michael Havelock.

Five minutes later Pont were level with Richard Kent quickly getting the better of Yallop and firing low past City keeper Shane Williams from Marc Dummett's cross. And 20 minutes Ponteland were in front when Billy Holden set up Gavin Wood to score.

The lead lasted only another three minutes until Carlisle’s Guiseppe Amato won a free kick on the left and his cross was headed firmly home by the unchallenged by Michael Holliday. However, just before the break United’s lead was restored by Billy Holden who netted from a tight angle. And Holden scored his second goal after going round the keeper in the dying seconds to make the points secure.

In their mid-table meeting with visitors Blyth Town, Alnwick Town avenged an earlier defeat by winning 3-1 this time. Robbie Dobson gave Blyth an opener on the stroke of half time but Alnwick ran the show after the change-over. Chris Moffitt struck to restore parity and midway through the second half his Alnwick colleague Ben Keenan bagged himself a quick-fire brace.

The Premier Division’s bottom two clubs Heddon and Newcastle University had no luck again. Heddon had Ben Haddock and Mark McEwen on target away to Cramlington Town but still lost 3-2 after conceding earlier goals to the Town’s Stuart Hepple (2) and Kevin Long.

Newcastle University were hammered 6-0 by visitors Harraby Catholic Club who had their goals supplied by Aaron Roberts (2), David Hewson, Daniel Balmer, Lee Sturrock and Alan Casey.

In a delayed first round tie in the Kicks Leisure Challenge Cup, Stocksfield were beaten 5-1 away by Ashington Colliers whose marksmen were Mark Richardson (2), Scott Smith, Marc Pattie and Simon Curry. Ben Pearson was Stocksfield’s only scorer and the Colliers will now be visiting Blyth Town in the quarter-finals of the competition.

DIVISION ONE – PURVIS PARK’S A FORTRESS
Percy Main and Gateshead Rutherford have drawn clear of the rest in the race for the First Division title. Rutherford took a break from league duties to pursue their hopes in the Durham FA Trophy and booked themselves a semi-final slot by beating visitors Hartlepool Town SFC 5-0. Andy Reay saw his penalty for Rutherford well saved but they still coasted through, thanks mainly to Robbie Frame’s hat-trick. The home side’s other scorers were Joe Hindmarch and Steve Tumelty.

In pole position in the First Division and having now played a game more than Rutherford, Percy Main have a five-point lead after beating Whitley Bay A 4-2 at Purvis Park. The Villagers, with a hundred percent record on home turf, were leading 2-0 after only fourteen minutes.

Jonathan McEnaney opened their account by bundling home a floated free kick from Jason Ritchie and the Main’s second goal came a few minutes later with Callum Colbeck deceiving Bay keeper Chris Compson with his well placed back header.

Dean Porter hit back for Whitley with his low stooping header going in off the post but McEnaney’s second goal just before the interval restored Percy Main’s advantage. This time he fired home from close range from Jason Ritchie’s flag kick.

Midway through the second half Whitley Bay were reduced to ten men when Ian Lee received his marching orders and the Main bagged their fourth goal as Steven Shadforth banged in an unstoppable effort from just outside the box. There was only a minute left when the Bay completed the scoring, Joe Riley stabbing home a loose ball in controversial circumstances with the home defenders claiming that the ball had been pulled back from being well over the dead ball line.

Third-placed Amble United have a couple of useful games in hand but, after winning three games on the trot, the Seasiders were restricted to a 2-2 draw away to Hebburn Reyrolle. Ron Warwick gave United an interval lead but two second half replies from Simon Jacobs and Alan Pegram swung the game in Hebburn’s favour. But an 80th minute penalty put away by Paul White salvaged a point for the visitors.

After losing five away games in succession, Gosforth Bohemians turned the corner by beating hosts Peterlee Town 4-3 in a mid-table battle. Martin Jones (2) and Dave Langley netted for the Newtowners but they were just overtaken and strikes by Harry Tulip (2), Ben Edusei and Paul Menton saw the Bohs pick up the points.

Having suffered a heavy defeat in the Durham Trophy a week earlier, Chopwell bounced back and beat struggling visitors Northbank 2-1. Both sides wasted first half opportunities but Chopwell ended the stalemate with two quick goals straight after the break, both scored by Andrew Smith. On the hour mark Northbank hit back through Sergio Royo and were only deprived of a point by some resolute Chopwell defending in the closing stages.

Morpeth Sporting Club made it into the fourth round of the Northumberland Minor Cup and in their rescheduled tie at home to Red Star Benwell they secured a comfortable 5-2 victory. John Paxton weighed in with a hat-trick for Morpeth and their other marksmen were Chris Tate and Karl Snowden.

DIVISION TWO – WIDEOPEN SLIP UP
With Second Division leaders Amble and second-placed North Shields Athletic out of league action there was a chance for Wideopen & District to put some pressure on. They blew it however after having to settle for a 3-3 draw with visitors Forest Hall. Wideopen had famously-named Niall Quinn bagging two of their goals with the other claimed by Rob MacDonald. But Forest Hall earned a share of the spoils with replies from Kevin Baldwin, Alan Knights and Tom Jones.

At the wrong end of the table, both Tynemouth United and Whitley Bay Town achieved encouraging results and a 3-2 verdict at home to Willington Quay Saints gave Tynemouth only their second win of the campaign. Their goals by Stephen Matthews, Chris Hutchinson and Chris Garwood (penalty) just outweighed the scoring efforts of Glen Johnson (penalty) and John Foggett for the Saints.

Whitley Bay Town, leading 3-2 at half time away to Cullercoats Custom Planet, were finally restricted to a 3-3 draw but were happy with a precious point. Chris Fairley, Chris Atkin and Luke Jamieson-Yip were the Town’s first half marksmen and the Planet’s replies were shared by Kevin Walter (who netted after only twelve seconds), Edmund Garrett and Mark Wilkinson.
Swalwell have only lost once in their last eight outings but were lucky to get a 2-2 draw with visitors Hexham. A gift of an own goal by home defender Chris Smith gave Hexham their opener five minutes before the half time interval. After the change-over Scott Coates scored from the spot to double Hexham’s lead but Swalwell’s decision to bring Craig Robinson off the bench paid dividends. He scored twice in the last five minutes to rob the visitors of victory.

Cramlington Blue Star out-muscled hosts Wallsend Boys Club in their basement battle to win 3-2 Wallsend led 2-1 at the break after goals by Andy McBride and Dan Henry had triggered a single reply from Blue Star’s Jamie Evans. The Star’s manager Ray Armstrong was red-carded but his side’s physical approach rattled Wallsend’s youngsters in the second half and further Cramlington goals were supplied by Sam Robinson and Thomas Bazzee.

Amble, Wallsend Town and Newcastle Chemfica all made progress in the NFA Minor Cup with Wallsend Town hammering cup hosts and league colleagues Newcastle BT 6-0. Liam Bell completed a hat-trick for the Town who also had Paul McCutcheon (2) and Rikki Donaldson on target.

Amble were also in free-scoring mood at home to Blyth Rangers and the current Second Division leaders won 6-1 to book their place in the next round. Wyn Fremlin’s opener for Amble straight from the kick off was cancelled out by Blyth’s Craig Petrie but that was the Rangers’ last shout. Amble cruised to a comfortable victory with further goals by Stu Marshall (2), David Shephard, Adam Shanks and Mike Grieves.

Newcastle Chemfica were also third round Minor Cup winners, scoring two goals without reply at home to Bellingham. Their match-winning marksmen were Colin Cooney and Mark Burlingston.

By Bill Gardner

The weather played havoc with the fixtures and Premier Division pace setters Wark had their home game with Harraby Catholic Club washed out, allowing second-placed Walker Central to trim their lead to six points.

After losing three games on the trot Walker Central got back on track with a 4-1 victory over Shankhouse at Monkchester. James Armstrong put Shankhouse in front midway through the opening half but they were still heading for a third successive league defeat.

John Campbell marked his return to the Central’s ranks after a spell with West Allotment Celtic by scoring their equaliser after 35 minutes and just before the interval Paul Chapman claimed the home side’s second goal. David Dormand netted after 74 minutes to increase Walker’s lead and with two minutes to go Campbell completed their tally with his second goal of the game.
Heddon’s new manager Warren Fisher was within a minute of seeing his new charges claiming a first home win but visitors Newcastle University salvaged a point from the eventual 3-3 draw. There was a dream start for Heddon in this bottom of the table clash with Daniel Robinson and John Pearson both finding the net within three minutes of the kick off.

Michael Forrest got the Students off the mark on the half hour but Heddon’s two-goal lead was restored by Daryl Lucas shortly before the break. Even when Will Deledicq scored the University’s second goal Heddon seemed in little danger of letting things slip. But in the 89th minute Deledicq struck again to ensure that the spoils were shared.

Having watched his Seaton Delaval side suffer six defeats on the trot, team manager Nick Gray was relieved to see a much better performance which earned a 2-1 victory away to Blyth Town. Blyth had been unbeaten in five previous appearances and were fired into an early lead by Danny Beresford. Stephen Howes got Delaval back on terms before Stephen Anderson scored their winner a couple of minutes before half time.

Ashington Colliers’ home game against Stocksfield in the Kicks Leisure Challenge Cup had to be postponed but in the other outstanding first round tie Carlisle City beat Alnwick Town 2-1.
Carlisle surrendered home advantage and travelled up to Alnwick for the first meeting of the two sides this season.

Only minutes into the game a double sending off reduced each team to ten men and Stephen Rutter opened the scoring for Alnwick midway through the first half. The Town’s slender lead survived until City’s Stuart Hill restored parity in the 79th minute to take the tie into extra time. Towards the end of the first extra period Steve Bell found the net for Carlisle’s winner to set up a home game against Cumbrian neighbours Harraby Catholic Club in the Challenge Cup’s second round.


DIVISIONS ONE & TWO – SAINTS ARE TRAVELLING BADLY
Waterlogging caused the postponement of the three First Division fixtures that had been scheduled and only two of four planned games in the Second Division got the go-ahead.
In only their second home game this term, Cullercoats Custom Planet picked up three useful points to keep clear of the basement. The Planet beat Willington Quay Saints 2-1 to leave their visitors still seeking a first win away from home. Both of the Cullercoats goals were scored by Edmund Garrett with Dave Allan replying for the Saints.

In the only other Second Division encounter, Hexham drew 0-0 with third-placed Wideopen & District at Wentworth Park where the playing surface was perfect. The star of the show was Hexham keeper Dave Anderson who pulled off a string of fine saves to protect his side’s unbeaten home record. The result was also encouraging for a Wideopen outfit which had lost both of its previous games in the Second Division.

COUNTY CUPS – REYROLLE ARE STILL ROLLING
The weather also had a devastating effect on County Cup games but Chopwell Officials and Hebburn Reyrolle saw some action in the second round of the Durham FA Trophy. Chopwell’s action wasn’t up to much and they were hammered 7-1 by hosts Chester-le-Street Whitehills but Hebburn Reyrolle made progress by winning 5-3 away to South Shields Simonside with the aid of extra time. Craig Malley, Ray Oshin and Chris Morris netted for Reyrolle but i9t was all square cat 3-3 after ninety minutes. In the extra half hour however the Northern Alliance side out-ran their opponents and further strikes by Malley and Dan Matthews settled the issue.

Weather permitting, Gateshead Rutherford’s home tie in the Durham Trophy against Hartlepool Town SFC will go ahead this weekend along with seven third round games affecting Northern Alliance sides in the Northumberland FA Minor Cup which were also washed out.

Three Alliance flag-bearers – Amble United, Percy Main and Forest Hall - managed to make progress and Amble United did the trick by beating visitors and league colleagues Whitley Bay Town 2-1. Chris Atkin opened the scoring for Whitley early in the second half but it took only another minute for Marc Hume to get United back on terms. And in the 65th minute Amble’s winner was claimed by Ian Common.

Forest Hall did well to beat First Division cup visitors Gosforth Bohemians 3-2 with goals provided by Jamie Gilbert (2) and Tom Jones. Ben Edusei and Harry Tulip replied in vain for the Bohs who couldn’t complain about the outcome.

Wallsend Boys Club switched their home tie in the Minor Cup to Purvis Park, the ground of opponents Percy Main, and gave a good account of themselves before being beaten 3-0 by the current First Division leaders in the Alliance.

The Main were unable to find a breakthrough in the opening half although Malcolm Morien and Steven Shadforth were close to opening their account. However, after 52 minutes the deadlock was broken with a simple goal when Jason Ritchie’s well-delivered flag kick was headed powerfully home by Callum Colbeck.

With their noses in front the Villagers began to apply some pressure and Shaun Wilkinson saw his close range effort palmed round the post by visiting keeper flicked wide by keeper Phil Holgate. But an error by Holgate on the hour mark allowed Percy Main to double their lead and he fumbled a low cross from man-of-the-match Shadforth, allowing the ball to trickle into the net.

After this second setback the Wallsend lads’ heads dropped and the Main were able to tighten their grip on the game. And they were confident enough to introduce substitutes Chris Doig, Joe Betts and Liam Knox in the closing stages. In the 88th minute Knox scored his side’s third goal to wrap up the tie with his brave stooping header from an excellent Betts cross.

By Bill Gardner
Marc Nixon took his season’s total of goals for Wark to twenty-six in his side’s 6-2 home win against Heddon. Now with a clear nine-point lead at the head of the Premier Division, Wark dished out a lesson to their visitors at the opposite end of the table and Nixon led the way with his hat-trick. An own goal gift and strikes by Phil Thompson and Lee Telfer completed Wark’s tally with John Dunn and John Pearson replying for Heddon who remained stuck on the bottom rung.
Defending champions Walker Central are still occupying second place despite a damaging and unexpected dip in form which has seen them pick up only a single point from their last four home games. The Central showed few signs of an improvement and they were beaten 3-0 at Monkchester by Ponteland United, a side they’d hammered 6-1 in the third game of the season.
After only ten minutes Pont broke down the left and, when Marc Dummett’s cross was headed on by Gavin Wood, Richard Kent sent his unstoppable drive into the top corner. More misery was forthcoming for Walker and only five minutes later they conceded another goal. An excellent cross from Kent wasn’t defended well and Wood beat home keeper Matthew Hunter with his powerful header.
Twenty minutes into the second half Pont claimed their third goal after Wood used his height and strength to win the ball. He lofted his pass over a couple of defenders to Max Turner and the winger found the net with a clever lob over the advancing keeper.
Walker were well served in midfield by Marc Rasmussen but they lacked the firepower that was once their trademark and something needs to be done quickly if they are to stand any chance of mounting another championship challenge. At the moment Wark are well ahead of them and showing no signs of slipping up.
Blyth Town moved up another notch and extended their unbeaten run in the Premier Division to five matches with their 2-0 victory away to Murton. The home side held out until midway through the second half but were sunk by Blyth’s two substitutes.
Graeme Heath opened the scoring after 65 minutes of stalemate with his powerful header from what looked like an impossible position but the Town’s lead wasn’t doubled until the 88th minute. Dan Branley, recently signed from Ashington Colliers, marked his debut with Blyth’s second goal to make the points secure. A through ball from Josh Miller was completely misjudged by the Murton keeper, allowing Branley to score with a simple tap-in at close range.
Late starters Newcastle University recorded their first home win, scoring two goals without reply against Ashington Colliers at Cochrane Park. Chris Musounda opened the Students’ account five minutes after half time and there was a prompt second strike by Dave Kewn to make the points secure.
In two first round ties in the Kicks Leisure Challenge Cup, both Seaton Delaval and Shankhouse made progress. Shankhouse needed extra time to beat cup visitors Cramlington Town 3-1. Anthony Moran fired Shankhouse in front straight from the kick off and Cramlington had to wait until the 89th minute for Chris Davison’s equaliser. In the second period of extra time Paul Swithenbank bagged himself a brace to put Shankhouse through.
Seaton Delaval avenged an earlier league defeat by winning 2-0 in their Challenge Cup tie away to Killingworth Sporting thanks to goals in each half put away by Stephen Howes and Paul Baird.
Harraby Catholic Club beat third round visitors Parton United 5-0 in the Cumberland Senior Cup to book a place in the quarter-finals. Parton had knocked out Wearside League outfit Cleator Moor Celtic in the previous round but were soon under pressure. A first half hat-trick for Aaron Roberts who also had a penalty saved put Harraby in charge. Andrew Douglas also netted before the interval and Harraby’s tally was completed after the break by Rob Bainbridge.

DIVISION ONE – PURVIS PARK STRONGHOLD FOR PERCY MAIN
Percy Main held onto pole position in the First Division, two points clear of second-placed Gateshead Rutherford with the same number of games played. The Main haven’t dropped a single point at their Purvis Park base this term and maintained their record by beating lowly visitors Berwick United 4-1.
However, in the first significant action of the match, Berwick’s Simon Hargreaves nodded home Sandro De Oliveira’s precise cross at the back post with only five minutes on the clock to give the visitors a shock early lead.
The Villagers soon recovered their composure and were back on level terms at the interval after Callum Colbeck beat the offside trap for the umpteenth time before rounding United keeper Thompson and rolling the ball in. Then, four minutes into the second half Malcolm Morien put the Main in front from close range after Jason Ritchie's astute quick free kick caught out the Berwick defence.
On the hour mark Colbeck increased the Villagers’ lead, grabbing his second goal with a powerful drive across the keeper after cutting in from the left but in the 75th minute the Main had Mick Haley sent off for a ‘last man’ handling offence. Despite having their numbers reduced however the league leaders added a fourth goal to their tally and Morien netted again when his chance was set up by Shaun Wilkinson.
Percy Main’s most potent rivals Gateshead Rutherford kept the pressure on by extending their unbeaten run into double figures. They were impressive again and won 3-0 away to Cullercoats who have suffered only two defeats in their last eleven outings. Only twenty seconds into the game Rutherford’s Robbie Frame opened the scoring with the help of a deflection and straight from the restart the visitors’ lead was doubled by Richard Biggs. And Rutherford made sure of completing a league double against the Seasiders when Kevin Urwin claimed their third goal midway through the second half.
After losing six league games on the trot, Gosforth Bohemians were delighted to beat Newcastle East End 2-1 at Benson Park. The Bohs trailed to an early goal for the East Enders but soon got their act together. Ben Edusei levelled before the interval and after the break Matt Atkin claimed their vital winner.
In three first round ties in the Pin Point Recruitment Combination Cup in the First Division, Hebburn Reyrolle, Wallington and Amble United all made progress. Hebburn beat visitors Peterlee Town 2-1 to complete a league and cup double. Reyrolle’s Ray Oshin saw his early penalty saved by the home keeper and right on half time David Steel was more successful, scoring from the spot to put Peterlee in front. But the Hebburn lads rallied and two quick second half replies from Simon Jacobs and Chris Morris put them through.
Wallington did exceptionally well to win 5-2 away to Morpeth Sporting Club who were finalists last season under their previous name of Red Row Welfare. Morpeth had Chris Ridgway and John Paxton on target but Wallington gained revenge for an earlier league defeat with goals supplied by Michael Freathy (2), Ben Lavender, Ashley McAlpine and Jack Palmer.
Cup hosts Seaton Burn belied their low ly league status and gave Amble United a hard time but the Seasiders still emerged as 2-0 victors. For the third time this season they left the Burn disappointed and this time their first half goals were claimed by Brad Wake and Chris Moffitt.

DIVISION TWO – WIDEOPEN LOSE SOME GROUND
Only four points are separating Amble, North Shields Athletic and Wideopen & District – the three front runners in the Second Division with North Shields having played one game more than their two promotion rivals. And Wideopen were the only ones to slip up when they were beaten 3-1 away to Wallsend Boys Club. The Boys club had keeper Phil Holgate to thank for a couple of fist class saves and he had no chance to keep out Rob MacDonald’s goal for the visitors. By then the home side was leading 2-0 thanks to strikes by Craig Jones and Rob Nolan and Chris Thompson also scored to complete the winners’ tally.
Current league leaders Amble emerged from a brief dip in form to narrowly beat bottom rung hosts Tynemouth United 2-1 after falling behind to Steve Dickson’s opener for their opponents. Wyn Fremlin’s reply restored parity before Amble’s winner was put away by Michael Straker.
North Shields Athletic also won away from home and after beating Whitley Bay Town 2-0 they’ve won eight of their last ten games in the Second Division. Both of the Athletic’s goals were scored inside two fruitful first half minutes by Antonio Mango and Alex Burn.
Newcastle Chemfica and Wallsend Town are threatening to join the exclusive group at the top of the table and fourth-placed Chemfica very impressively won 6-0 away to Stobswood Welfare. The Welfare had just won seven games on the trot but were outplayed in this one. Goals for Michael Crozier (2), Anthony Bruce (2), Martin Dixon and Mark Burlingston were just reward for a sterling performance by Chemfica.
Wallsend Town seem to be picking up again and have won all of their last three league games. Their latest victims were visitors Cullercoats Custom Planet who were soundly beaten 4-1 by the Town whose scorers were Liam Bell (2), Stephen Dodd and Kevin Smith.
Forest Hall retained their unbeaten home record with their 2-1 victory over Hexham who have been travelling badly this term. Nathan Lajevardi and Kevin Baldwin were the Forest Hall marksmen with Hexham’s reply coming from Scott Coates.
New boys Swalwell have tasted defeat only once in their last seven outings but were fortunate to beat fellow-newcomers Cramlington Blue Star 1-0 at Derwenthaugh. Midway through the opening half Graeme Marshall blasted his penalty wide for Blue Star and they eventually paid for this miss. With only seconds remaining Swalwell scored an unlikely match-winner claimed by Stuart Rook.
Willington Quay Saints had drawn three and lost two of five most recent games so a 3-1 home win against Newcastle BT was a welcome development. Goals for the Saints shared by Glen Johnson, Wes Fidler and Stuart Duffield ended what had been a promising run by BT who had Richard Beverley on target for their consolation goal.

By Bill Gardner
Home games in Cumbria involving Carlisle City and Harraby Catholic Club were both washed out and, while second-placed Walker Central were lying idle, Wark increased their lead at the head of the table to six points.
The league leaders however were lucky to claim their fifth successive away win and needed a late goal to beat Seaton Delaval 2-1 at Wheatridge Park. Tony Lancaster’s 40th minute opener for Wark was cancelled out by Delaval’s Stephen Howes midway through the second half. The home side was then twice denied by the woodwork and only seconds remained when Mark Campbell scored Wark’s winner.
In third spot, Heaton Stannington extended an unbeaten run to six games but should have done better than drawing 2-2 away to Cramlington Town. Thanks to strikes by Gary Yates and Iain Irvin in the 14th and 17th minutes, Heaton looked set to overpower their hosts. But Jordan Watson got the Town off the mark with almost the last kick of the opening half and on the hour Danny Long equalised to earn a precious point for the home side.
Killingworth Sporting are now sharing fourth place with Carlisle City after beating visitors Murton 3-2. Killy improved on their early season draw in the reverse fixture and this time goals shared by Liam Callaghan, Anthony Burns and Kevin Westphal saw them pick up maximum points. Murton replied through Stephen Turner and player-manage r Andrew Upperton but are yet to win on their travels.
Stocksfield’s impressive away form was in evidence again in their 2-0 victory over Ponteland United at the Leisure Centre Ground. Ponteland made one change from the team that had pulled off a great cup victory at Wark on the previous Saturday with Gavin Wood replacing the suspended Liam McIvor.
Wood made his presence felt after ten minutes when he collected a clever back heel from Billy Holden and saw his left foot drive cannon off the inside of the post and into the grateful arms of visiting keeper Peter Adnitt.
Stocksfield were looking strong and organised at the back and Ben Pearson and Tom Finnerty were willing runners up front. They were awarded a penalty after 20 minutes when Tony Anzevui brought down visiting striker Wayne Stewart with his desperate lunging tackle. Stewart himself beat Michael Havelock from the spot.
Right on half time Stewart got his second goal of the game, getting in front of Havelock to score with a powerful header from Tony Dowson’s flag kick. And, although Pont had opportunities to make a comeback, Gavin Wood and Anzevui sent their shots wide of the target.
Another scoring chance fell to Ponteland substitute Richard Kent but he also pulled his drive wide of the post after latching onto Max Turner’s perfect through ball. But the Stocksfield defence was impressive and the Tynedale lads held on for the three points.
Blyth Town have been inching their way up the Premier Division table and a 2-1 win at home to Shankhouse helped them on their way again. Following a goal-less first half Chris Lisle netted for Blyth straight after the changeover when his chance was set up by Danny Beresford. The Town’s lead was doubled by Tom Haigh midway through the second half when he raced onto Craig Hopwood’s cross to fire into the bottom corner. And, although Kevin Gustard replied in 80 minutes for Shankhouse, time ran out for the visitors.
Heddon still haven’t won at their Bullocksteads base and Alnwick Town heaped on more misery by beating their hosts 2-1. Two goals late in the first half scored by Kevin Elliott and Tony Brown perked up Alnwick who had lost their three previous league games. Three minutes after the interval Daniel Robinson pulled a goal back for Heddon but a determined Alnwick rearguard held out to secure a much-needed victory.

DIVISION ONE – PERCY MAIN ARE THE NEW LEADERS
The Cumbrian floods put paid to home games involving Carlisle City and Harraby Catholic Club in the Premier Division along with Northbank versus Cullercoats in the first Division. But in one of only three First Division matches Percy Main nudged previous leaders Gateshead Rutherford out of pole position by winning 5-1 at home to Newcastle East End.
With the East End making the early running it was surprising when Steven Shadforth opened the scoring for the Villagers on the half hour mark when he slotted home from David Tapsfield’s perfectly weighted through ball.
However, East End roared back with a quality equaliser, with Anthony Studholme prodding in Paul Bright’s cross at the near post. This goal proved to be a wake-up call for Percy Main and two minutes after the interval they regained the lead. Tony Browell’s headed pass into the box was powerfully driven home by Shaun Wilkinson who was subsequently named as man-of-the-match.
Then three goals in a devastating twelve-minute spell ended the resistance of Newcastle East End who had played a full part in an entertaining game. Callum Colbeck increased the Main’s le ad with his close range effort following a goalmouth scramble and Jonathan McEnaney claimed their fourth goal after Malcolm Morien’s drive was only parried by the East End keeper. Then after 68 minutes the Villagers’ tally was topped up by Graeme Smith who forced the ball over the line when Morien's cross caused chaos in the visitors’ penalty area.
Morpeth Sporting Club are determined to have a say in this season’s title race in the First Division and have been a revelation since changing their name from Red Row Welfare. Astutely managed by Richard Latimer, Morpeth are now in a threatening fourth spot after leapfrogging over Whitley Bay A.
Before Morpeth’s visit to Hillheads the Bay had been unbeaten at home but in a thrilling encounter they ended up losing 5-3. The Whitley goalscorers were Jack Walker (2) and Mark Waite but the Sporting Club deservedly picked up the points. Player-coach Latimer led by example with his brace for the visitors whose other goals were supplied by Chris Tate, Chris Bainbridge and Scott Pocklington.
South Shields United have lost their last three games and were surprisingly beaten 4-3 by lowly hosts Berwick United who badly needed these points. Aaron Kah, Dominic Mossa and Gary Newbrook found the net for South Shields but they left empty-handed with the Borderers just edging it with strikes by Mike Robinson (2), Simon Hargreaves and Leigh Walker.

DIVISION TWO – CHEMFICA FELL FOREST
As in the First Division there were only three games beating the weather in the Second Division with Newcastle Chemfica, Wallsend Town and Newcastle BT all recording home wins.
In fifth place, Chemfica stayed ahead of visitors Forest Hall in the pecking order by beating the Hall 2-0 and they’ve now won seven of their last nine games on home turf. In this latest victory their goals were supplied by Michael Crozier and substitute Martin Dixon to leave their opponents still suffering from a damaging spell of travel sickness.
After losing their two previous home games, Wallsend Town got back to winning ways at Swalwell’s expense and beat their visitors 4-1. Ryan Arnott opened the scoring for Wallsend who were always in charge and their later marksmen were Mick Garwood, Stephen Cape and Kevin Smith. Chris Smith replied for Swalwell but they couldn’t complain about their five-match unbeaten run coming to an end.
Newcastle BT have won three and drawn three of their last six games on their own patch and are occupying a respectable mid-table slot. They beat Tynemouth United 3-1 to leave their bottom rung visitors still without a single point from their travels this term. United however held out for an hour before two quick strikes by Gregg Hamilton and Carl Aziz gave their hosts a decided edge. A reply from Kevin Murphy raised Tynemouth’s hopes but they were killed off when Sean Blakey scored BT’s third goal in the 89th minute.

LEAGUE CUP LATEST
Meanwhile, the draw has been made for the third round of the Kicks Leisure League Cup with ties due to be played on Saturday 19th December. Only eight Premier Division clubs have retained an interest in this season’s competition.
The third round pairings are: Whitley Bay A or Shankhouse v Gosforth Bohemians;
Stobswood Welfare v Heaton Stannington; Newcastle Chemfica v Ponteland United;
Cullercoats Custom Planet v Heddon; Chopwell Officials v Blyth Town;
Wark v Harraby Catholic; Newcastle University v Wallington;
Hebburn Reyrolle v Wallsend Boys Club

By Bill Gardner
Four of the eight scheduled first round ties in the Kicks Leisure Challenge Cup had to be postponed due to waterlogging and the surviving games provided some upsets.
Heddon on the Premier Division’s bottom rung provided the round’s biggest surprise by winning 3-2 in their cup clash with second-placed Walker Central at Monkchester. The Central had comfortably beaten their visitors 5-1 in an earlier league fixture but it was a different story this time.

A successful spot kick taken by Liam Mulligan put Walker in front midway through the first half but they were overtaken when Heddon’s Daniel Dunn and John Dunn replied on either side of the interval. Mulligan’s second strike after 73 minutes lifted the home side’s spirits but only two minutes later Ian McElroy weighed in with Heddon’s winner. And it’s been a horrendous five-week spell for Walker who have made early exits from the NFA Senior Bowl, League Cup and now the Challenge Cup.

There was another shock up the Tyne Valley where current Premier Division leaders Wark were also beaten 3-2 by cup visitors Ponteland United. The two sides had drawn 1-1 in the identical league meeting and this was another close encounter.

After fifteen tense minutes Pont started to get into the game and they opened the scoring when Liam McIvor cut in from the right to drill a low shot past home keeper Shaun Sagar from the edge of the box. And five minutes later McIvor bagged his second goal from a similar position, following good work by Max Turner.

After being two goals to the good Ponteland allowed Wark to get back into the game and a minute before half time Wark’s leading goalscorer Marc Nixon was left unmarked to head home.
Then, five minutes into the second half Wark restored parity and, when Craig Daglish mistimed a tackle and a penalty was awarded, Nixon stepped up to score his second goal of the game.

A real cut and thrust cup-tie ensued with Wark showing clearly why they’re heading the Premier Division table. But the Ponteland lads worked their socks off with Anthony Anzevui, Glenn Ford and Marc Dummett prominent in defence. And after 70 minutes the issue was settled when Billy Holden claimed Pont’s vital winner, ending his solo run with a curling shot past Sagar into the top corner.

With a hitherto excellent home record, Heaton Stannington had a league and cup double in their sights when Blyth Town dropped in at Grounsell Park. But they were left disappointed and a fast-improving Blyth outfit beat them 2-1 to avenge an earlier league defeat.

Craig Hopwood fired the Town in front within ten minutes of the kick off but regular marksman Adam Donaghey netted to get Heaton back on terms with almost the first kick of the second half. His reply didn’t upset Blyth too much and their efforts were rewarded just after an hour when Neil Blades, who had recently returned to the club, put away their vital second goal.
Almost as expected, Harraby Catholic Club proved too strong for first round hosts Murton and emerged as comfortable 5-0 victors.

Harraby arrived at a surprisingly dry ground at Murton from the ‘wetlands’ of Cumbria and made a very bright start. After Andrew Douglas and James Earl both tested home keeper Aiden Vout they opened their account after 22 minutes as David Hewson, returning from injury, volleyed home from Earl’s lofted free kick.

Douglas increased the visitors’ lead on the half hour when a defensive mix-up allowed him to pick his spot from ten yards and Harraby always threatened on the break in the second half. Goals put away by Daniel Balmer, Dan Wordsworth and Hewson added to their tally with Hewson claiming his second goal after seeing off several Murton challengers on his way.
Postponed ties involving Carlisle City v Alnwick Town, Killingworth Sporting v Seaton Delaval and Shankhouse v Cramlington Town have been rearranged for Saturday 28th November.

DIVISION ONE – PERCY MAIN ISSUE A WARNING TO LEADERS
In the First Division, the top first round tie in the Pin Point Recruitment Combination Cup was the meeting of league leaders Rutherford with second-placed visitors Percy Main. And after recovering from a two-goal half time deficit the Main snatched a notable 3-2 victory.

Rutherford opened the scoring on the half hour mark when Andrew Reay received a pass from Kevin Urwin, beating the offside trap before lofting the ball over the advancing Percy Main keeper Phil Hogg. Then, right on half time the home side’s lead was doubled by Urwin who scored from the rebound when his first effort was palmed out by Hogg.

It didn’t take the Villagers too long to launch their rescue act and only five minutes after the change-over Joe Betts got them off the mark when he ran onto Steve Shadforth’s through ball to score from the edge of the box. Only six minutes later the Main were back on level terms with Malcolm Morien equalizing with his powerful header from Jason Ritchie’s free kick. And with seven minutes to spare Rutherford were finally killed off by Morien’s second goal of the game. This time he beat home keeper Richard Swann after being put clear by a slide rule pass from Betts.

A run of success continued for Cullercoats who avenged an earlier 4-0 league defeat by beating first round visitors 3-1 in the cup. The Seasiders booked themselves a second round slot with goals shared by Sean Smith, Stewart Wright and Dave Fairless.

South Shields United also made progress and they too gained revenge after visitors Gosforth Bohemians had beaten them 3-1 in a league fixture. This time United beat the 2008 Combination Cup winners 2-0 with both of their goals scored in the opening half by Jack Lawton and Gary Errington.

In their first meeting this term Berwick United needed extra time to beat their cup hosts Newcastle East End 3-2. First half strikes by Andrew Hall and Paul Bright had apparently set up the East Enders for a rare victory but the Borderers booked an extra time reprieve with replies from Craig Heugh and Sandro De Oliviera after the break. Then, in the 18th minute of extra time Leigh Walker snatched Berwick’s winner.

The three first round ties which had to be postponed – Morpeth Sporting Club v Wallington, Seaton Burn v Amble United and Northbank v cup holders Whitley Bay – have been rescheduled for Saturday 28th November when Hebburn Reyrolle will also be hosting cup opponents Peterlee Town.

Due to the unavailability of Hebburn’s ground last weekend the Reyrolle lads went to Peterlee for a league game and picked up three points from a 2-1 victory. David Steel scored from the spot to give the Newtowners an interval lead but Chris Morris levelled for Hebburn and their vital second goal was put away by Simon Jacobs.

DIVISION TWO – HOLDERS FOREST GO THROUGH
In the Second Division, Pin Point Recruitment Amateur Cup holders Forest Hall got their defence of the trophy underway with a 3-1 first round victory at home to Whitley Bay Town. Their goals were provided by Mark Knights, Ben Gibson and Ryan Anderson with youthful striker Chris Fairley replying for the Bay.

Stobswood Welfare stood up well to a first half physical onslaught by cup hosts Wallsend Town before emerging as worthy 2-0 victors. Stephen Gibbard opened the scoring only a couple of minutes before the interval and in the second half the Welfare produced some impressive football. To ensure that they made progress their second goal was slotted in on the hour mark by regular scorer Josh Hay.

Cullercoats Custom Planet completed a league and cup double at Cramlington Blue Star’s expense but, despite having home advantage, needed the luxury of extra time to show the Star the exit door. Cramlington had cancelled out Andrew McCartney’s opener but Liam Graham restored the Planet’s lead to put them into the next round.

Extra time was also needed to obtain Newcastle Chemfica’s 3-1 win away to Willington Quay Saints with the score level at 1-1 after ninety minutes. Chemfica’s Mark Burlingston had quickly cancelled out Callum Ancrum’s first half opener for the Saints and during the extra half hour there were further strikes by Anthony Bruce and John-Paul Bradley for the visitors.
Amble recorded the first round’s most convincing victory in beating visitors Hexham 6-1, a surprising outcome following their goal-less draw in the league at Wentworth Park. Scott Coates scored from the penalty spot for Hexham’s consolation goal and they were well beaten by a livelier Amble outfit. Stu Marshall completed a hat-trick for the winners whose other marksmen were Stuart Oman, Shaun Jobson and Wyn Fremlin.

Newcastle BT have been showing considerable improvement this term and progressed in the cup thanks to their 2-0 home win against Swalwell who restricted them to a draw in the corresponding league fixture. Whitley Bay based striker Richard Beverley has proved a great signing for BT and he bagged himself a first half brace to see off Swalwell.

Wallsend Boys Club lost interest in the Amateur Cup after losing 2-1 at home to North Shields Athletic who were fired into a telling lead by Antonio Mango and Dan Walton. Rob Nolan trimmed the deficit for the Boys Club but they never looked capable of changing the course of the game.

Meanwhile, Wideopen & District’s scorers in their easy 4-0 cup win at home to Tynemouth United were Liam Jubb (2), Jack Steel and Richie Curran.

By Bill Gardner
After being neck-and-neck with Walker Central for a couple of weeks, Wark have finally claimed pole position and are three points clear of their Tyneside rivals. Wark made it five away wins on the trot by beating Cramlington Town 5-0 and had John Famelton, Mark Campbell and Daniel Carter on target to put them in charge by half time. After the break Tony Lancaster bagged a quick-fire brace to complete the nap hand.

Wark were helped by Walker Central’s 3-1 defeat by Blyth Town which ended the Central’s hundred percent record away from home. Craig Bryce fired the Central into a fifth minute lead which survived for almost an hour. Mark Waugh’s spot kick got Blyth off the mark and they were put in front when Walker’s Kye Walton turned the ball into his own net. Danny Beresford scored a third goal for Blyth who had picked only two points from three previous outings.

Heaton Stannington leapfrogged over Carlisle City into third spot after beating the Cumbrians 4-0 at Grounsell Park. While this was City’s first defeat on their travels, Heaton have emerged as serious title contenders with a useful game in hand. First half goals for Adam Donaghey and Gary Yates rocked the visitors and both players found the net again after the interval with Donaghey’s second being an 80th minute penalty.

Fifth-placed Killingworth Sporting have been regaining some consistency and proved the point by winning 2-0 away to Newcastle University. The Students had beaten highly-rated Walker Central last weekend and Killy had to work hard for these points. Jorge Bollado opened the scoring after fifteen minutes and the same player eased his side’s anxiety when he bagged his second with only five minutes to spare.

Ponteland United’s eight-match unbeaten run has included four draws and another one looked likely when Seaton Delaval visited the Leisure Centre Ground. The match was evenly balanced in the first half with few clear cut chances although Craig Johnson went close for the visitors and Glenn Ford for the hosts saw his downward header well saved by Delaval keeper Frazer Nairn.

Pont had just about shaded the game in terms of possession and after the break they introduced midfielder Paul Hodgson who was ending a lengthy suspension. And he started to drive United forward. The pace of Sean Willis and Billy Holden was causing Delaval some problems and Holden had the best chance of the game. Willis’s goal-bound effort was well saved by keeper Nairn but from the rebound he volleyed the ball over the bar with the goal at his mercy.

Delaval however remained in determined mood and their best chance of the second half fell to Stephen Anderson but his header from Stephen Torre’s excellent cross just cleared the bar. With ten minutes remaining Willis got clear for Pont but was cut down in the penalty area. He got up to beat Nairn with his spot kick to end the deadlock.

Jeff Fuller came on as a substitute for Delaval but his time on the field was very brief and he was sent off for violent retaliation. And although five minutes of stoppage time were added, Pont saw out the game safely with Glenn Ford and Anthony Anzevui looking solid at the back.

Stocksfield secured only their second home win with a narrow 4-3 victory over strugglers Heddon who remain on the bottom rung. Ben Pearson completed a hat-trick for the winners whose other scorer was Wayne Stewart. Ian McElroy (2) and Dan Robinson replied in vain for Heddon.

Both Alnwick Town and visitors Harraby Catholic Club had been showing indifferent form before meeting up at St James’ Park but the Cumbrians emerged as 2-0 victors. Harraby’s Stephen Archibald had an early goal chalked off for offside and Alnwick’s Scott McMullen saw his powerful header tipped over by visiting keeper Andy Casson. But it was the Cumbrians who took the lead after 24minutes when Rob Bainbridge’s low cross was hammered in by Archibald.

Richard Brown was near to restoring parity for Alnwick but his drive clipped the upright and after the break Harraby were on top. After a couple of near misses by Bainbridge they doubled their lead in the 52nd minute when Archibald bagged his second goal from close range.

With only one home win to their credit so far Ashington Colliers entertained a Murton side seeking its first away win and the resulting 1-1 draw left both disappointed. Craig Wilson opened the scoring for Murton straight from the kick off but after half an hour Marc Richardson levelled for the Colliers.

A 1-0 victory over Whitley Bay A at Hillheads earned Shankhouse a third round slot in the Kicks Leisure League Cup when they will be at home to Gosforth Bohemians.

DIVISIONS ONE & TWO – RARE WIN FOR NORTHBANK
Things are going badly for Newcastle East End in the First Division where they’ve suffered seven straight home defeats and are now stuck in the basement.. The East Enders allowed fellow-strugglers Northbank to pick up their first points away from home and the Cumbrians beat their desperate hosts 4-0 to lift themselves off the bottom rung. Two Dave Glendinning goals in the first half put Northbank on course for a rare victory. After the break Glendinning completed his hat-trick for the visitors whose fourth goal was claimed by Martin Coward.
Now in second place, Percy Main are only a point behind First Division leaders Gateshead Rutherford with an important game in hand. And for the second time in a week the Villagers beat South Shields United 2-0, this time away from home. It took only two minutes for Malcolm Morien to put the Main in front when he raced onto an astute pass from Tony Browell. The lead was doubled after 59 minutes when Steven Shadforth found the net after being put clean through by Joe Betts.

Cullercoats are still a long way short of joining the current pace-setters but they’ve struck a rich vein of form and have only tasted defeat once in their last ten outings. The Seasiders gained revenge for a 2-1 early season defeat by soundly beating hosts Peterlee Town 4-0. Steve Hart was a hat-trick hero for the winners and their tally was completed by an own goal presented to them by Peterlee’s Paul Callan.

These were the only three First Division league games down for decision and there was only one match played for points in the Second Division. Improving Swalwell climbed into mid-table and their 1-1 draw with visitors Willington Quay Saints extended an unbeaten run five games. Wes Fidler gave the Saints the lead just before half time but their hopes of clinching a first away win were shattered when Chris Smith levelled for Swalwell after the break.

The three First Division outfits in the Durham FA Trophy – Chopwell Officials, Hebburn Reyrolle and Gateshead Rutherford – all made progress in the competition.
Chopwell needed extra time to see off cup visitors Cornforth United to the tune of 2-1 and after Cornforth’s John Cook cancelled out Mark Fitzpatrick’s opener they were thankful for Andrew Smith’s winner.

Hebburn Reyrolle also won 2-1 although they were rather fortunate at home to Norton & Stockton Ancients Reserves after being given a boost by the early goals of Chris Morris and Dan Matthews. And Gateshead Rutherford cut it fine by winning 1-0 away to Shildon Railway with Ross Greenhill scoring the tie’s only goal from the spot with only ten minutes to go.

NFA MINOR CUP LATEST
Nineteen Northern Alliance Clubs were involved in second round ties in the Ideal Stelrad Northumberland Minor Cup and six of them fell at this hurdle. Wideopen & District, Cramlington Blue Star, Seaton Burn, Hexham, Tynemouth United and North Shields Athletic were all shown the exit door.

In three all-Northern Alliance clashes in the cup Amble United, Berwick United and Wallington all ended the hopes of league colleagues and Amble United won 4-0 at home to Tynemouth with goals shared by Brent Aisbitt, Mark Hume, Lee Harker and Paul White who completed his side’s tally in stoppage time.

Berwick United just edged out cup hosts Cramlington Blue Star by winning 2-1 but the Star were unfortunate. They had Jonathan Wardle on target but after Mike Robinson opened Berwick’s account the Borderers were presented with an own goal winner.

Wallington were 4-3 victors at Scots Gap but their colleagues North Shields Athletic gave them a run for their money. Paul Crate and Ashley McAlpine bagged two goals each for Wallington and replies from Athletic’s Dan Walton, Matt Donkin and Gary Farrage just fell short of what was required.

Amble, Forest Hall, Wallsend Boys Club, Morpeth Sporting Club, Gosforth Bohemians, Stobswood Welfare, Newcastle Chemfica, Wallsend Town, Whitley Bay Town and Newcastle BT were among the Alliance sides booking places in the Minor Cup’s third round.

Wallsend Boys Club won 6-0 at Belford, Morpeth Sporting Club cruised through by winning 7-1 away to Berwick Town and Newcastle BT beat cup hosts Wooler 6-2.
Gosforth Bohemians recorded the second round’s most convincing victory by hammering Tyne View of Blakelaw 10-0 at Benson Park. Matt Atkin scored four of the goals, Harry Tulip bagged two more and the rest were supplied by Danny Sherwood, Paul Hodge, Aaron Taylor and Liam Riley.

Kevin Bell and Adam Shanks were Amble’s marksmen in their 2-0 success at home to Newcastle Diggers United while Forest Hall won 3-1 away to Bamburgh Castle thanks to strikes by Michael Sandberg, Jamie Gilbert and Tom Faid.

Newcastle Chemfica’s tie at Rothbury finished goal-less after extra time but the Northern Alliance hopefuls won 4-3 in a penalty shoot-out. But no penalties were needed by Stobswood Welfare, Wallsend Town and Whitley Bay Town to ensure their progress.

Stobswood had Josh Hay (hat-trick), Steve Gibbard and James Davison on target to beat cup hosts Newcastle Pin Point 5-1 and last season’s losing finalists Wallsend Town won 4-1 at home to Newcastle Chemfica A thanks to goals scored by Lee Sommers (2), Pat Masuka and Graham McMillan.

Whitley Bay Town put their recent league problems behind them to record a 3-1 second round victory against visitors Springhill Berwick. 16-year-old debutant Chris Fairley, signed from Tynemouth United, scored twice for the Bay and Chris Atkin claimed their third goal.

By Bill Gardner
Newcastle University lifted off the Premier Division’s bottom rung after claiming their first win in some style. The Students beat hosts Walker Central 2-1 in a top versus bottom clash and had Will Deledicq bagging a vital second half brace after Paul Mills had fired the Central into an interval lead.

This surprising setback for Walker was mirrored up the Tyne Valley where their fellow-pacesetters Wark were also beaten 2-1 by Heaton Stannington. Daniel Carter netted for Wark but their fourth-placed visitors secured the points with two goals for Gary Yates.

With Walker Central and Wark still sharing identical records in pole position, nearest rivals Carlisle City trimmed their lead to three points and the Cumbrians have a useful game in hand. City continued their successful run with a 4-2 win at home to Cramlington Town.

In third spot Carlisle City were boosted by the setbacks suffered by the joint leaders and they narrowed the points gap by winning 4-2 at home to Cramlington Town. Ollie Driver netted twice for City in the opening half but Cramlington rallied with replies from Stuart Heppell and Andrew Carr restoring parity.

Cramlington deserved a share of the spoils in a game marred by the brandishing of eight yellow cards – five for Crammy and three for City - but Carlisle surged ahead again with further strikes by Carl Armstrong and Scott Priest wrapping up the points.

Like Heaton Stannington, Killingworth Sporting are continuing to threaten on the fringes of the title race and they sharpened up their challenge by beating Seaton Delaval 3-2 at Wheatridge Park. Goals for Stephen Ardley and Michael Fenwick midway through the first half gave Delaval a clear lead but Killy’s Francesco Di Pietro and Kevin Westphal hit back just before the break. After Jorge Bollado scored the visitors’ third, Delaval had little to offer and they now face a struggle to get out of the basement.

Stocksfield climbed into the top half of the table with a 1-0 victory over hosts Shankhouse to avenge their earlier defeat at Prudhoe. After winning two games on the trot Shankhouse were stopped in their tracks and Josh Brooks scored Stocksfield’s winner a few minutes before half time.

Ponteland United visited Harraby Catholic Club – a team Pont hadn’t beaten on their own patch since the Cumbrians joined the Northern Alliance League. Both sides had good opportunities to get off the mark with Harraby’s Steve Archibald seeing his drive palmed round the post by keeper Michael Havelock and Sean Willis bringing a good save out of Andy Casson at the other end.

Half time arrived with the game still scoreless although Harraby had enjoyed most of the possession. Chances became scarcer after the break but the best fell to Pont’s Andrew Davidson who fired wildly over the bar from Liam McIvor’s cross when the goal was at his mercy.

With 20 minutes remaining there was a flash point and a robust challenge by McIvor on the home side’s Dan Wordsworth resulted in a melee and the sending off of both players. Ponteland then had the better of late r exchanges and just after Billy Holden’s shot smacked the crossbar they grabbed the only goal of the game. The 80th minute winner was scored by substitute Max Turner who hammered a low cross from Dean Gate past helpless keeper Casson. And the 1-0 victory was welcomed by a Ponteland side that had just drawn three games on the trot.
Heddon are still waiting for their first win at Bullocksteads after being beaten 3-1 by Ashington Colliers and replacing Newcastle University on the bottom rung. An early brace for Scott Smith gave the Colliers a great start and, although Ian McElroy quickly replied for Heddon, Ashington’s tally was completed by Glen Bolton in the second half.

Murton ended a dismal run with a 2-1 victory at home to Alnwick Town after their visitors had been fired into a fifth minute lead by Tom Vickers. Chris Wilson opened Murton’s account after 80 minutes and in the dying seconds also snatched his side’s winner.

DIVISION ONE – RUTHERFORD LOOK OVER THEIR SHOULDERS
Gateshead Rutherford are four points clear at the head of the First Division but with games in hand both Percy Main and Amble United are putting the pressure on. All three title contenders won last weekend and Rutherford passed another major test. Unbeaten in their last nine games and still unbeaten at home the Gateshead lads beat in-form visitors Morpeth Sporting Club 2-1 with the final score flattering their opponents. Andrew Reay fired Rutherford into an interval lead which was wiped out by Morpeth’s Michael Dixon straight after the break. There was a series of misses by the league leaders before Kevin Urwin claimed their 83rd minute winner with his header from a right wing corner.

Second-placed Percy Main have a hundred percent record at Purvis Park and extended it by beating South Shields United 2-0. It took only nine minutes for the Main to go in front and, following indecision by the visiting keeper and his full back, Chris Lock netted from close range. The Shieldsmen battled hard to try to get back on terms but the Villagers’ lead was doubled after 57 minutes. Player-manager Jason Ritchie scored from approaching forty yards with his left foot to make the points secure.

A week off didn’t have any effect on Amble United’s determination and the Seasiders marked their return to action with a 5-1 victory away to Newcastle East End. Brent Aisbitt opened United’s account in the first half but straight after the interval Anthony Johnson levelled for the East Enders. In the last half hour however Amble’s pressure paid off in the shape of further goals supplied by substitute Darren Riddell (2), Greg Dance (penalty) and Paul White.

Whitley Bay A’s chances of closing the gap on the top three suffered a blow when they were beaten 2-1 by hosts Chopwell Officials who had lost their three previous games at Welfare Park. Two goals put away by Daniel Johnson changed Chopwell’s fortunes with the Bay only managing a token reply by Ian Lee.

Peterlee Town, now in sixth spot, are proving to be successful travellers and they’ve won five of their six away games so far. The Newtowners continued the trend with a 5-2 victory over lowly hosts Berwick United with four of their goals scored by Elliott McGiade. The fifth was claimed by Louis Smith with Berwick’s two replies coming from Paul Richardson and Craig Heugh.

Cullercoats are staging a remarkable recovery, suffering only one defeat in their last nine outings, and they hammered struggling visitors Seaton Burn 6-0 to stay on course. Stewart Wright and Steve Hart bagged a brace each and the Cullercoats tally was completed by Sean Smith and Rob Watson.

Wallington became the latest tormentors of Gosforth Bohemians who have lost six league games on the trot and were beaten 3-2 at Scots Gap. Ashley McAlpine (2) and Michael Freathy were Wallington’s marksmen with Paul Menton and Harry Tulip scoring for the losers.

With only one win to their credit and perching on the bottom rung, Northbank parted company with manager Stuart Darlington before losing again, 4-3 at home to Hebburn Reyrolle. Hebburn’s scorers were Simon Jacobs (2), Chris Morris and Dan Matthews. Jonathan Mason, Luke Barwick and Jack Twentyman replied for the Cumbrians who have had absolutely no luck in this campaign.

DIVISION TWO – PACE-SETTERS ARE STUMBLING
Only a single point is separating leaders Amble from second-placed Wideopen & District at the top of the Second Division table. but both have been inconsistent lately and North Shields Athletic are coming up on the rails.

Amble have picked up only a single point from three recent outings and could only draw 0-0 with hosts Hexham who are proving difficult to beat at Wentworth Park. And Wideopen & District fared even worse when beaten 4-2 at home by Wallsend Town. After losing three consecutive games the Town were determined to make their mark in this one and in a physical encounter came out on top thanks to Ryan Arnott’s hat-trick and another goal for Paul McCutcheon. Replies from Liam Jubb and Martin Roper couldn’t save Wideopen.

North Shields Athletic consolidated their position in third spot although they’ve played a game more than their top of the table rivals. Following a brief lean spell the Athletic are back to winning ways and comfortably beat hosts Cramlington Blue Star 3-0. Their first half scorer was Jonathan Greaves and after the break Graham Williams bagged a brace which included a penalty.

Games in hand are promising Stobswood Welfare a future starring role in the race for promotion and they’ve won their last seven games in the Second Division. In-form visitors Forest Hall with a ten-match unbeaten run were expected to give the Welfare a hard time but the Stobswood lads emerged as 2-0 victors with both of their goals tucked away in the opening half by Matthew Graham.

Newcastle Chemfica leapfrogged over Forest Hall into fifth spot and picked up their first points away from home by beating bottom rung opponents Tynemouth United 3-1. Although Tynemouth’s Chris Grieves managed to cancel out Mike Smith’s opener, Chemfica’s lead was restored by Dean Calvert and Mark Burlingston also netted to complete the scoring.
Swalwell recorded their second home win and scored the weekend’s quickest goal when Jonnie Graham netted only a half a minute into their game with Cullercoats Custom Planet. Graham’s second goal plus Chris Smith’s strike earned Swalwell an eventual 3-1 verdict with Andrew McCartney claiming the Planet’s consolation goal.

Newcastle BT are enjoying themselves much more in this campaign as they strive for a place in the top half of the table and a 3-1 win away to Wallsend Boys Club was quite impressive. BT’s second win on their travels was achieved with goals scored by Richard Beverley (2) and Dan Sherliker. Rob Nolan was the Boys Club’s lone marksman and they’ve only earned a single point from four recent games.

Whitley Bay Town seem on the way to solving some of their problems and a 2-2 draw with visitors Willington Quay Saints was well earned. After David Smith put the Saints in front at half time the Town hit back through Ben Kiddie and Andy Laird to snatch the lead. But in the 80th minute Wes Fidler’s goal earned Willington a share of the spoils.

By Bill Gardner
There were two notable fallers in the second round of the Kicks Leisure League Cup with Premier Division outfits Walker Central and Seaton Delaval both bowing out. Walker Central had been beaten 3-0 at Alnwick Town in the NFA Senior Bowl on the previous Saturday and they suffered an identical reverse in the League Cup. Visitors Heaton Stannington avenged an earlier league defeat with goals by Kevin Carr, Lawrence McKenna and Adam Donaghey.

In another all-Premier Division encounter Blyth Town beat cup hosts Murton 4-0. Two first half strikes by Craig Hopwood and Danny Beresford put Blyth on course for an easy victory. Their goals tally was completed after the break by Tom Haigh and Craig Robinson.

Seaton Delaval were on the receiving end of one of the League Cup’s biggest upsets when they were beaten 2-1 away to Second Division opponents Wallsend Boys Club. Paul Baird netted for Delaval but his goal was outweighed by replies from Andy McBride and Chris Musgrave to put the Boys Club into the next round. This was a thoroughly deserved success for the minnows who could have won by a greater margin but for the heroics of the Seaton Delaval keeper.

Last season’s losing League Cup finalists Harraby Catholic Club coasted through thanks to their 6-0 home win against Berwick United with the Cumbrians’ goals supplied by Daniel Balmer (2), Alan Casey, James Earl, Marc Shiel and John Dowell.

Newcastle University avoided a possible banana skin by beating Morpeth Sporting Club 5-2 at Cochrane Park. Dave Kewn helped himself to four of the Students’ goals with Edwin Tizard claiming the fifth. Morpeth’s replies came from Paul Bullock and Michael Dixon.

Andrew Davidson (2) and Billy Holden scored Ponteland United’s goals in their 3-1 cup win away to North Shields Athletic who replied through Liam Bone. And Heddon used the League Cup platform to record their first win of the season, beating Percy Main 2-1 at Purvis Park.

The Main had won all of their previous games this season on home turf but the run came to an end and John Dunn scored both of their goals. His first on the quarter hour was slightly against the run of play but a good individual effort after he beat off several challenges.

Dunn was on target again to double Heddon’s lead after 75 minutes as he raced onto David Edwardson’s through ball, evaded Steve Shadforth’s tackle and rounded home keeper Bob Rodgerson to fire into the unguarded net. There was a glimmer of hope for the Villagers when Jason Ritchie scored from the spot after Callum Colbeck was floored in the area but at that point time was against the home side.

Premier Division leaders Wark cleared their second round hurdle at the expense of four-time cup winners Carlisle City. With home advantage Wark won 4-1 and had Marc Nixon (hat-trick) and Phil Thompson on target before City’s 80th minute consolation goal was provided by Ollie Driver.

Desperate for league points, Shankhouse had drawn three and lost two of their previous five league games so their 4-1 victory against Stocksfield at Prudhoe was a very welcome event. Michael Bell netted twice in the first half for the visitors and their tally was boosted later on by goals scored after 67 and 77 minutes by Anthony Moran and Darren Naylor. Only three minutes remained when Graeme Hudspith got Stocksfield off the mark with his header from Anthony MacDonald’s cross.
Cramlington Town claimed their first home win by beating neighbours Ashington Colliers 2-1 and completed a league double in the process. Two early goals both put away by Andrew Carr put Cramlington in charge and he scored his first after only six minutes after racing onto a through ball from Kevin Long. And in the 20th minute he netted again with a fine header from David Atkinson’s cross. Straight after the interval Glen Taylor reduced the deficit for the Colliers and Cramlington had to defend well to protect their slight advantage.

Alnwick Town’s 2-2 draw with visitors Killingworth extended an unbeaten run to six games. Killy had Craig Harley and Kevin Westphal on target to give them a clear lead but Alnwick hit back after the break through Ben Keenan and Mark Cockburn.

DIVISION ONE – URWIN HAT-TRICK KEEPS LEADERS ON COURSE
With a game in hand, Amble United are only four points behind current leaders Gateshead Rutherford in the First Division. The Seasiders, who have won six of seven home games to date, kept the pressure on their rivals by beating struggling visitors Seaton Burn 4-0. Brad Wake and Ron Warwick were on target in the opening half with later goals added by Brent Aisbitt and Greg Dance who scored from the spot in the 59th minute.

Amble had been hoping that Rutherford might slip up against in-form visitors Cullercoats but the Gateshead outfit won 3-2 in a thriller to retain their unbeaten home record. In a see-saw encounter leading scorer Kevin Urwin scored all three goals for the league leaders with his vital third coming after 86 minutes. Ben Gardner and Dave Fairless scored for Cullercoats who saw Craig Deighton’s penalty saved before having a player sent off ten minutes from time.

Northbank had picked up their first league points on the previous Saturday but were brought back down to earth quickly and were hammered 4-0 at home by Whitley Bay A. And Newcastle East End suffered a fifth successive home defeat, going down 6-2 against South Shields United. Goals by Anthony Johnson and Anthony Studholme counted for nothing in the end for the Eastenders. South Shields easily secured their fourth away win on the trot with goals supplied by Gary Spottiswood (2), Jack Lawton (2), Aaron Kah and substitute Scott Graham (penalty).

The First Division hopefuls making progress in the League Cup were Chopwell Officials, Gosforth Bohemians, Hebburn Reyrolle and Wallington. Chopwell beat cup hosts Forest Hall 2-0 while Gosforth Bohemians earned their second round ticket by beating Wideopen & District by the same score at Benson Park. Their scorers were Harry Tulip and Sean Quinn.

Down on Teesside there was a 4-1 victory for Hebburn Reyrolle to show Peterlee Town the exit door. Paul Callan got the Newtowners off the mark but they performed poorly and were never really in the hunt. Simon Jacob bagged two of the Reyrolle goals and strikes by Craig Malley and Alan Pegram completed their tally.

DIVISION TWO – AMBLE OPEN UP GAP AT THE TOP
Because of second round ties in the League Cup only two Second Division games were scheduled and in one of these Amble strengthened their hand in pole position. Their 4-0 home win against Willington Quay Saints took them three points clear of nearest rivals Wideopen & District. In what was Amble’s fifth win on the trot they had regular marksman Wyn Fremlin completing a hat-trick before Stu Marshall completed their tally. Unhappily the winners’ hero Fremlin had to be taken to hospital after sustaining a leg injury in the second half.

In the only other Second Division encounter Cramlington Blue Star picked up their first home points of the campaign by beating bottom rung opponents Whitley Bay Town 3-1. Johnny Wardle’s early opener for the` Star was cancelled out after an hour by the Bay’s Greg Lake. But James Harrison netted to restore Cramlington’s advantage and with three minutes to spare their third goal was tucked away by Ross Armstrong.

The Second Division sides retaining an interest in the League Cup and progressing to the third round were Cullercoats Custom Planet, Newcastle Chemfica and Stobswood Welfare.

With home advantage, Cullercoats Custom Planet ran out comfortable 6-1 winners to end the hopes of their Second Division colleagues Newcastle BT. Nigel Morris led the way for the Planet with his hat-trick with Kieran Fitzpatrick bagging himself a brace and Tony Fawcett also found the net. BT’s single reply on an off day came from Richard Beverley.

In another all-Second Division cup clash, Newcastle Chemfica beat visitors Wallsend Town 2-1 with both of their goals claimed by Michael Crozier and Alan Errington replying for the losers who have gone off the rails recently.

Stobswood Welfare carried their impressive league form into the cup arena when they visited Swalwell. The Welfare had already beaten Swalwell 6-1 in an identical league meeting and dished out similar punishment, winning 6-0 this time. Stobswood’s Josh Hay banged in three of their goals with the rest shared by Steve Gibbard, Paul Smith and James Davison.

By Bill Gardner
In the weekend’s single Premier Division encounter, a 1-0 local derby victory away to Harraby Catholic Club took Carlisle City to within three points of current joint leaders Wark and Walker Central. City’s important winner was put away by Scott Priest with nine minutes to spare.

All the other sides in the Alliance’s top flight were involved in county cup action and while Murton were beaten 4-1 by hosts Stockton Town in the Durham FA trophy there were successes in the first round of the Northumberland FA Senior Benevolent Bowl.

Two ties went into extra time and Ashington Colliers needed the extra half hour to beat visiting neighbours Cramlington Town 3-2. Goals for Joe Moscrop and Scott Smith gave the Colliers a clear interval lead but an own goal gifted by Ashington’s Adam Ryder got Cramlington off the mark. The visitors then levelled through Jordan Watson, only for Marc Richardson to restore the Colliers’ le ads at the end of the first extra period.

Cup holders Blyth Town also needed extra time to record a 6-4 victory in a great cup tie against Whitley Bay A at Hillheads. After 90 minutes it was all square at 2-2 but Blyth progressed with goals supplied by man-of-the-match Danny Beresford (2), Tom Haigh, Mark Waugh, Adam Gladwin and Chris Lisle. The Bay’s goals were shared by Ian Lee, Dean Porter, Gavin Hattrick and Mark Waite. And after this determined and skilful performance by Blyth few would bet against them retaining the Senior Bowl even in the light of this season’s stiffer competition.

Wark sailed into the second round by beating visitors Shankhouse 4-0 and after having Tony Lancaster, Phil Thompson and John Hamilton on target in the first half their tally was completed after the interval by Matthew MacLoughlin.

Alnwick Town claimed an impressive 3-0 verdict at home to Walker Central. Scott McMullen opened Alnwick’s account within two minutes of the start and after 65 minutes Ben Keenan doubled their lead. In the 85th minute the Town’s third goal was supplied by Richard Brown.

Two teams – Killingworth Sporting and Stocksfield – completed league and cup doubles with their respective and identical 2-1 victories in the Bowl’s first round. Killingworth’s visitors Ponteland United had Liam McIvor finding the net to end 75 minutes of stalemate but United were hit by a double whammy late in the game as Killy emerged as 2-1 victors. To open the scoring Pont’s hard-working midfielder Joe Dawson passed to Billy Holden and when he transferred the ball to McIvor he went round home keeper Aiden Ames to score.

Killingworth made a double substitution for the final quarter hour and the move paid off. With five minutes to go a right wing cross was palmed into the air by Pont keeper Michael Havelock and home striker Frank Di Pietro fired home the loose ball. Then, only two minutes later Killingworth stole a winner when Havelock was beaten again, this time by substitute Jorge Bollado’s volley. Understandably Pont were deflated at the final whistle but credit was due to Killy for their never-say-die attitude and their late flourish. 

Stocksfield were presented with an own goal opener by visitors Newcastle University when a Students’ defender turned Patrick Finnerty’s hard-driven flag kick into his own net. The University’s Edwin Tizard equalised soon after the change-over but Stocksfield wrapped up the tie midway through the second half. A quickly-taken throw-in by Anthony Dowson released Wayne Stewart who was able to pick his spot only seconds after coming on as a substitute for the Tyne valley outfit.

Ben Gardner (2) and Craig Deighton were the Cullercoats marksmen in the Seasiders’ 3-2 home win against Heddon and Heaton Stannington made progress by beating Seaton Delaval 2-1 at Wheatridge Park. Lawrence McKenna’s opener for Heaton was cancelled out by Delaval’s Stephen Howes but Kevin Carr scored a vital second goal for the visitors before the break.

DIVISION ONE – MORPETH THROW THEIR HAT INTO THE RING
Third-placed Amble United with a game in hand, pepped up their challenge in the First Division with a 3-1 win away to mid-table opponents South Shields United. Greg Dance opened the scoring for Amble with an absolute screamer midway through the first half. Shortly after the break Kyle Yorston got Shields back on terms but their visitors’ lead was restored by Ross Gair and with three minutes to go Amble’s third goal was claimed by regular marksman Darren Riddell.

There’s little doubt that Morpeth Sporting Club will figure prominently in this season’s race for the First Division title. They made it seven wins on the trot by beating lowly Seaton Burn 4-1 with goals shared by Lee Donnelly, Micky Hanlon, Mike Dixon and Scott Pocklington with the Burn’s single reply coming from Stu Taylor.

Gateshead Rutherford have won five and drawn one of their last six games and stayed in pole position after their 4-1 victory away to Newcastle East End. Lee Chapman was a lone marksman for the Eastenders who have now lost four home games on the trot but this result was no reflection of the play. The Rutherford scorers were Aaron Sheriff, David Loughlin, Andrew Reay and Craig Horsfall but three of their goals were put away inside the last ten minutes.

In second place Percy Main are just three points short of Rutherford’s total and, like Amble United, they have a useful game in hand. The Villagers were rather fortunate to beat hosts Gosforth Bohemians 1-0 to extend and unbeaten run to eight games. The Bohs had their central defender sent off only a minute after the kick off. It still took Percy Main another 73 minutes to open the scoring through Dean Morgan whose goal turned out to be vital. At that point they were playing against nine men after Bohemians’ striker Danny Sherwood also received his marching orders.

At the tenth attempt, Northbank finally picked up their first league points from their 3-2 win against visitors Berwick United who are still pointless away from home. Two first half strikes, both by Sergio Royo, put the Cumbrians in charge and Neal Thorley scored their third goal. Chris Falconer and Paul Richardson hit back for Berwick but they couldn’t find an equaliser and are now propping up the table.

Peterlee Town are also making a bid for promotion this time and have won four of their last five games, culminating with a 4-1 victory at home to Wallington who had been enjoying a successful run themselves. Paul Callan’s early opener for the Newtowners was cancelled out by Wallington’s Brad Smith before the break. Callan netted again to restore Peterlee’s lead and went on to complete his hat-trick after his colleague Jack Turner scored a third goal for the home side.

Meanwhile, Hebburn Reyrolle and Chopwell Officials both passed preliminary round tests in the Durham FA Trophy. Chopwell hammered cup visitors Durham Garden House 6-1 and Simon Jacob (2) and Ray Oshin netted for Hebburn in their 3-0 home win against Hartlepool St Francis Under-21’s.

DIVISION TWO – HOME WINS FOR JOINT LEADERS
Bolstered by a couple of games in hand, Amble are in top spot in the Second Division and sharing the same points total with nearest rivals Wideopen & District. Both teams made home advantage count to secure maximum points as they continued to set a hot pace.

Wyn Fremlin’s two goals for Amble included a second half penalty and their other scorers were Adam Shanks and Stu Marshall. Chemfica replied through Anthony Bruce and Dean Calvert but were always chasing the game and are still seeking their first point away from home.

Wideopen, just edged out of top spot by Amble on the basis of goal difference, conceded another three goals but still managed to beat visitors Newcastle BT 4-3. Martin Roper turned out to be a hat-trick hero for the winners whose other scorer in the 90th minute was famously-named new signing Niall Quinn. BT were unlucky to lose after goals by Greg Palmer, Darren Whitfield and Colin Galbraith had promised a share of the spoils.

The two current leaders have opened up a four-point gap at the top and third-placed North Shields Athletic were knocked back. They became the latest victims of in-form hosts Stobswood Welfare and were beaten 5-2. The Welfare clocked up their sixth successive league win with goals supplied by Steve Gibbard (2), Matt Graham, Josh Hay and Mike Hogg with James Baker and Bryan Murray replying for their opponents.

Wallsend Boys Club are still just on the fringes of the promotion race but have lost only once in six recent games and featured in a creditable 1-1 draw away to Willington Quay Saints. The Saints, who had won their last four games on home turf, were fired into a 50th minute lead by Mark Henderson but after 72 minutes substitute Josh Walsh restored parity for the Boys Club.

Forest Hall still have a lot to do if they are to revive their promotion hopes but they’re still unbeaten at home after earning a 3-1 verdict against visitors Wallsend Town. The Hall’s Mark Knights put the ball into his own net to give Wallsend a boost but he was saved embarrassment by the goal-scoring exploits of his colleagues Dean Smith, Jamie Kennedy and Ryan Anderson.

Hexham beat bottom rung visitors Tynemouth United 2-0 but had to wait for around eighty minutes for substitute Darren Dobson’s brace which settled the issue in their favour. And, after failing to fulfil the previous Saturday’s fixture, Whitley Bay Town returned to action but were beaten 4-1 at home by Swalwell. Stuart Rook and Craig Robinson bagged two goals each for the winners with Whitley’s single reply scored by Luke Jamieson-Yip.

In a clash featuring two new clubs at the wrong end of the Second Division table, Cullercoats Custom Planet ended a seven-match losing run by beating hosts Cramlington Blue Star 3-1. James Fitzpatrick (2) and Liam Graham found the net for the Planet with Jamie Evans replying for a Blue Star side still waiting for their first point at home.

By Bill Gardner
The top three sides in the Premier Division all drew and there is still no clear leader with Wark and Walker Central sharing pole position with almost identical records.

After winning six games on the trot, Wark were restricted to a 1-1 stalemate by visitors Ponteland United. With the wind behind them in the first half Wark had the majority of the play and showed why they are one of the leagues front runners. Pont’s Michael Havelock was the busier of the two keepers, tipping over a cross from Matt MacLoughlin but with new signing Anzevui marshalling the defence and Liam McIvor and Craig Brown working hard in midfield United kept the home side at bay and it was still 0-0 at half time.

Havelock was in action again after the break, tipping over a drive from Mark Elliott but was beaten on 60 minutes by Marc Nixon's 30-yard free kick low down to his right. Despite this set-back Pont stuck to their task with Brown and Glenn Ford bravely charging down Phil Thompson’s drive as Wark aimed to double their lead.
Richard Kent was working tirelessly on the visitors’ right flank but Wark’s defenders were proving too strong and physical for Billy Holden when the crosses came in.

Nevertheless, Ponteland’s nippy striker got his reward with five minutes to go. Home keeper Sagar failed to collect Max Turner's cross when under pressure from McIvor and Holden was on hand to poke the ball over the line.

It was always going to be tough for Walker Central at home to Harraby Catholic Club and they also had to be content with a 1-1 draw. Only beaten once in this campaign, the Central were given the lead by Liam Mulligan straight after half time. The Cumbrians had Marc Shiel claiming their leveller after 67 minutes and their games in hand will make them increasingly threatening.

Carlisle City in third place have remained unbeaten in their last four matches away from home and shared four goals with their latest hosts Blyth Town. Craig Robinson opened the scoring for Blyth midway through the first half but there was a fairly quick reply from City’s Steve Bell. With five minutes to go Chris Major scored what seemed to be Carlisle’s winner but in the dying seconds Mark Waugh’s successful spot kick salvaged a point for the Town.

With the teams above them all spilling points, fourth-placed Heaton Stannington improved their standing and another good performance at Grounsell Park earned them a 4-1 verdict against strugglers Heddon. Thanks to strikes by Brian Dodsworth (2), Lawrence McKenna and Kevin Carr, Heaton were four goals to the good after 55 minutes and Heddon’s later consolation goal was put away by David Edwardson. And Heddon are still in trouble after suffering their eighth defeat on the trot in the Premier Division.

Two in-form sides met at St James’ Park where hosts Alnwick Town won 4-1 against Cramlington Town to keep themselves in the top half of the table. Early goals for Ben Keenan and Tony Brown gave Alnwick a flying start and after Jordan Watson hit back for the visitors their two-goal advantage was restored before the break by Tom Vickers. In the final minute Dale Kennedy scored a fourth for the home side who have remained unbeaten in their last five outings.

Stocksfield have won two and drawn two of their four most recent league games after beating Seaton Delaval 2-1 at Wheatridge Park. A goal in each half for Josh Brooks and Phil Murray set the visitors up for the kill. Carl Bennington punished an error by Stocksfield keeper Peter Adnitt to get Delaval off the mark but that was their last shout.

After five games, late starters Newcastle University secured their first league point with a goal-less draw against Murton at Cochrane Park and Murton are yet to win away from home. Meanwhile the strength of the wind at Northburn caused Shankhouse’s home game against Killingworth Sporting to be called off.

DIVISION ONE – RUTHERFORD STUNG BY SEATON BURN
First Division leaders Gateshead Rutherford had their hundred percent home record terminated by Seaton Burn who picked up their first away point from their 1-1 draw at Lobley Hill. Despite being at the bottom end of the table the Burn posed some problems for their high-ranking hosts and after an hour were fired in front by Dave Hewitt. Rutherford had three goals disallowed for offside but with nine minutes to go Craig Horsfall’s leveller saved some of their dignity.

Now in fourth spot, Whitley Bay A had to be content with a 3-3 draw with Hebburn Reyrolle at Hillheads. The Bay’s goals were shared by Dean Porter, Craig Smith and Ian Lee with his first of the season. Marc Hare and Craig Malley hit back for Hebburn who had a last minute equaliser put away by Marc Lockwell.

South Shields United became the latest tormentors of Northbank who are on the bottom rung and still waiting for their first point. Over in Carlisle, South shields emerged as 2-01 victors after having Phil Elund and Phil Lawton on target in the first half. Northbank worked hard to get back in the game but their only reward was a single strike by Stuart McGarva in the 77th minute.

Cullercoats are gradually recovering last season’s fine form and claimed their first home win at the expense of a Gosforth Bohemians side which has lost its way in recent games. For the first time this term the Bohs failed to get a name on the score sheet and were beaten 1-0. Straight after the interval Rob Watson secured the points for Cullercoats and his fierce thirty-yard drive was a worthy match-winner.

Amble United’s top of the table clash with visitors Morpeth Sporting Club was called off due to the gale force wind at the coast but Peterlee Town continued their improved run away from home and won 3-1 at Chopwell to climb into a mid-table slot. Two of the Newtowners’ goals were scored by Damian Gee with Nathan Liddell also finding the net. Andrew Smith was a lone marksman for Chopwell who have picked up only a single point from their last four games.

DIVISION TWO – SINGLE GOAL STUNS NORTH SHIELDS
In the Second Division the game between fourth-placed Stobswood Welfare and visitors Whitley Bay Town was a non-starter due to Whitley’s inability to field a team. And the strong winds caused the postponement of Wallsend Boys Club’s home game against Hexham.

With Northumberland Minor Cup ties reducing the Second Division programme even further only two league games went ahead and an impressive Newcastle Chemfica outfit beat third-placed visitors North Shields Athletic 1-0. After five straight wins North Shields were sunk by a 75th minute strike by Chemfica’s Mick Crozier.

In the only other Second Division encounter hosts Newcastle BT shared the spoils with Cramlington Blue Star. The result was a 2-2 draw with the Blue Star scoring first and last through Jonathan Wardle and James Harrison. In the interim BT’s marksmen were Sean Blakey and Colin Galbraith.

Swalwell took a break from league duty but made an early exit from the Durham Minor Cup, beaten 4-2 by cup hosts Evenwood White Swan despite having Colin Beestone and Joe Adams on target.

NORTHUMBERLAND MINOR CUP – AMBLE STROLL THROUGH
Of the nine Northern Alliance teams involved in the first round of the Ideal Stelrad Northumberland Minor Cup, there were three early fallers but the remaining six were able to make progress. Cullercoats Custom Planet, Newcastle East End and Willington Quay Saints were all ushered through the exit door.

The Planet were beaten 3-0 at home by league colleagues Berwick United whose goals were shared by Leigh Walker, Simon Hargreaves and Phil Lee. And Newcastle East End suffered severe disappointment away to Newcastle Chemfica Reserves. Dieu Lomana’s goal for the East Enders made it 1-1 after extra time but they were beaten 3-2 in the penalty shoot-out.

Willington Quay Saints bowed out and although Mark Henderson and Gareth Pugh found the net they lost 3-2 away to cup holders Blakelaw Crofters Lodge.
Among the teams clearing the first hurdle, Amble and Wideopen & District – the two sides currently heading the Second Division table in the Alliance – were the most convincing first round winners in the Minor Cup.

In Amble’s 9-2 home victory against Gosforth Bohemians A, both John Charlton and Wyn Fremlin weighed in with hat-tricks. Stu Marshall bagged himself a brace and the Amble tally was topped up by Adam Shanks.

Wideopen were also at home and hammered cup opponents North Shields Town 6-0. Martin Roper banged in four of the goals and the other two were supplied by his colleague Liam Jubb.

Goals for Jamie Gilbert and Danny Carr earned Forest Hall their 2-0 cup passport when they visited Lowick United and Percy Main also won away from home, beating Ashington BB Athletic 4-3. First half Percy Main goals for Malcolm Morien, Callum Colbeck and Chris Locke were wiped out by three Ashington replies after the break. There was relief all round for the Villagers when Mick Haley edged them in front again with barely a minute to spare with his goal direct from a corner kick..

Last season’s Minor Cup finalists Wallsend Town were 3-2 first round winners at home to Cullercoats Reserves, making hard work of a victory assured by goals supplied by Kevin Smith, Stephen Dodd and Tony Senagoga.

Another thirteen Northern Alliance hopefuls who received byes will be joining the fray in the Minor Cup’s second round with the draw yet to be announced. The late starters are Amble United, Cramlington Blue Star, Gosforth Bohemians, Hexham, Morpeth Sporting Club, Newcastle British Telecom, Newcastle Chemfica, North Shields Athletic, Seaton Burn, Tynemouth United, Wallington, Wallsend Boys Club and Whitley Bay Town.

By Bill Gardner
Still with no league win to their credit, Heddon crossed into Cumbria to take on Harraby Catholic but there was no change in fortune and they were beaten 3-2.

Harraby were given a sixth minute lead when Jordan Coulthard’s cross was headed into the goalmouth by Steve Archibald for Rob Bainbridge to poke the ball over the line. The home side kept up the pressure and from James Earl’s flag kick Coulthard headed home at the back post to double their lead.

The Cumbrians however allowed Heddon to take control and the visitors were unlucky to have a penalty appeal turned down following a foul on John Dunn. But in the 40th Andrew Hall got Heddon off the mark with his free kick.

After the break Heddon got themselves back on terms and when John Dunn latched on to a long clearance he ran clear to go round Harraby’s debutant keeper Williams and roll the ball into the net.

Harraby woke up to the growing threat and Andrew Douglas restored their lead after 76 minutes. Heddon threw everybody forward in the last five minutes but although Harraby’s Coulthard was sent off for a ‘professional foul’ the visitors couldn’t save the game.

Ponteland United faced up to Alnwick Town at the Leisure Centre and had to settle for a 3-3 draw.

Within a minute Pont were in front when Billy Holden, put through by Liam McIvor, easily beat Town keeper Bryan Brooks. United then went on to waste a host of opportunities but managed to double their lead after 25 minutes when McIvor scored his first goal of the season.

Only five minutes later Ponteland were three goals up and when Max Turner looped in a cross from the left the ball sailed over the keeper into the net. The points should have been assured for United at this stage. Instead their lead was reduced before the break and Alnwick full back Danny Lowes cut in to beat Michael Havelock with his low drive.

This goal lifted Alnwick’s spirits and Tony Brown scored with his header to reduce the deficit even further. And Pont finally paid for their own woeful lack of finishing when their visitors restored parity midway through the second half with Tom Vickers scoring to ensure that the spoils were shared.

Joint leaders Wark and Walker Central have a clear six-point lead at the head of the Premier Division with Wark just shading it on goal difference. Both teams won again and Wark beat hosts Ashington Colliers 4-0 with goals by Marc Nixon (2), Matt MacLoughlin and Tony Lancaster to stay in pole position.

Walker Central have a hundred percent record away from home and extended it by beating Shankhouse 4-2. Andrew Stokes gave Walker an interval lead which was increased by David Dormand as he bagged a second half brace. In a late flurry John Robson scored the Central’s fourth goal and Craig Cook and Anthony Moran netted for Shankhouse but it was all over for the home side.

Carlisle City are tucked in behind the two current pace-setters and after losing two successive home games they turned the corner by beating visitors Seaton Delaval 2-0 with goals scored by Graeme Lupton and Steve Bell.

Heaton Stannington and Killingworth Sporting are sharing fourth spot after both picked up maximum points but they still have a lot to do to catch up with the teams at the top. Heaton secured a 3-1 victory against nearest neighbours Newcastle University at Cochrane Park. Martin Hill opened the scoring for the Students but Heaton replied through Iain Irvin and Lawrence McKenna before the break and their third goal was put away by Gary Yates.

Killingworth made it four home wins out of five by beating Blyth Town 2-1 but they were rather fortunate. Danny Beresford fired Blyth into a half hour lead that survived until the 83rd minute. Michael Bell then levelled for Killy before their 89th minute winner was claimed by Kevin Westphal.

Cramlington Town won 2-0 at Murton with a goal in each half supplied by Andrew Carr (penalty) and Jordan Watson. And In their first round tie in the Kicks Leisure League Cup away to Second Division outfit Stobswood Welfare, Stocksfield were beaten 2-1 with both of the Welfare’s goals claimed by Kerry Shotton. Phil Murray had given the Premier Division side the lead when his cross-cum-shot was diverted into the net off a Stobswood defender.

DIVISION ONE – URWIN SHATTERS AMBLE UNITED HOPES
Amble United came off second best in their top of the table tussle with hosts Gateshead Rutherford in the First Division and slipped down into third place after losing 4-1. Lee Common managed to cancel out Kevin Urwin’s early opener for the Gateshead outfit but Urwin’s second goal restored the home side’s lead before the interval. Amble had a brief bright spell after the changeover but faded later on and Rutherford hot-shot Urwin helped himself to two more goals including a penalty.
While Rutherford took over at the top, Percy Main leapfrogged over Amble into second place – retaining their unbeaten home record by beating bottom rung visitors Northbank 2-0. This should have been an easy game for the Villagers against the still pointless Cumbrians but it wasn’t. They had to wait until the 55th minute for their opener scored by Jonathan McEnaney with his header from Shaun Wilkinson’s perfect cross going through the arms of despairing Northbank keeper Jack Twentyman. The points weren’t really secured until stoppage time when player-manager Jason Ritchie scored from the spot after Wilkinson was felled in the box.

Morpeth Sporting Club have emerged as the Division One dark horses this season and winning six games in a row has taken them up into fourth place, only three points behind Amble United. They continued their progress with a 2-1 victory away to Hebburn Reyrolle after being presented with an early own goal opener by the Hebburn keeper. Ray Oshin levelled on the hour for Reyrolle but with six minutes to go Richard Latimer weighed in with Morpeth’s winner.

Wallington and Whitley Bay A have been inching their way up the table and they both recorded convincing victories to sustain their challenge. Wallington beat lowly Seaton Burn 4-0 at Scots Gap, inflicting a sixth successive defeat on their visitors. The goals were shared by Peter Southern, Nat Williamson, Michael Calder and Jack Palmer.

After a spell of inconsistency, Whitley Bay A are looking strong again and a 4-1 win away to a decent Gosforth Bohemians side could be an important turning point. Craig Smith headed home from a corner kick to give the Bay a slender interval lead. It was doubled by Mark Waite before Glen Robson bagged a brace to complete the winners’ tally. Only five minutes remained when Ben Guy claimed a consolation goal for the Bohs.

After losing their last two home games South Shields United were happy to draw 2-2 with Chopwell Officials and had to come from behind twice to earn a point. Their first reply was down to an own goal and their second and very late equaliser was put away by Mike Armstrong.

Newcastle East End lost 2-0 at home to Peterlee Town whose marksmen were Nathan Liddell and Hayden Pace but Cullercoats extended their recent unbeaten run to five games by winning 4-0 away to Berwick United. Berwick have won only one of their nine league games so far and were sunk in this one by Cullercoats goals scored by Craig Deighton (2), Alex Burnett and Ben Gardner.

DIVISION TWO – LATE WINNER HOISTS AMBLE TO THE TOP
Amble have taken over from Wideopen & District as the new leaders in the Second Division, albeit on goal difference but Amble have played a game less than their main rivals. Pole position was achieved by the Amble lads as they ended Wallsend Boys Club’s unbeaten record away from home but it was a close thing. The single goal settling the issue in the home side’s favour was claimed by Adam Shanks with the last kick of the match.

Previous pace-setters Wideopen are showing signs of slipping and were soundly beaten 3-0 by up-and-coming hosts North Shields Athletic. Unbeaten in seven home games to date, the Shieldsmen are now occupying a threatening third spot and their latest victory was confirmed with strikes by Graham Williams (2) and Matt Donkin.
Up-and-down form has adversely affected Wallsend Town’s efforts to get among the leaders and they suffered another blow by losing 2-1 at home to Newcastle BT. Ryan Arnott opened the scoring for Wallsend but on the stroke of half time Carl Aziz levelled for the visitors. And midway through the second half BT’s winner was scored by Greg Palmer.

Newcastle Chemfica have been impressive on their home patch so far this term and visitors Hexham, beaten 2-1, were their latest victims. Hexham are yet to win on their travels and a goal for Jamie McNamee wasn’t enough in this encounter. Chemfica picked up the points with replies from Dean Calvert and Mike Crozier to install themselves in a respectable mid-table slot.

Forest Hall got a long-awaited breakthrough and after drawing three successive games they claimed their first away win. The Hall did the trick by beating hosts Cramlington Blue Star 2-1 but left it late to clinch the points. Kevin Baldwin gave Forest Hall a 40th minute opener but Chris Bond’s reply in 80 minutes for the Star looked likely to earn them their first home point. It wasn’t to be however and Baldwin bagged his telling second goal in the dying seconds.

Willington Quay Saints had an 81st minute strike by Noel Clynch to thank for earning them a 1-0 verdict at home to Cullercoats Custom Planet. But the weekend’s top result was Tynemouth United’s 3-2 home win against Whitley Bay Town. These were the first points of the campaign for the Tynemouth lads who had Chris Grieves (2) and Paul Nichol on target while Luke Jamieson-Yip and Paul Hindmarch replied in vain for Whitley.

By Bill Gardner
Harraby Catholic Club were away to Blyth Town in a fixture that has previously proved awkward for the Cumbrians in recent seasons and they were beaten 4-2 on this occasion. There was an hour’s deadlock before Blyth opened the scoring and when Danny Beresford was brought down by Harraby’s Jordan Coulthard, Mark Waugh scored from the spot. And the Town’s lead was doubled after 74 minutes when a defensive error was punished by home team substitute Graham Heath.

Harraby responded and Dan Wordsworth reduced the arrears when James Earl’s flag kick gave him the chance to head home from close range. Blyth however had their two-goal advantage restored and Danny Beresford netted with the aid of a helpful deflection. Mike Swift hit back again for Harraby and when Earl’s free kick came back off the bar, he hammered the ball in from the rebound. But Blyth Town still had the last word and the unmarked Heath bagged his second goal of the game.

Wark and Walker Central swapped places on the basis of goal difference at the head of the Premier Division table and Wark’s 3-2 home win against Killingworth Sporting installed them in pole position. Goal-a-game striker Marc Nixon bagged two of Wark’s goals to take his tally to fifteen and the other scorer for the winners was Jamie Peel. Killy’s replies came from Nick Hindhaugh and Liam Callaghan.

Walker Central suffered their first defeat as their hopes for an eighth win on the trot were scuppered by visitors Ashington Colliers. A late show by the Colliers earned them a 4-2 victory. After Glen Taylor gave Ashington an interval lead the Central hit back with two quick second half strikes by Steve Forster and David Dormand. But inside the last fifteen minutes John Rees, Joe Moscrop and Anthony Wright netted for the visitors to wrap up the points.

Carlisle City are in third spot and ended their recent lean spell with a 3-0 success at Murton.

Experienced striker Graeme Lupton’s return to City has given them a cutting edge and he bagged a goal in each half to put the Cumbrians in charge. Stuart Hill also found the net in the 75th minute to complete the scoring.

With Killingworth losing at Wark, Heaton Stannington stayed in joint fourth place despite losing 5-4 to Seaton Delaval in a real thriller at Wheatridge Park. Delaval looked set for a more comfortable win when they had Carl Begbie, Stephen Howes and Nick Gray on target inside the first fifteen minutes. Heaton hit back through Adam Donaghey (penalty) and Kevin Carr before the break to signal a nail-biting second half. Although Edmore Murau and Lawrence McKenna added to the visitors’ tally it was Delaval who picked up the points when Jeff Fuller bagged himself a vital brace.

Cramlington Town are still waiting for their first home win after drawing 3-3 with Stocksfield. The Town were fired in front midway through the opening half by David Atkinson as he turned in Graham Hogg’s low cross. Stocksfield levelled just before the interval when Wayne Stewart scored from a chance set up by Phil Murray.

Iain Downie restored Cramlington’s lead with a fine header from Graham Hogg’s corner kick and almost immediately Andrew Carr slotted in a third goal for the hosts after racing onto Jordan Watson’s through ball. With only three minutes remaining Stocksfield seemed to be down and out but they were rescued by a late brace claimed by Phil Murray. He bagged his first with a telling touch to Wayne Stewart’s hard-driven cross and a headed pass by Cairns Kettles gave him the opportunity for his vital second, hooked in from barely six yards out.

Meanwhile, in a preliminary round tie in the Kicks Leisure Challenge Cup, Alnwick Town hammered visitors Newcastle University 7-0 to earn themselves a future first round trip to Carlisle City. And at Hillheads a Northern Alliance side was beaten 3-2 by the Liverpool County Premier League in the first round of the FA Carlsberg National League System Cup. The Alliance had Anthony Moran and Andrew Armstrong (penalty) on target but were always second best top the Liverpudlians whose goals were scored by James Croxton, Chris Lester and Francis McIntosh.

DIVISION ONE – HORSFALL IS RUTHERFORD HERO
Amble United are in pole position in the First Division, just ahead of Gateshead Rutherford on goal difference, and the two pace-setters won again as they continued to set a challenging pace.

The Amble lads have won seven of their eight games to date and were happy to beat visitors Whitley Bay A 1-0. The narrowness of the margin didn’t bother United as the Bay failed to get a name on the score sheet for the first time this season. Instead they were sunk by Martin Humble’s 80th minute winner for the home side.

Gateshead Rutherford won much more emphatically and easily retained their hundred percent home record by hammering lowly visitors Berwick United 7-0. Craig Horsfall, a new signing from Heddon, gave Rutherford the lead straight from the kick off and he struck again after only seven minutes. With Berwick always looking vulnerable at the back Horsfall bagged another two goals to take his personal tally to four and the other Gateshead marksmen were Kevin Urwin (2) and Joe Hindmarch.

Both Percy Main and Gosforth Bohemians are in contention at the top end of the table but they had differing fortunes last weekend. While the Main stayed on course there was an upset for the Bohs who lost 3-2 away to up-and-coming Morpeth Sporting Club. Morpeth’s scorers to gain their fifth successive league win were Chris Tate (2) and Richard Latimer while the Gosforth replies came from Harry Tulip and Matthew Owens.

Percy Main picked up another three useful points by beating hosts Seaton Burn 3-1 and ex-Whitley Bay striker Malcolm Morien gave them an interval lead with a venomous strike from outside the area.

Six minutes into the second half Nicky Hara got the Burn back on terms but his goal only served to stir up the visitors.

Ian Lee, another ex-Whitley Bay stalwart, put the Villagers in front again, marking his return to his old club with a clever finish as he lobbed the ball over the home keeper. And for good measure the Main added a third goal to their tally with Steven Shadforth finding the bottom corner of the net when Callum Colback’s effort was blocked.

Wallington are showing signs of improving and a 2-1 victory at Chopwell hoisted them into the top half of the table. Wallington’s Peter Southern and Dave Featherstone had the ball in the net before Andrew Smith got Chopwell off the mark.

Cullercoats however still haven’t recaptured last season’s form and despite having Tom McGuinness, Craig Deighton and Stewart Wright finding the net they were restricted to a 3-3 draw at home to Hebburn Reyrolle.

Newcastle East End made their trip into Cumbria worthwhile by beating Northbank 3-0 and leaving their hosts still seeking their first league point. After suffering three straight defeats themselves the East Enders turned the corner and picked up maximum points thanks to strikes by Sean Graham (2) and Gary Dixon.

Newly-promoted South Shields United were encouraged by their 3-1 win away to freshly-relegated Peterlee Town who had two players sent off. Mark Davies (2) and David Surrey scored for Shields with the Newtowners’ single reply coming from Elliott McQuaid.

DIVISION TWO – STOBSWOOD STUN LEADERS
Wideopen & District are still heading the Second Division table, three points clear of nearest rivals Amble who have a game in hand at their disposal. But the Wideopen lads surrendered their hundred percent record and were beaten 2-0 at home by an impressive Stobswood Welfare outfit. Now in fourth place, the Welfare are enjoying a great run and goals for Paul Smith and Chris Graham put three more points in the bag.

Amble have won seven of their eight games so far and made visitors Cullercoats Custom Planet their latest victims. The Planet have fallen out of orbit and their 4-1 defeat was their sixth successive setback with their only goal supplied by Neil Turner. David Shepherd, Adam Shanks, Wyn Fremlin and Craig Kielty shared Amble’s goals in what was a comfortable victory.

In third place at the moment, North Shields Athletic are set to challenge the teams above them and a 3-2 home win against Newcastle BT was another morale-booster. Goals supplied by Dave McDonald, Gary Farrage and Michael Hall just edged it for the Shieldsmen and cancelled out the strikes of Richard Beverley and Simon Mattock for the visitors.

Neighbours Wallsend Boys Club and Wallsend Town both improved their league positions with identical 1-0 victories. A very youthful Boys Club outfit with two teenagers at the heart of their defence had Rob Nolan scoring on the quarter hour to beat Newcastle Chemfica whose travel woes continued. And Ryan Arnott’s first half goal for hosts Wallsend Town was enough to see off Hexham in an entertaining game.

Deficiencies in the playing surface prompted the referee to cancel Whitley Bay Town’s home game against Cramlington Blue Star while Forest Hall featured in a 3-3 thriller with visitors Swalwell who were happy to see the end of a three-match losing streak. Forest Hall’s goals were supplied by Kevin Baldwin, Jamie Gilbert and Mike Sandberg with Swalwell’s replies shared by Jonathan Graham, Chris Smith and Andrew Scott.

Willington Quay Saints are unbeaten in their last four outings and their 4-1 home win against Tynemouth United extended the promising sequence. Strikes by Glen Gallon, David Gibson and Colin Ancrum had the Saints cruising at the start of the second half. Chris Grieves got Tynemouth off the mark but even after earlier scorer Gallon was red-carded, Willington were still superior and had substitute Gareth Pugh completing their tally.

By Bill Gardner
After suffering three straight home defeats Ponteland United picked up their first points at the Leisure Centre Ground and a 3-2 victory against Blyth Town hoisted Jarrod Suddick’s side into a mid-table slot. Blyth however were most impressive in the early exchanges and a goal in each half for Chris Lisle and Tom Haigh had them apparently cruising. The Town wasted their two-goal advantage however and conceded three to their hosts inside the last twenty minutes. Gavin Wood opened Ponteland’s account and Richard Kent bagged their equaliser five minutes later. Then, just before the final whistle Blyth were deprived of any reward when Wood scored his second and winning goal.

Heddon, only two points better off than Newcastle University at the foot of the Premier Division table, have failed to win in their eight starts so far and lost their sixth game on the trot. Against unbeaten league leaders Walker Central at Bullocksteads the Heddon lads were on the wrong end of a 5-1 score-line. Although they had David Brunsden cancelling out Paul Stoneman’s early opener for the Central this was their last shout. Liam Mulligan’s successful spot kick restored Walker’s lead before half time and their third goal was put away by Paul Mills straight after the change-over. And further pressure by the visitors was further rewarded when Andrew Stokes bagged himself a brace.

Shankhouse’s six-match unbeaten run (including four draws) was ended when they visited second-placed Wark and the Tyne valley outfit ran out fairly comfortable 5-2 winners. In the first half Wark were twice given the lead, first by Lee Telfer and then by their goal-a-game striker Marc Nixon. On each occasion Shannkhouse hit back promptly, their first equaliser put away by Anthony Moran and their second by Michael Bell. But after the interval Wark ran the show and after Stuart Brown scored their third goal another two were supplied by Nixon and Phil Thompson.

Stocksfield entertained Murton in the only other Premier Division league game down for decision and a 1-1 draw ended Stocksfield’s dismal run of three defeats while giving Murton their first point away from home. Murton, managed by ex-Stocksfield player Andrew Upperton, ended 86 minutes of stalemate when Allan Curl put them in front. But within a minute the home side was back on terms when Anthony MacDonald found the net.

There were only two all-Premier Division clashes in the first round of the Kicks Leisure League Cup with Carlisle City and Heaton Stannington both making progress. Goals for Gary Yates and Russell Nelson earned Heaton a 2-0 home win against Killingworth Sporting while Carlisle beat visitors Alnwick Town 6-1 thanks to goals by Chris Major (2), Steve Bell (2), Tom Short and Graeme Lupton. Dale Kennedy claimed Alnwick’s consolation goal in the 88th minute of a one-sided encounter.

Another five first round ties involved teams from the league’s top flight facing opponents from the lower divisions and last season’s beaten finalists Harraby Catholic Club along with Seaton Delaval and Newcastle University were all successful in booking places in the second round.

Harraby hammered Second Division cup visitors Willington Quay Saints 12-0. Rob Bainbridge (4) and Marc Shiel (2) led the charge for the Cumbrians whose remaining goals were shared by James Earl, Steve Archibald, Andy Douglas, Mike Swift (penalty), Nick Routledge and Andy Roberts.

Goals supplied by Steve Howe (2), Craig Johnson (2) and Jeff Fuller gave Delaval a 5-1 win in their tie away to Newcastle East End from the First Division. And there was a slightly more modest 3-1 cup win for Newcastle University against their First Division visitors Seaton Burn. Dave Kewn (2) and Gareth Pickup were on target for the Students with Mark Braddick replying in vain for the Burn.

In addition to Alnwick Town and Killingworth Sporting, the other Premier Division fallers at the League Cup’s first hurdle were Cramlington Town and Ashington Colliers. Cramlington Town had Kevin Long and Jordan Watson on the mark in their tie away to Gosforth Bohemians but were beaten 4-2 after having three of their players sent off. And Ashington Colliers were beaten 3-1 by Second Division cup hosts Newcastle BT. Rob Beverley (2) and Greg Hamilton scored for BT before Joe Moscrop got a late goal for the Colliers.

DIVISION ONE – TAPSFIELD IS THE MAIN MAN
There were no league games played in the First Division with League Cup matches taking priority and current league leaders Amble United were beaten 1-0 by Percy Main in their tie at the latter’s Purvis Park base. An entertaining game was settled in the 76th minute as the Main’s substitute Dave Tapsfield scored their winner from Craig Ewart’s low cross.

Last season’s cup winners Cullercoats made an early exit this time. They were beaten 2-1 at Hillheads by their divisional colleagues Whitley Bay A whose match-winning marksmen were Dean Porter and Mark Waite.

In another all-First Division clash Chopwell Officials made home advantage count to beat Cumbrian opponents Northbank 2-0 thanks to strikes by Lee Best and David Fitzpatrick. And Peterlee Town won 7-1 away to Cramlington Blue Star with David Howe playing a starring role with his hat-trick. The other scorers for the Newtowners were Nathan Liddell, Paul Callan, Matt Gaffney and Hayden Pace and the Blue Star’s single reply came from Ross Armstrong.

After a goal-less opening half in their tie at Gateshead, Hebburn Reyrolle beat cup hosts Rutherford 4-1 and were unstoppable after the break. Two ex-Rutherford players – James Maccoy and Dan Matthews – scored for Reyrolle and they had Jay Telford bagging a brace. Rutherford, unable to replicate their fine league form, only managed a single reply through David Clasper.

Gosforth Bohemians beat Premier Division visitors Cramlington Town 4-2 and despite having Kevin Long and Jordan Watson on target the Town never recovered after having three of their players sent off. The Bohs took full advantage and strikes by Danny Sherwood (2), Harry Tulip and Paul Menton ensured their progress.

DIVISION TWO – ACE GIBBARD AIDS THE WELFARE
There were only three league fixtures in the Second Division and Stobswood Welfare, only beaten once this term, won 3-1 at Swalwell to move up into fourth spot. Well-travelled striker Steve Gibbard has linked up with the Welfare and found the net at Swalwell along with Paul Nesbitt and Paul Smith. Jonathan Graham replied for the losers.

Wideopen & District extended their lead at the head of the Second Division to six points and made it eight wins on the trot although plucky visitors Cullercoats Custom Planet were only narrowly beaten 2-1. Liam Graham was the Planet’s scorer but Rob MacDonald bagged both of Wideopen’s goals to maintain their hundred percent record.

Like last season, Tynemouth United are under the cosh again, with no points from their eight starts so far and resting on the bottom rung. United are leaking goals at an alarming rate and were hammered 9-1 at home by North Shields Athletic. Dominic Vasseghi claimed five of the North Shields goals with the rest supplied by Matt Donkin (2), Gary Farrage and Craig Boyle. Graham Piggott replied for Tynemouth who seem to be increasingly out of their depth at this level.

The Second Division’s heroes in the first round of the League Cup were Newcastle BT who upset the odds by deservedly beating Premier Division visitors Ashington Colliers 3-1. Following a goal-less first half the BT lads started to impress and had Rob Beverley and Greg Hamilton oin target to upset their opponents. Joe Moscrop finally got the Colliers off the mark with ten minutes to go but in the 89th minute a second goal for Beverley made sure that BT will be in the second round.

Hexham, last season’s semi-finalists in the League Cup, were halted this time at the first hurdle and beaten 2-0 by Forest Hall at Wentworth Park. Forest Hall thoroughly deserved their success with Tom Jones opening their account just before the interval and Scott Parker doubling the lead with a minute to go.

Newcastle Chemfica booked themselves a second round slot by impressively beating powerful visitors Amble 6-2. Four of their goals were tucked away by Anthony Bruce and the winning tally was completed by Alan Malloy and Martin Dixon. Wyn Fremlin replied twice for the losers.

Wallsend Town did well to beat First Division hosts South Shields United 3-2 with goals by Lee Summers, Paul McCutcheon and Ryan Arnott who scored the winner in the 80th minute. The home side’s replies had come from Mick Armstrong and Nick Payne.

Wallsend Boys Club won 3-0 away to Whitley Bay Town to go through and the pairings in the Second Round of the Kicks Leisure League Cup are now:

• Cullercoats Custom Planet v Newcastle BT;
• Forest Hall v Chopwell Officials;
• Gosforth Bohemians v Wideopen & District;
• Harraby Catholic v Berwick United;
• Murton v Blyth Town;
• Newcastle Chemfica v Wallsend Town;
• Newcastle University v Morpeth Sporting Club;
• North Shields Athletic v Ponteland United;
• Percy Main v Heddon;
• Peterlee Town v Hebburn Reyrolle;
• Swalwell v Stobswood Welfare or Stocksfield;
• Walker Central v Heaton Stannington;
• Wallington v Tynemouth United;
• Wallsend Boys Club v Seaton Delaval;
• Wark v Carlisle City;
• Whitley Bay A v Shankhouse.

By Bill Gardner
Newcastle University made their usual belated start to their season but it wasn’t a happy curtain-raiser and the Students were soundly beaten 5-0 at home by highly-placed Wark. Leading 3-0 at the interval, Wark had Marc Nixon completing a hat-trick to preserve his goal-per-game status and Tony Lancaster and Phil Thompson were their other marksmen.

Apart from the University, Heddon are the only other club yet to claim a Premier Division victory. Two drawn games have been followed by five straight defeats and Heddon’s misery was extended when they lost 2-0 to Blyth Town at Bullocksteads.

Heddon are still waiting for their first three-pointer and have followed up two drawn games with a depressing run of five defeats. They were beaten 2-0 at Bullocksteads by Blyth Town who hoisted themselves up into a mid-table slot.

After a goal-less opening half Danny Beresford scored his first goal of the new campaign for Blyth, meeting Adam Gladwin’s perfect cross and beating the home keeper from a couple of yards out. This slender lead survived despite a few Heddon onslaughts and it was doubled in the dying minutes to ensure that Blyth bagged the points. This time Beresford emerged as provider and Martin Robinson raced onto his defence-splitting through ball to slot his low drive wide of the Heddon keeper.

Cramlington Town finally secured their first league win at the seventh attempt. The Town clinched a 2-1 verdict away to Ashington Colliers and were in front after fifteen minutes as a well-delivered cross from Dave Atkinson was headed home by Kevin Long from just inside the box. This goal was cancelled out by Ashington’s Marc Pattie as he struck just before the interval but Cramlington were determined to end their miserable run and regained the lead in the 65th minute. Earlier scorer Long bagged his vital second goal and the Town’s winner when he rifled in Andrew Carr’s cross from close range.

Newly-promoted sides Killingworth Sporting and Stocksfield came face to face and Killy made home advantage count by winning 2-0. Both sides went into the game on the back of two consecutive defeats but Killingworth edged this one. They took the lead midway through the opening half when Jorge Bollado rolled the ball through to Kevin Westphal whose shot bounced to confuse visiting keeper Peter Adnitt on its way into the net. Jack Callaghan doubled Killy’s lead in the 70th minute with Bollado once again providing the ammunition.

After a slow start to the campaign, Ponteland United have picked up and did well to draw 2-2 with early pace-setters Heaton Stannington at Grounsell Park despite being affected by injuries and suspensions.

Heaton had Kevin Carr close to opening the scoring but after 25 minutes it was Pont who took the lead when Andrew Davidson’s cross was headed on by Gavin Wood for Turner to fire home. Ten minutes later however Heaton levelled as Lawrence McKenna’s square pass was banged in by Carr.

United came under heavy second half pressure and the home side went in front when Edmore Murau was brought down in the box and Adam Donaghey scored from the spot. Despite this set-back Ponteland dug in deep and were rewarded by a 65th minute equaliser as a long ball from Ross Phillips put Billy Holden through to score with a lob over the advancing home keeper. Both sides had later chances but a draw was probably the right result.

Walker Central remained three points clear of Wark at the head of the table and the Central, the only side to remain unbeaten in the Premier Division, were 3-0 victors at home to Seaton Delaval.

David Dormand gave them an interval lead and Liam Mulligan netted twice inside the last ten minutes.

Heaton Stannington, Carlisle City and Killingworth Sporting are jointly occupying third spot but, like Heaton, Carlisle had to settle for a single point from their 1-1 draw away to Shankhouse. Steve Thornton fired Shankhouse into a 20th minute lead in what was their first home game this term but on the hour Joe Blaylock grabbed an equaliser for the Cumbrians.

Harraby Catholic Club suffered their second postponement of the new campaign when their home game with Murton had to be called off due to waterlogging.

DIVISION ONE – AMBLE UNITED ON THE RECEIVING END
After winning six games on the trot and banging in twenty-five goals in the process, First Division leaders Amble United were stopped in their tracks with a vengeance. United were victims of resurgent visitors Cullercoats who claimed an impressive 5-1 verdict. Stewart Wright gave Cullercoats the lead straight from the kick off and although Greg Dance supplied Amble with a prompt equaliser they were stunned after the break. Two goals each for Craig Deighton and Dave Fairless reflected a great performance by the Cullercoats lads.

Due to Amble’s slip-up they’re now sharing pole position with Gateshead Rutherford who have improved greatly compared to last term. Only beaten once in their seven starts, the Gateshead outfit secured their sixth victory in beating hosts South Shields United 3-2 and Kevin Urwin gave them a first half opener. Kyle Yorston levelled for Shields straight after the interval but their joy was short-lived. Johnny Gage handled on the line to be red-carded and Michael Jeffares put Rutherford in front again from the spot. Jeffares went on to score again for the visitors after 85 minutes and time was running out when South Shields bagged a second reply through Mark Davies.

Only two points shy of the top-of-the-table duo, Gosforth Bohemians and Percy Main are joint second in the pecking order and both won again to keep up the pressure. Against early strugglers Seaton Burn at Benson Park, the Bohemians romped to a 6-0 victory and the margin could have been even greater. There were three goals in each half scored for the Bohs by Matthew Owens (2), Harry Tulip (2), Liam Riley and Danny Sherwood to leave Seaton Burn still seeking their first point away from home.

Percy Main stayed in contention by beating Chopwell Officials 2-1 at Purvis Park but fell behind in the 37th minute and, when Graeme Cole committed a foul on Chopwell front runner Lee Best, the visitors’ centre half Gareth Powell beat Rob Rodgerson with his spot kick. Only four minutes later the Villagers were back on terms and after being hauled down by the Chopwell keeper, Craig Ewart tucked away his penalty to equalise. And with ten minutes to go second half substitute Callum Colbeck, set up by Ewart, scored the Main’s winner from just outside the box.

Whitley Bay A and Morpeth Sporting Club continued their climb up the table and the Bay, who have been beaten only once so far, were comfortable 4-0 victors away to Berwick United. Dean Porter claimed a hat-trick for Whitley whose other scorer was Jamie Lyndon.

After commencing their season with three consecutive defeats, Morpeth Sporting Club have won four games on the trot and did well to beat latest opponents Wallington at Scots Gap. Chris Tate and player-manager Richard Latimer were on the mark for Morpeth with Wallington’s single reply coming from Peter Southern.

Newcastle East End’s poor form continued and they were beaten 2-1 at home by Hebburn Reyrolle whose goals were both tucked away by Chris Morris. Dieu Lomana scored for the Eastenders as they slumped to a third successive league defeat.

DIVISION TWO – A WIDEOPEN GAP
A hundred percent record in seven games to date has installed Wideopen & District as clear leaders in the Second Division with Alan Booth’s side currently three points better off than second-placed Amble. Both sides won again last weekend and Wideopen beat struggling visitors Whitley Bay Town 3-1. Liam Jubb bagged a brace for the league leaders who also had Andy Walker on target while the Bay’s single reply came from Andy Milsom.

After a shock 2-1 defeat at home by Whitley Bay Town in midweek, their first setback this season, Amble got their act back together and responded by beating hosts Swalwell 4-1. Adam Shanks (2), Wyn Fremlin and Craig Kielty found the net for the Seasiders with Stuart Rook replying for the losers.

In joint third spot, Wallsend Boys Club and North Shields Athletic are working hard to stay in contact with the early pace-setters and the Boys Club, beaten only once so far, were 2-1 winners at home to league newcomers Cullercoats Custom Planet. Dan Henry and Michael Starkey supplied the Wallsend goals while Eddie Garrett scored for the Planet as they suffered a fourth defeat on the trot.

Like the Boys Club, North Shields Athletic have lost only one of their seven games to date and did well to beat fifth-placed visitors Wallsend Town 4-1 in a tough encounter. Dominic Vasseghi (2), Graeme Murray and Graham Williams supplied the Athletic’s goals and Paul McCutcheon was Wallsend Town’s sole marksman in what was only their second setback this term.

Although Stobswood Welfare and Newcastle Chemfica are nine points short of Wideopen’s total at the top, these two sides are in fine form at the moment with a quick climb up the table promised. Stobswood cruised to their third win in a row and hammered bottom rung hosts Tynemouth United 7-0. Dave Farrell completed his hat-trick for the Welfare and their tally was completed with further goals by Josh Hay (2), Paul Smith and Matthew Graham. The result was too much for the Tynemouth manager who resigned after the final whistle and the coast club is certainly suffering. They’ve lost all seven of this season’s games and have conceded twenty-nine goals already.

Following two back-to-back defeats Newcastle Chemfica are coming good again and claimed their fourth league win by beating visitors Newcastle BT 3-0. The BT lads, under new management, are still waiting to pick up their first point away from home and went down to Chemfica goals scored by Anthony Bruce (2) and Jonathan Ireland.

Willington Quay Saints are making every effort to recover from a less than perfect start and there are signs that they’ve turned the corner. Despite falling behind to Ross Armstrong’s fifth minute opener for visitors Cramlington Blue Star the Saints rallied to beat the league’s newcomers 3-1. Dave Smith’s penalty got them back on terms before half time and the points were in the bag when further goals were added by player-manager Trevor Ford and David Allan.

Hexham and Forest Hall each made it three draws on the trot with their 1-1 stalemate at Wentworth Park where a player from either side had to be taken to the nearby hospital. The injuries were no reflection of an entertaining and disciplined encounter. After a goal-less first half Ian Strachan gave Hexham the lead and only seconds remained when substitute Kevin Baldwin levelled from the penalty spot for the Hall.

By Bill Gardner
The top of the table clash between previous leaders Carlisle City and defending champions Walker Central at Sheepmount lived up to its star billing. And the Central’s 2-1 win allowed them to nudge their Cumbrian hosts out of pole position.

Andrew Stokes ended 57 minutes of stalemate with Walker’s opener but with nine minutes to go Carlisle were gifted an equaliser when visiting defender Craig Bryce steered the ball into his own net. Paul Stoneman restored the Central’s lead in the 85th minute to inflict a first defeat on City.

Wark and Killingworth Sporting are sharing third spot but fared very differently in their respective games. Wark won convincingly 3-0 away to Blyth Town with goals scored by Lee Telfer (2) and Marc Nixon but Killingworth surrendered their unbeaten record and went down 4-1 against visitors Harraby Catholic Club.

Killingworth were disappointed to lose their unbeaten record but could have few complaints about their 4-1 defeat at home by Harraby Catholic Club. Killy opened the scoring after only four minutes when Liam Callaghan was left unmarked to rifle his drive just inside the post.

Six minutes later Harraby responded when, after James Earl’s free kick tested home keeper Anthony, he was beaten by Sean Elliott’s header – the result of another dead ball delivery by Earl. This equaliser spurred the Cumbrians and they took the lead after 25 minutes when Anthony could only parry Earl’s effort onto the post and Rob Bainbridge was able to score with a simple tap in.

Unfortunately for Killingworth their keeper suffered a head injury in making his initial save and had to be replaced in goal by midfielder Kevin Grahamslaw and Harraby added two more goals before the break. Bainbridge punished a defensive error to claim his second of the game and just before the half time whistle Earl lobbed the ball over the stand-in keeper from the edge of the box.

Although it was all too late, Killingworth did create a few chances and Harraby custodian Andy Wills had to produce fine saves to deny both Jorge Bollado and David Jeffers. Francesco Di Pietro also went close for the home side but the Cumbrians deserved their clear victory on the day.

Heaton Stannington, Seaton Delaval and Shankhouse are all determined to maintain contact with the early season pace-setters and all three obtained positive results. At Grounsell Park, Heaton were in uncompromising mood to beat Premier Division newcomers Stocksfield 4-0. Eddie Murau fired them into an interval lead which was doubled after the break by Kevin Carr. Then, in the last ten minutes, Stocksfield conceded further goals to Gary Yates and Adam Donaghey.

Seaton Delaval secured their second league win in style by beating early strugglers Cramlington Town 4-0 at Wheatridge Park. Paul Baird opened the scoring on the stroke of half time and Cramlington, now with only two points from five games, came under a lot of pressure after the changeover. Further strikes by Jeff Fuller (2) and Steve Anderson underlined Delaval’s superiority.

After losing their first game of the season, Shankhouse have remained unbeaten in their last four matches and battled hard to claim a 2-2 draw away to Alnwick Town. After a goal-less first half two quick-fire goals put away by Scott McMullen and Gary Patterson put Alnwick in a strong position. But Shankhouse hit back and replies from Michael Bell and Kevin Gustard earned them a deserved share of the spoils.

Ponteland United, who celebrated their first win in midweek, were pulled up sharply and went down 2-0 at home to Ashington Colliers, both of whose goals were scored in the second half by Joe Moscrop. And Murton were also 2-0 victors at home to Heddon and had Mark Smith and Martyn Blenkinsop on target before the interval.

DIVISION ONE – THE BOHS SNAP AT AMBLE’S HEELS
After gaining promotion last term Amble United are taking the First Division by storm. Heading the table, the Seasiders have banged in 22 goals in their five games so far and have kept clean sheets in the last four. United’s hundred percent record stayed intact but they were restricted to a more modest 2-0 victory by freshly-relegated visitors Peterlee Town. As it turned out the league leaders had the points in the bag within six minutes of the kick off with Ross Gair and Ian Common grabbing early goals.

Gosforth Bohemians are the only other unbeaten side in the First Division and are three points behind Amble in second place. The Bohs have also adopted a free-scoring habit and won 3-1 in their tough home game against a youthful Chopwell Officials side. In the 40th minute Joe Bell opened the scoring for Chopwell but two immediate replies put Gosforth in front at the interval. New signing Tony Nelson got them back on terms just before Danny Sherwood scored from the spot following a foul on Tom Ameobi. And midway through the second half Paul Menton scored the home side’s third goal.

In joint third spot, Gateshead Rutherford and Percy Main met up at the latter’s Purvis Park and after four straight wins the Gateshead lads were beaten 2-1. Craig Ewart scored both of the Main’s goals in the 35th and 80th minutes. His first was scored from the penalty spot and his second was a perfect close range header from Dean Morgan’s well-aimed cross. David Loughlin’s last minute reply for Rutherford wasn’t going to change things and, having now won four of five games, Percy Main look set to challenge the teams above them.

Wallington have won three of their opening games and their latest victims were Hebburn Reyrolle, beaten 2-0 by their hosts whose goals were both put away by Alex Slack. It’s a pity however that Wallington are having to appeal for a new team manager and secretary. Based in Scots Gap near Morpeth, the club has a healthy playing staff but need a couple of people, perhaps in the Morpeth area, to fill the vacancies. Anyone interested in helping out should contact Robin Slack on 07793 596474.

Morpeth Sporting Club ran out 2-0 winners against Northbank to make their long trip to Cumbria worthwhile. Goals by Karl Snowden and Scott Pilkington left Northbank still pointless and propping up the table. And Berwick United celebrated a first success, beating visitors Seaton Burn 2-1. Paul Richardson and Mike Robinson netted for the Borderers with Sean Barker replying for the Tynesiders who seem to be struggling.

Whitley Bay A have made a reasonable start in August although they’ve been leaking a few goals. They conceded another two against South Shields United at Hillheads but still finished as 3-2 victors. Mick Armstrong scored first for Shields but the Bay responded with strikes by Jamie Patterson (2) and Mark Taylor. Armstrong’s second for the visitors came too late to affect the outcome.

Newcastle East End were well beaten 3-0 at home by Cullercoats who secured their first points after suffering four straight defeats and had a hat-trick hero in Dave Fairless.

DIVISION TWO – IT’S WIDE OPEN AT PRESENT
Amble and Wideopen & District are somewhat unexpected pace-setters in the Second Division, both with hundred percent records and sharing pole position. Amble made it five wins in a row but were rather fortunate to end the unbeaten run of hosts Wallsend Town. The issue was settled by a single goal scored for Amble by Sean Jobson.

Wideopen & District maintained their challenge by completing an early league double against Newcastle Chemfica. They had won 3-1 at home on the previous Saturday and in the return beat their hosts 2-1. Liam Naulls was on the mark for Chemfica but they were overhauled as Martin Roper and Rob MacDonald netted for Wideopen this time.

Hexham and Forest Hall have both made reasonable starts to their respective campaigns and Hexham, beaten only once in five appearances, featured in a 1-1 stalemate at home to Stobswood Welfare. Tom Phillips gave Hexham a very early opener and their lead survived until the 85th minute. At that point Josh Hay’s reply earned the Welfare their third draw on the trot.

Forest Hall also drew 1-1 at home to a Willington Quay Saints side still seeking its first win. The Hall have conceded a single goal in each of this season’s five starts and this time it was scored for the Saints by Callum Ancrum. Michael Reay found the net for the hosts to ensure a share of the spoils.

In fourth place and just behind Wallsend Town on goal difference, Wallsend Boys Club were restricted to a 1-1 draw by visitors Whitley Bay Town who picked up their first point of the campaign. Rob Nolan was the Boys Club scorer and Chris Atkin’s goal gave encouragement to the Town.

North Shields Athletic beat visiting new boys Cullercoats Custom Planet 3-2 with Craig Boyle bagging a brace and Glen Churchman also on target. Liam Graham and Ed Garrett were the Planet scorers.

Newcastle BT are showing signs of settling down and have harvested four points from their last two confrontations. The BT lads seem to have corrected some defensive frailties and drew 1-1 with visitors Swalwell in a game that could have produced more goals for each team. Chris Smith gave Swalwell the lead after half an hour and with ten minutes to go Greg Palmer deservedly levelled for BT.

Tynemouth United struggled last term and not a lot seems to have changed as they occupy the bottom rung in the Second Division following five straight defeats. Visitors Cramlington Blue Star were Tynemouth’s latest tormentors and easily won 5-2 after being two goals clear at half time. The Star’s marksmen were Ross Armstrong (2), Johnny Wardle, Sam Robinson and Jonathan Burbridge. United replied in vain through Dave Finlay and Japanese debutant Hisakazu Miyajima.

By Bill Gardner
A hundred percent record in three games has installed Carlisle City as clear leaders in the early Premier Division table. But the Cumbrians were fortunate to win 1-0 away to Heddon who seemed to have earned a third successive draw until Scott Priest scored his last minute winner.

Two points behind Carlisle, three teams – Walker Central, Wark and Killingworth Sporting – have all made unbeaten starts and defending champions Walker were convincing 6-1 victors away to Ponteland United.

Walker Central, now managed by Michael Jeffels, are aiming for a third successive Premier Division title and three unbeaten starts in this campaign have been promising.
After ten minutes Pont took the lead when Liam McIvor curled the ball into the centre where Billy Holden headed back across goal into the far top corner. The goal however seemed to inspire Walker with Paul and Ian Mills and David Dormand looking dangerous when in possession.

An equaliser was on the cards and it arrived when a short corner was played in to Ian Mills and his cross cum shot looped into the net at the back post. It was still all square at half time but within ten minutes of the restart the Central were in front. Dormand chased a long clearance before volleying past home keeper Harris-Green.
Ponteland’s Brown and Holden wasted two scoring chances and their misses were very costly. Walker clicked into top gear to bang in another four second half goals. The scorers were Ben Taylor, John Robson and substitute Steve Forster who bagged himself a brace inside the last seven minutes. His double strike inflicted further misery on a dispirited Pont side that suffered their third defeat in a row.

Wark’s impressive start continued with a 3-1 victory away to Murton who had Lee Jarvis scoring after only ten minutes. Just before the interval Tony Lancaster got Wark back on terms and they never looked back. A successful spot kick by Marc Nixon after 67 minutes put them in front and Lancaster’s second goal of the game sealed the points for the visitors.

Premier Division new boys Killingworth Sporting, with two successive divisional titles under their belts, beat hosts Cramlington Town 1-0. The Town were deprived of a deserved share of the spoils, conceding a penalty with two minutes to go which was put away by Killy’s Kevin Grahamslaw.

After their narrow defeat by Walker Central in midweek Heaton Stannington repaired some of the damage by beating Alnwick Town 3-2 at Grounsell Park. Steve Hutchinson’s second minute opener for Alnwick was cancelled out by Heaton’s Ian Irvine before the interval. The home side then forged ahead with further goals for Lawrence McKenna and Eddie Murau and although James Jeffrey scored a second for Alnwick they failed to make any further impression.

Having picked only one point from two opening games Harraby Catholic Club secured a first victory by beating visitors Seaton Delaval 3-0. Steve Archibald scored his third goal in three games to open Harraby’s account. In the second half Delaval pressed for an equaliser but in the latter stages were killed off by strikes by Marc Shiel and Rob Bainbridge for the home side.

Ashington Colliers drew 0-0 at home to Shankhouse while newly promoted Stocksfield were 2-1 victors away to Blyth Town. An own goal by Stocksfield’s Sean Wilkinson presented Blyth with an opener just before the interval but Phil Murray got Stocksfield back on terms midway through the second half when he was put through by Wayne Stewart. Then with ten minutes remaining Jonathan Barrett claimed a winner for the visitors as he headed home from substitute Paddy Finnerty’s cross. And it was third time lucky for Stocksfield who had picked up a point at Alnwick before narrowly losing out at Carlisle in midweek.

DIVISION ONE - GOAL RUSH BY NEWCOMERS
Following their promotion to the First Division, Amble United have started with a bang. The Seasiders are leading the field after obtaining three straight victories and scoring sixteen goals in the process. In midweek an impressive 5-0 home win against Percy Main was claimed with goals by Martin Humble (2), Chris Moffitt (2) and Darren Riddell. And United followed up by beating Cumbrian visitors Northbank three days later. This time their marksmen were Ronnie Warwick (2), Lee Harker, Ian Common, Darren Riddell and Shaun Kelly.

Another two hundred percenters – Gateshead Rutherford and Gosforth Bohemians – are keeping Amble company at the head of the table. Rutherford followed up a 3-2 home win against Durham neighbours Chopwell by surprisingly hammering their next visitors Whitley Bay A 5-1. Ross Greenhill and Mike Jeffares bagged a brace each for Rutherford whose other scorer was Kevin Urwin. The Bay’s token reply came from Alex Matthewson.

Three days after beating Hebburn Reyrolle 4-1 at Benson Park, Gosforth Bohemians claimed another home win when newly-promoted South Shields United were their 3-1 victims. Harry Tulip, Andy Dalton and Danny Sherwood netted for the Bohs in their latest victory with Phil Enlund scoring from the spot in the 85th minute for the losers.

Wallington have made an unbeaten start and are occupying fourth spot in the early First Division table. Michael Freathy scored all four of their goals in their 4-2 midweek home win against Berwick United and was also on target in the 2-2 draw with Newcastle East End in the next game at Scots Gap. The other Wallington scorer was Mike Calder and strikes by Graeme Hunt and Andy Hall allowed the Eastenders to share the spoils.

Four teams – Peterlee Town, South Shields United, Whitley Bay A and Percy Main – have picked up a tidy six points each from their three opening games. Peterlee secured two victories last week in beating hosts Morpeth Sporting Club 6-1 and then winning 2-1 away to Cullercoats. Only a daunting fixture backlog prevented Cullercoats from gaining promotion last term but they’ve made a poor start this time, losing all three of their matches to date. Manager Ken Ellis is demanding a swift improvement.

Percy Main soon recovered from their five-goal reverse up at Amble and their walking wounded recorded their second win, 3-2 away to Morpeth Sporting Club. Only 35 minutes into the game the Villagers had used all three of their permitted substitutes due to injuries.

The Main had taken an early lead through Joe Betts who then set up the chance for Callum Colback to add a second goal after 20 minutes. But Morpeth hit back and Chris Tate got them off the mark before the break with his close range header.

Percy Main restored their two goal cushion within five minutes of the changeover as new signing Chris Locke’s header gave Morpeth goalkeeper Mark Donnelly no chance. Richard Latimer, Morpeth's player-manager, scored his side's second goal but Percy Main held out to claim the points.

Hebburn Reyrolle claimed their first win by beating still pointless visitors Berwick United 5-1 with goals supplied by Chris Morris (2), Jay Telford (2) and Dan Matthews. And Seaton Burn drew 3-3 at home to Chopwell Officials. Ben Green, Matthew Lang (penalty) and Ian Armstrong found the net for the Burn with Chopwell replying through Gareth Powell, Chris Gill and Dave Fitzpatrick.

DIVISION TWO – THREE CLUBS SET THE EARLY PACE
Wallsend Town, Amble and Wideopen & District are sharing top spot in the Second Division with none of them having dropped a point so far. In pole position on goal difference, Wallsend Town beat visitors Tynemouth United 2-1 in midweek although goals for Paul McCutcheon and Lee Summers were a poor reward fore their dominance. And the Town followed up by impressively winning 3-0 away to neighbours Wallsend Boys Club. Ryan Arnott, Stephen Dodd and Nick Anderson scored in this local derby.

Amble finished fourth from bottom last season but have been raising a few eyebrows this time around. They had a successful week, starting with a 3-1 win away to Stobswood Welfare with goals for Wyn Fremlin (2) and Mike Straker. This was followed by a 4-1 win away to Cramlington Blue Star and their marksmen on this occasion were Adam Shanks (2), Straker and Fremlin.

Wideopen and District added six more points to their bundle last week to stay among the early pace-setters. In midweek they beat visitors Hexham 3-2 when goals by Chris Sword, Adam Walker and Gary Lamb just outweighed the strikes of Jamie McNamee and Tommy North for Hexham.

Another home win followed for the Wideopen lads and this time it was a more impressive outcome as they beat fourth-placed Newcastle Chemfica 3-1. Liam Jubb scored twice for the winners whose other marksman was Adam Walker while Chemfica only managed a single reply from Paul Brown and slumped to their first defeat.
League newcomers Swalwell and Cullercoats Custom Planet have both settled in reasonably well and Swalwell won both of their matches last week by identical 4-1 margins. Goals by Craig Robinson (2), Craig Wood and Rob Beverley saw the Swalwell lads see off midweek hosts Willington Quay Saints. And their next victims, this time at Derwenthaugh, were Tynemouth United. Ben Sartain was a lone scorer for a Tynemouth side still seeking its first point and they were sunk by Stuart Rook’s hat-trick for Swalwell who had Chris Smith completing their tally.

Cullercoats Custom Planet were hammered 4-0 in midweek away to Newcastle Chemfica whose scorers were Martin Dixon (hat-trick) and Dean Calvert. But the Planet regained their orbit three days later by winning 6-2 away to Newcastle BT. Nigel Morris (2), Tony Fawcett (2), Liam Graham and Edmund Garrett netted for Cullercoats this time with Greg Hamilton and Mark Shiells replying for BT who are still without a point.

Hexham bounced back from their defeat at Wideopen and hammered Whitley Bay Town 6-1 at Wentworth Park where Luke Parkinson and Tom Phillips claimed two goals each with the others put away by Tom North and Paul McLean whose strike was something special.

This was a second successive 6-1 humbling for Whitley Bay Town after midweek hosts North Shields Athletic had dished up the same treatment with goals by Craig Boyle (hat-trick), Dan Walton, Glen Churchman and Graeme Murray. And in the Shieldsmen’s next game a Churchman penalty earned them a 1-1 draw at home to Forest Hall whose reply came from Tom Jones.

After their humbling at home to Swalwell, Willington Quay Saints picked up their first point from their 2-2 draw with visitors Stobswood Welfare. Goals in each half for Mark Henderson and Dave Smith gave the Saints a clear lead but it was frittered away and the Welfare hit back though Paul Nesbitt and Sean Palmer to earn a share of the spoils.

By Bill Gardner
Both Killingworth Sporting and Stocksfield, newly promoted to the Premier Division, settled in quickly and Killy celebrated their top flight debut with a 1-0 home win against Ponteland United.
For the second season running United found themselves playing a promoted club on the opening day of the season and Killingworth were understandably fired up for the confrontation. They started brightly with Kevin Grahamslaw pulling the strings in midfield and the experienced Michael Bell as committed as ever at the back.

Killingworth took the lead on the half hour mark when Grahamslaw played in a quick ball to Jorge Bollado and with the Pont defence static he turned to fire crisply past United’s keeper Green-Harris who was standing in for the absent Michael Havelock.

Pont should have equalised shortly afterwards when Liam McIvor met Fenwick's corner kick but headed over the bar and then he had a shot saved comfortably by Ames after good work by Paul Hodgson. Right at the death Pont had a strong appeal for a penalty turned down when Fenwick was impeded in the box and they deserved at least a share of the spoils.

Stocksfield travelled north for their first taste of Alliance Premier Division football against Alnwick Town and came away with a creditable 1-1 draw. They forced Alnwick to defend for long periods and took the lead ten minutes before half time. An excellent flowing move was rounded off when ex-Blyth Town striker Mark Waugh headed home from Paddy Finnerty’s perfect cross to the back post.

Alnwick came back strongly after the break but had to wait until the 80th minute for their equaliser. Stocksfield keeper Berry was forced into racing off his line and in the process sent an Alnwick forward sprawling. James Lang slotted home the resulting penalty and a draw was probably the fairest outcome.

Ashington Colliers made the long trip over to Cumbria for their curtain-raiser against Carlisle City and were narrowly beaten 3-2 at Sheepmount. Two early strikes by Carl Armstrong gave the home side a great start. Replies from Gareth Rees and Joe Moscrop encouraged the Colliers but with nine minutes to go Simon Hill snatched City’s winner.
Murton only just avoided relegation last term but made a promising start this time around and beat visitors Shankhouse 2-0. Their goals in each half were scored by Karl Garside and Mark Smith and they saw off all of Shankhouse’s attempts to save the game.

After a top four finish last time, Seaton Delaval are hoping for another impressive campaign but they were also restricted to a 1-1 draw by Heddon at Wheatridge Park. Paul Jones gave Heddon the lead early in the second half but Steve Anderson got Delaval back on terms and in the closing stages they were twice denied by the woodwork.

Walker Central, aiming for a a hat-trick of Premier Division titles in successive seasons, got off to a shaky start under new manager Michael Jeffels. The Central were rather fortunate to salvage a point from their 1-1 draw with visitors Wark who had Marc Nixon opening the scoring in the 80th minute. Walker survived another scare before David Dormand levelled with five minutes to go.

Last season Harraby Catholic Club finished third behind Walker Central and Gillford Park but they too had to be content with a share of the spoils on the opening day. They drew 2-2 with hosts Cramlington Town and went ahead on the quarter hour when Steve Archibald’s cross was headed home at the second attempt by Marc Shiel. Cramlington hit back through Stu Hepple as he punished a defensive error and then Cameron Patrick who fired home from Kevin Long. It took a late goal by Archibald to rescue the visitors who also had a Rob Bainbridge goal disallowed for offside.

Heaton Stannington recorded the first day’s most convincing victory by winning 4-2 away to Blyth Town and three goals put away by Eddie Murau (2) and Lawrence McKenna had them well clear after 65 minutes. A brace for Joe Race got Blyth back in with a chance, his first goal set up by Tom Haigh’s diagonal pass and his second was also the product of Haigh’s vision. But Kevin Carr completed Heaton’s tally to make sure of victory.

DIVISION ONE – PROMOTED SIDES SETTLE IN QUICKLY
Newly-promoted Amble United and South Shields United both started life in the First Division with identical 5-1 victories. Amble United won their opening home game against Chopwell Officials. Chopwell’s Chris Gill managed to cancel out Darren Riddell’s opener for Amble but the Seasiders then took over. Riddell bagged his second and further goals were added by Martin Humble, Ron Warwick and Ross Gair.

South Shields United’s first day victims were Seaton Burn and the Shieldsmen look set to relish the new challenge they’re facing. Their scorers in a rather one-sided encounter were Tijan Kah (2), Aaron Kah, John Gate and Jack Lawton.

Wallington won 3-1 away to Northbank and dominated the first half with home keeper Mark Lightfoot having to produce several fine saves. But against the run of play Northbank took the lead when John Slaven's shot was handled by a Wallington defender and Louis Gallacher netted from the spot.

The lead only lasted for ten minutes and the visitors were gifted their opener when home defender Stuart Windsor turned the ball into his own net. Wallington then went ahead in the 82nd minute when Michael Freathy just managed to beat Lightfoot and as Northbank pushed forward they were caught on the break. Freathy raced through to claim his second goal for the Northumbrians.

Newcastle East End made a winning start in claiming an emphatic 4-0 verdict at home to Morpeth Sporting Club who operated as Red Row Welfare last term. The East Enders were always in command and underlined their superiority with goals shared by Dean Holmes, Sean Graham, Anthony Johnson and Paul Bright.
Berwick United had Michael Robinson on target in their opener at home to Gosforth Bohemians but were eventually beaten 2-1. The Bohs just edged it in the end thanks to strikes by Ben Guy and Danny Sherwood.

Cullercoats and Whitley Bay A both narrowly missed out on promotion from the First Division last season and came face to face on the opening day of the new campaign. Rob Watson and Danny Nelson found the net for Cullercoats but their goals counted for nothing and the Bay picked up the points from a 3-2 victory.

Percy Main were 2-0 victors at Purvis Park to see off Hebburn Reyrolle. The Villagers hadn’t won an opening game since 2004 so they were delighted with the outcome in this one. Ex-Whitley Bay A stalwart Callum Colback opened the Main’s account midway through the first half when his chance was set up by Jonathan McEnaney. After 55 minutes the home side’s lead was doubled and this time McEnaney was on target himself after getting on the end of Dean Morgan’s flag kick and scoring from close range.

Peterlee Town, relegated from the Premier Division at the end of last season, were beaten 4-2 at home by Gateshead Rutherford after having David Steel and Nathan Liddell on target. Their visitors always looked stronger however and wrapped up the points with goals supplied by Robbie Frame, Kevin Irwin, Andrew Reay and Ross Greenhill.

DIVISION TWO – ALL’S WELL AT THE WELFARE
Stobswood Welfare made a winning start to the new Second Division campaign and beat hosts Newcastle BT 3-1. With Lee Coulter replacing long-serving manager John Weatherstone, BT made a disappointing start and goals for Josh Hay (2) and Michael Hogg gave the Welfare a clear lead at half time. Greg Palmer’s single reply wasn’t enough to promise a revival for the home side.

Amble’s first visitors were Forest Hall and the Seasiders were a trifle lucky to clinch a single goal victory. In an evenly-contested game a penalty decided the outcome in Amble’s favour and it was put away by much-travelled striker Wyn Fremlin in the 23rd minute.

League newcomers Cullercoats Custom Planet, Cramlington Blue Star and Swalwell had differing fortunes in their respective Second Division debuts. Only Cullercoats made a winning start with a narrow 1-0 victory away to last season’s strugglers Tynemouth United. The Planet were sent into orbit by Edward Garrett’s vital goal midway through the opening half.
The two other newcomers suffered first day defeats although Cramlington Blue Star were only narrowly beaten 2-1 at home by Wideopen & District. Close range goals for Martin Roper and Gary Lamb gave Wideopen a clear lead and the Star’s reply came via Jamie Hutchinson’s header from a free kick in the 80th minute.

Swalwell got off on the wrong foot, finding first day visitors Wallsend Boys Club hard to handle and the Tynesiders ran out comfortable 5-1 winners. Their goals were equally shared between Alau Harib, Stephen Thompson, Evan Graham, Mike Starkey and Johnny Towns with Swalwell’s single reply coming from Chris Smith.

Like the Boys Club, Wallsend Town and Newcastle Chemfica also won by the same 5-1 margin to get their seasons off to a promising start. Wallsend Town won at home to Willington Quay Saints thanks to Stephen Dodd’s hat-trick and goals for Paul McCutcheon and Pat Masuku. Wes Fidler was a lone marksman for the Saints.

Newcastle Chemfica saw off visitors Whitley Bay Town 5-1 after Chris Lockerbie fired them in front. Although Liam Lockhart levelled for the Town, Dean Calvert restored Chemfica’s lead and more goals flowed from Phil Bone, Anthony Bruce and Liam Naulls (penalty) to wrap up the points.

North Shields Athletic earned themselves a first day point at Hexham despite conceding a goal to the home side’s Gavin Cox only four minutes into the game. Injuries reduced Hexham to ten men after they’d used their substitutes and Craig Boyle was able to get North Shields back on terms.

By Bill Gardner
Saturday marked the end of a long and gruelling Northern Alliance season with the same three clubs as last year – Walker Central, Gillford Park and Harraby Catholic – filling the leading places in the Premier Division.

On their way to claiming their second successive league title Walker Central suffered only one defeat and were unbeaten at their Monkchester base. They came very close to losing that record on the final day before snatching a 1-1 draw with visitors Heddon.

Heddon seemed set for an impressive victory after Daniel Dunn put them in front straight after the break. But midfielder Paul Gardiner rescued Walker with his successful spot kick in the dying seconds. And at the end of their last game in charge at Walker, manager Paul Bennett and his assistant Andy Wood – set to take over at West Allotment Celtic next term – paid tribute to the successful squad they’ll be leaving behind.

The outgoing Monkchester management team stated, “After three enjoyable years we’d like to thank all of the players for their enthusiasm, hard work, commitment and style of football. They have been great to work with week by week and have shared our aspirations. We’d also like to give a special mention to David Thompson who has worked hard both on and off the pitch in helping us to build our teams in our spell at Monkchester. So, to sum up, thanks to every single player who has played their part in the last three and we wish them good luck in the future.”

While Walker will be under new management for next season, runners-up Gillford Park will be leaving the Alliance’s ranks after gaining promotion to the Northern League’s Second Division.

Gillford finished ten points behind Walker and marked their exit with a 4-1 win away to Newcastle University who had Tom Ward opened the scoring. Ian Grainger restore parity for the Park and his colleague Steve Skinner finished the job with his second half hat-trick.

Gillford Park’s neighbours Harraby Catholic Club have finished first, second and third in successive seasons in the Premier Division. They ended up four points behind their fellow-Cumbrians after beating visitors Blyth Town 2-1 in a very competitive match. Aaron Roberts netted to give Harraby a fourth minute lead which was cancelled out by Blyth’s Michael Robinson ten minutes later. David Wallace claimed the home side’s winner in the 65th minute.

Seaton Delaval brought the curtain down with a 3-1 win away to Ashington Colliers to confirm a fourth place finish. Their first half opener put away by Nick Scott was wiped out by Anthony Wright’s 48th minute leveller for the Colliers. Steve Howes restored Delaval’s lead and John Fitzpatrick completed the winners’ tally.

Wark signed off by beating last day hosts Shankhouse 4-2 with goals supplied by Lee Telfer (2), Phil Thompson and Edward Brazier. Michael Bell and James Armstrong replied for the losers.
At the wrong end of the table Peterlee Town and Murton finished up filling the two relegation slots with Murton facing the drop after only one season back in the top flight.

DIVISION ONE – ANOTHER TITLE TRIUMPH FOR KILLY
There was a grandstand finish to the season in the First Division with championship and promotion issues only settled in the final week.

Killingworth YPC, who were Second Division champs last term, clinched the First Division title with a resounding 8-0 home win against Berwick United. Signing off in style their scorers were Liam Callaghan (hat-trick), Francesco Di Pietro (2), Kevin Westphal, Jorge Bollado and substitute Paul Dunn.

Stocksfield’s 1-1 draw with visitors Cullercoats was enough to earn them the runners-up spot while ending the promotion hopes of the Seasiders. Phil Murray gave the Tyne valley outfit an interval lead and the Cullercoats equaliser was put away in the 80th minute by James Leggett.

Whitley Bay ‘A’ missed out on possible promotion by only a single point, finishing third and just ahead of Cullercoats in fourth place.

Despite their disappointment, Cullercoats ended their tiring campaign with a 5-0 victory away to Gateshead Rutherford. Craig Deighton weighed in with a last day hat-trick and the other Cullercoats marksmen were Stuart Wright and Femi Akinbolu.

Red Row Welfare ended their campaign on the bottom rung in the First Division with Seaton Burn just above them and three points better off. These two strugglers had opposing fortunes on the last day. While the Welfare beat visitors Northbank 3-0 with goals for Michael Latimer, Chris Tait and Ben Lavender, there was no luck for Seaton Burn and they lost 5-2 away to Wallington. Ashley McAlpine (2), Peter Southern (2) and John Angus netted for the winners at Scots Gap with Seaton Burn’s replies coming from Stuart Taylor and Nick Hara.

Berwick United finished a disappointing season third from bottom and lost 5-1 on their visit to Hebburn Reyrolle. After a goal-less opening half David Jeffers gave Hebburn the lead but within another four minutes Lee Walker got the Borderers back on terms. This was their last shout however and Hebburn stormed to a convincing win with further strikes by Ray Oshin (2), Craig Malley and Andy Shotton.

DIVISION TWO – TYNEMOUTH ARE STAYING PUT
New champions Amble United and runners-up South Shields United have secured the promotion places in the Second Division. After being third in the previous campaign Amble made it all the way this time with a final eight-point advantage over their nearest rivals.

Stobswood Welfare claimed third place but were well behind the two pace-setters and the Welfare brought the curtain down with a 2-2 draw away to Wallsend Town. Michael Harmer scored both goals for Stobswood with their Tyneside hosts replying through Alan Errington and Paul McCutcheon.

Willington Quay Saints passed up the chance to replace Forest Hall in fourth spot and finished fifth after losing 4-2 away to Amble FC. Amble, who have struggled for most of this campaign, have ended with a successful run and saw off the Saints with goals by Adam Shanks (hat-trick) and Connor Miller. Willington’s scorers were player-manager Trevor Ford and David Smith.

After winning only one game and drawing another four, Tynemouth United have ended up on the bottom rung in the Second Division but are reported to have withdrawn their earlier letter of resignation. In what would have been their swan song, United were beaten 3-0 at Hexham where the home side’s marksmen were Darren Dobson, Tom Phillips and Luke Parkinson.

With Tynemouth deciding to carry on and a decision having also been made to restrict the Second Division to sixteen teams next term, there may be only two vacancies to be filled. And applications have been received from Cramlington Blue Star, Cullercoats Custom Planet, Kicks FC Wallsend, Swalwell and Throckley United.

By Bill Gardner
Having wrapped up their second consecutive Premier Division title with a few games to spare, Walker Central have determined not to take their foot off the accelerator. John Campbell bagged his 33rd league goal of the campaign on the hour to earn the champions a 1-0 verdict away to Ashington Colliers who look likely to finish third from bottom.

Needing to claim the runners-up spot to gain entry to the Northern League next season, Gillford Park got closer to their target with a 1-0 victory against Heddon at Bullocksteads. Steve Skinner scored their important goal after 57 minutes. And to see off the challenge of their third-placed neighbours Harraby Catholic Club the Park may need to win only one of their two remaining games at home to Wark (on Wednesday) and away to Newcastle University (next Saturday).

Harraby have let things slip, winning only two of their last eight games, and they were restricted to a 1-1 draw by hosts Ponteland United. Billy Holden had a couple of chances for Pont after 15 and 20 minutes but was unable to get his headers from two free kicks on target. And it was the visitors who took the lead after 30 minutes when home keeper Havelock failed to punch clear from a corner kick and Aaron Roberts managed to poke the ball home.

On the hour Ponteland deservedly got back on terms and when Holden’s pass found Lee McIvor he unleashed a fierce drive that flashed past Harraby keeper Milburn. Both teams had late chances to settle the issue but it ended all square. This was the fourth draw in succession for Pont and much credit must go to manager Jarrod Suddick as his team signed off with a ten-match unbeaten run but he is going to have to strengthen the squad in key areas for next season.

Seaton Delaval made certain of a top four finish with a 4-1 win away to Shankhouse and had Stephen Howes and Steve Anderson on target in the opening half. Connal Reed’s goal increased the visitors’ lead and, after Craig Johnson scored from the spot for Shankhouse, John Fitzpatrick completed Delaval’s tally.

Heaton Stannington brought the curtain down on their season in free-scoring style and beat Wark 6-0 at Grounsell Park. Adam Donaghey led the way with his hat-trick for Heaton whose other scorers were Aaron Jewell (2) and Kevin Carr.

Carlisle City also proved to be goal-hungry on their visit to Blyth Town and ended a sequence of five draws on the trot by beating the Northumbrians 5-0. Goals for Stuart Hill and Scott Priest gave City a comfortable interval lead and after the break further strikes by Tom Foster and Jamie Heath (2) completed their nap hand.

Peterlee Town and Murton ended their respective campaigns occupying the bottom two spots in the Premier Division table. A goal-less draw with hosts Newcastle University couldn’t prevent the Newtowners ending up on the bottom rung.

Murton finished only two points better off after losing 3-2 in their last game at home to Alnwick Town. Never getting their noses in front, Murton had David Scott and Lee Doyle on target but Alnwick confirmed victory with goals for Dale Kennedy (2) and Mark Cockburn.

DIVISION ONE – ISSUES STILL TO BE SETTLED
Going into the final week of what has been a long season, four teams – Whitley Bay ‘A’, Stocksfield, Killingworth YPC and Cullercoats – were still vying for the title and the two possible promotion slots in the First Division.

At the end of their own campaign Whitley Bay ‘A’ had amassed an impressive total of 57 points but they were still concerned that they could be overtaken. To pass the Bay’s bench mark their rivals had these respective targets: Stocksfield needed only a point from their final game at home to Cullercoats, while Killingworth had to win their last match at home to Berwick United. And the Cullercoats target, by far the most difficult, was to secure all nine points from outstanding fixtures at home to Gosforth Bohemian Garnett, away to Stocksfield and away to Gateshead Rutherford.

Cullercoats gave themselves an even steeper mountain to climb when they were beaten 3-2 by Percy Main at Purvis Park. The Villagers, completing their own season, were 2-0 down at the interval to goals scored by Rob Watson and Craig Deighton for the Seasiders. But they rallied effectively and ended on a winning note thanks to second half replies from Jason Ritchie, Michael Freathy and Liam Knox who scored his crucial goal in the 88th minute.

At the bottom end of the First Division table, Red Row Welfare and Seaton Burn will be filling the last two places. Seaton Burn will end a disappointing campaign at Wallington this weekend with the Welfare bringing the curtain down at home to Northbank.

Red Row will finish up on the bottom rung but secured a rare victory last weekend, beating visitors Gosforth Bohemian Garnett 2-1. Mike Latimer and Chris Martin netted for the Welfare with Gosforth’s single reply coming from Danny Sherwood.

Wallington had Ashley McAlpine scoring away to Hebburn Reyrolle but were eventually soundly beaten 4-1. Ray Oshin and Craig Walton bagged a brace each for the winners. And Newcastle East End signed off with a convincing 7-2 victory over hosts Berwick United. Lee Walker and Craig Mitchell were on target for the Borderers but the East Enders easily secured the points with goals for Paul Bright (2), Anthony Johnson (2), Michael Rush (2) and Andrew Hall.

Northbank shared the spoils in a 1-1 draw with visitors Rutherford who needed Robbie Frame’s goal to cancel out Mark Worrall’s opener for the Cumbrians.

DIVISION TWO – AMBLE SIGN OFF IN STYLE
Second Division champions Amble United visited a Tynemouth United side at the opposite end of the table to round off an encouraging campaign and beat their struggling hosts 2-0. Ronnie Warwick and Ross Gair scored to ensure a winning finish for United.

South Shields United are runners-up to Amble but will be five points shy of the league leaders’ total if they managed a win at Stobswood Welfare this week.

With the two possible promotion slots already filled, Forest Hall - currently in third place - are likely to be overtaken by Stobswood after being beaten 2-1 in their final game away to Amble FC. Wyn Fremlin and Adam Shanks were the Amble marksmen and club top scorer Michael Reay replied for the Hall.

Newcastle BT finished second from bottom but picked up a point by drawing 1-1 away to Benfield Chemfica who were also ending their season. Dan Jacks opened the scoring for Chemfica and Dave Thompson restored parity for the visitors.

A Tom Phillips hat-trick for Hexham earned them a 3-1 win against Wallsend Town who had been fired in front by Stephen Dodd at Wentworth Park.

It’s been agreed that there will be sixteen clubs operating in the Second Division next season. Only Tynemouth have indicated an intention to resign and there may be only three vacancies to fill. Applications have been received from Cramlington Blue Star, Cullercoats Custom Planet, Kicks FC Wallsend, Swalwell and Throckley United. And officials of these clubs were due to give presentations to the League Management Committee.

By Bill Gardner
If they managed to beat Wark at Monkchester last Monday night, Walker Central would have claimed the Premier Division title for the second year running. And their management duo of Paul Bennett and Andy Wood would have been able to bow out on a high note before taking over the reins at West Allotment Celtic in the Northern League next season.

Walker took a massive step towards another championship triumph by beating second-placed rivals Gillford Park 2-1, simultaneously retaining their unbeaten record at Monkchester. They had drawn 1-1 with visitors Seaton Delaval in midweek when they needed John Campbell’s successful spot kick to cancel out a Steve Howes opener for their opponents.

Club top scorer Campbell was on the mark again and gave the Central an interval lead against Gillford Park, firing home from eight yards out as he met a low cross from Paul Mills. The Park’s Ian Grainger levelled five minutes after the break. Unfortunately for the Cumbrians however, Walker were presented with a 70th minute winner as visiting defender Craig Thompson put the ball into his own net, under pressure from Campbell.

With Walker having the league title almost sewn up, the battle for the runners-up spot is continuing with Gillford Park under threat from neighbours Harraby Catholic Club. Harraby kept the pressure on by beating visitors Heaton Stannington 3-0 but didn’t find it easy.

Harraby were matched by Heaton in a goal-less opening half but once they had the strong wind in their favour it was a different story. Only the woodwork denied Rob Bainbridge as the Cumbrians pressed forward and after their young substitute Aaron Roberts was unlucky to see his lob carried just wide by the wind he opened the scoring after 78 minutes. He cut in from the left flank and after skipping past two Heaton defenders drilled his 20-yard drive inside the near post.

With Roberts causing problems , Harraby increased their lead in the 84th minute and, when his cross was handled by a Heaton defender, Mike Swift scored confidently from the spot. Then, only two minutes later Harraby scored their third and when a pass from James Tose put Bainbridge clear he fired low past the Heaton keeper.

Harraby are now only four points behind Gillford Park with a game in hand and if they manage to overtake their rivals they’ll deprive Gillford of their chance to step up to the Northern League so the stakes are really high.

Seaton Delaval look almost certain to finish in fourth spot and ended a run of three drawn games on the trot with a comprehensive 4-0 victory away to Wark. Player-manager Nicky Gray led by example by scoring two of Delaval’s goals and Steve Anderson also bagged a brace.

While there are still some twists and turns to come at the top of the table, results on Saturday condemned Murton and Peterlee Town to relegation. Both were beaten in respective penultimate games and Peterlee Town were soundly beaten 3-0 by hosts Ashington Colliers whose goals were shared by Richard Brown, Glen Bolton and David Brown.

Murton suffered a 2-1 defeat by visitors Newcastle University. After Tom Clark had given them the lead they were reeled back in after 80 minutes by Ben Burte’s equaliser and five minutes later his colleague Joe Foote snatched the University’s match-winner.

Ponteland United and Shankhouse each extended unbeaten runs to nine games and Ponteland featured in a goal-less stalemate with hosts Carlisle City who have drawn their last five games at Sheepmount. And Shankhouse beat Alnwick Town 2-1 at Northburn after trailing to Paul Yeadon’s opener for the Town. Darren Naylor got Shankhouse back on terms and with only two minutes to spare Anthony Moran claimed their winner.

Chris Taylor bagged a brace for Blyth Town in their 2-2 draw at home to Heddon who had twice been fired in front by Liam Heenan and Andrew Hall.

DIVISION ONE – SILVERWARE FOR CULLERCOATS
Favourites Stocksfield and Whitley Bay ‘A’, along with outsiders Killingworth YPC and Cullercoats, are still striving for a top two finish in the First Division. Cullercoats are still toiling through their fixture backlog but need to win all of their five remaining games to stand any chance of being promoted.
They did however pull off an amazing League Cup Final win at Prudhoe and sensationally beat Premier Division opponents Harraby Catholic Club 2-1 to lift the trophy.

Holders Walker Central and Seaton Delaval were among the victims of Cullercoats on their way to meeting Harraby. The Seasiders came up with another giant-killing performance and Femi Akinbolu gave Cullercoats a 23rd minute lead with his lob over the Harraby keeper. But the Cumbrians always looked dangerous and after the break Rob Bainbridge got them back on terms with his shot taking a lucky bounce before entering the net. Extra time was looming when Cullercoats snatched their winner in stoppage time. Once again Akinbolu was on target, this time with a clever back-heel in a goalmouth scramble.

Whitley Bay ‘A’ are in pole position in the First Division, level on points with Stocksfield who have a game in hand. The Bay however hammered Stocksfield 6-0 at Hillheads in midweek. They had Simon Reay (2), Dean Porter, Gavin Hattrick and Malcolm Morien on target with their tally topped up by an own goal gift.

The Whitley lads followed up with an equally convincing 5-0 win against visitors Wallington when their marksmen were again Morien (2), Hattrick, Porter and Reay. They were due to end their season with a game away to Cullercoats this week and victory for the Bay would leave Stocksfield needing four more points to pip them for the title. The Tyne Valley outfit beat hosts Seaton Burn 1-0 last Saturday with a quickly-taken free kick by Wayne Stewart and their outstanding games are at home to third-placed Killingworth YPC and fifth-placed Cullercoats.

Red Row Welfare and Seaton Burn can’t avoid filling the two unwanted berths at the foot of the table. And while the Burn were losing 1-0 to title chasers Stocksfield, Red Row Welfare lost by the same slender margin on their visit to Hebburn Reyrolle. A sending off left Reyrolle with ten men for two thirds of the game but Jay Telford’s second minute opener turned out to be conclusive.

Percy Main have missed out on possible promotion and had a mixed week starting with a 3-1 win away to Killingworth YPC thanks to strikes by Jason Ritchie, Graham Cole and Michael Freathy. But there was then a downturn for the Villagers as they lost 2-1 away to lowly Berwick United. Their only scorer this time was Jason Ritchie and the Borderers harvested the points with goals by Darren Cromarty (penalty) and Simon Hargreaves.

DIVISION TWO – AMBLE UNITED PASS THE WINNING POST
With a game to spare, Amble United have seen off the challenge of South Shields United to become champions in the Second Division. They claimed the title in midweek with a 4-0 victory at home to neighbours Amble FC when Brad Wake and Darren Riddell bagged a brace each. And the new champions will end their campaign this Saturday with a visit to Tynemouth United who are at the opposite end of the table.

Despite missing out in the championship race, South Shields United have guaranteed themselves a promotion slot. They will finish as runners-up after having Tijan Kah (2) and Iain Proud on target to beat last Saturday’s visitors Amble FC 3-1. And Gareth Allen’s side will bring the curtain down on a successful campaign with trips away to Wallsend Town and Stobswood Welfare.

At one point it looked as though Stobswood Welfare’s games in hand could offer them a chance of promotion but a final third place is now their best option. The Welfare beat midweek visitors Benfield Chemfica 3-1 with goals put away by Chris Graham (2) and Craig Keen but were beaten 2-1 by hosts Wallsend Boys’ Club three days later. On this occasion they had Michael Hogg cancelling out Rob Nolan’s opener for Wallsend but Nolan was on target again to earn maximum points for the home side.

Stobswood will finish in third spot if they can secure another seven points from their four remaining fixtures away to Tynemouth United and Wallsend Town and at home to Hexham and South Shields United. And they’ll need only a four-point haul to do the trick if Forest Hall, currently filling third place, are beaten in their final game away to Amble FC.

Tynemouth United could still avoid finishing on the bottom rung and in midweek recorded their first victory of the campaign. They beat hosts Whitley Bay Town 4-1 with goals by Chris Grieves (2), Mark Carey and Kevin Murphy. But United, reported to be resigning from the Alliance, have a tough task if they are to overtake second-bottom Newcastle BT. If BT lose their last two games at home to Amble FC and away to Benfield Chemfica the Tynemouth lads will still need seven more points to escape from the bottom rung. That may be a tall order considering that their remaining opponents are Stobswood Welfare (home), champions Amble United (home), Amble FC (away) and Hexham (away).

By Bill Gardner
At the turn of the year Ponteland United were in danger of losing their Premier Division status but there’s been a dramatic late season response by Jarrod Suddick’s outfit. A seven-match unbeaten run has hauled them out of danger into a safe and respectable mid-table slot and after Liam McIvor’s goal earned them a 1-0 verdict against close neighbours Heddon in midweek they entertained a Newcastle University side desperate to avoid relegation. The resulting goal-less draw was kinder to the black-and-whites than to the Students who have won only once in their last twelve outings.

The two teams produced some good football despite the eventual stalemate and in an otherwise highly entertaining match Dean Gate, Craig Dalglish and Phil Groom were impressive in defence for Pont. Andy Rendall was a tower of strength in an unaccustomed midfield role while Will Holden and Liam McIvor worked tirelessly up front.

The University belied their struggling status with a well-organised performance which indicated that they could get themselves out of trouble. Joe Foote and George Coyle were involved in most of their play and always willing to support the front two of Edwin Tizard and Ben Burt.

While Walker Central are showing no signs of taking their foot off the pedal as they aim for a second consecutive Premier Division title, their nearest rivals Gillford Park are beginning to flag. And Walker, in pole position with a game in hand, went six points clear of the Cumbrians by beating visitors Heaton Stannington 3-0. Yet to be beaten at their Monkchester base, the Central had Gary McCartney opening their account straight after the break. Their lead was increased by Paul Gardiner and Ian Dunn also netted to complete the home side’s tally.

Second-placed Gillford Park have clocked up an unbeaten run of fourteen games but have drawn four of their last five matches to dent their title hopes. And they were fortunate to share the spoils again from a 1-1 draw with fourth-placed visitors Seaton Delaval. Sean Naisbitt gave Delaval a fourth minute opener and their lead survived until Steve Skinner levelled for the Park in the third minute of stoppage time.

It was reported last week that Gillford have been accepted by the Northern League if they can achieve a top two finish but their hopes could yet be dashed by their neighbours Harraby Catholic Club. With a couple of games in hand and with an eight-point gap to bridge, Harraby beat lowly visitors Murton 5-0 with goals by Nick Routledge (2), Mike Swift (penalty), James Earl and Aaron Roberts.

With Murton losing over in Cumbria, Peterlee Town went level on points with their neighbours but remained on the bottom rung after drawing 1-1 at home to Alnwick Town. With only one win in their last nine outings Alnwick were fired into an early lead by Ben Keenan but Jonathan Monaghan’s penalty before half time got the Newtowners back on terms.

The three teams just above Murton and Peterlee in the basement all picked up precious points and Cramlington Town secured a vital 4-3 win at home to Wark.
After only 8 minutes Cramlington’s David Atkinson fired home from close range but almost immediately Jamie Peel levelled for Wark. The Town’s lead was restored by David Dormand but Wark came back to snatch the lead before half time with two strikes by Phil Thompson.

Cramlington weren’t to be denied however and with ten minutes to go Kevin Long scored to get them back on level terms. Then, with only two minutes to spare, Long claimed his second match-winning goal from close range with his header from a Kieran Parsons cross.

While Newcastle University were getting a promising result at Ponteland, their fellow-strugglers Ashington Colliers also drew, 2-2 at home to Shankhouse. Danny Taylor and Simon Cunningham scored first and last for the Colliers and in the interim Lee Gustard and James Armstrong netted for Shankhouse.

Heddon in mid-table have suffered only one defeat in eight recent outings and drew 1-1 with Carlisle City at Bullocksteads. Craig Cherry scored for City with the last kick of the opening half and Heddon’s leveller was put away by John Pearson immediately after the change-over.

DIVISION ONE – STOCKSFIELD ARE WEARY
Only Stocksfield, Killingworth YPC and Whitley Bay ‘A’ seem to have remained in the frame as far as promotion from the First Division is concerned. And while current leaders Stocksfield dropped two points their two rivals both won to keep the pressure on.

Stocksfield have been showing signs of tiredness lately, winning only two of their last eight games, and they were restricted to a 1-1 draw by hosts Wallington. Ashley McAlpine claimed his nineteenth league goal of the campaign for Wallington and Cairns Kettles levelled for the league leaders.

Killingworth YPC have come up on the rails to slip into second spot ahead of Whitley Bay ‘A’ and they have a useful game in hand. The championship is not out of Killy’s reach and they secured a sixth win on the trot although a 1-0 victory away to strugglers Seaton Burn wasn’t too convincing. Jorge Bollado scored the game’s single goal after only ten minutes.

Having played a game more than their two pace-setting rivals, Whitley Bay ‘A’ still have some work to do on the championship and promotion front. But the Bay have almost certainly killed off the hopes of fourth-placed Percy Main. Only five days after hammering the Villagers 6-1 at Hillheads, Whitley completed a league double with a 3-0 victory at Purvis Park.

Whitley were buoyed by club stalwarts Brian Smith drafted in to run the side while Tony Woodhouse gave an accomplished display in the heart of the defence. And they took an early lead as Malcolm Morien's well struck low free kick evaded the Villagers wall to sneak in at the far post.

The Bay doubled their advantage after 56 minutes with a goal from nowhere and as the ball was hooked into the area, Ian Lee found himself in acres of space to fire home unchallenged. And although Dean Clay and Tony Browell came close to getting vthe Main off the mark their visitors killed the game off with their third goal. Simon Reay sent over a measured flag kick for Morien to claim his second goal of the game.

Occupying fifth place at the moment, Cullercoats are still in with a chance of gaining promotion but with seven games outstanding it’s going to be hard work. And a 1-1 draw with lowly visitors Hebburn Reyrolle wasn’t all they’d hoped for. Alex Burnett netted for Cullercoats but Ray Oshin levelled for a Reyrolle outfit that has failed to win any of its last six games.

Newcastle East End beat powerful midweek visitors Whitley Bay ‘A’ 3-0 with all their goals scored by Anthony Johnson but only a few days later the Eastenders were beaten 3-2 at home by mid-table colleagues Northbank. Anthony Studholme claimed both of the Tynesiders’ goals but Mark Worrall’s hat-trick for the Cumbrians was conclusive.

Gosforth Bohemian Garnett face penalties for non-fulfilment of their midweek game away to Cullercoats but returned to action with a 2-1 victory against visitors Berwick United. Harry Tulip and John McDonald found the net for the Bohs with Darren Cromarty replying for the Borderers.

DIVISION TWO – AMBLE UNITED ARE NEARLY THERE
In the Second Division, Amble United need only a point from two remaining games at home to neighbours Amble FC and away to Tynemouth United to clinch the championship. And last week the Seasiders stayed firmly on course with two more convincing victories. They hammered midweek hosts Newcastle BT 10-0 and followed up with a 5-0 success away to fourth-placed Willington Quay Saints. Two goals for Darren Riddell took his season’s tally to twenty-three in the league and United’s other scorers were Brad Wake, Ross Gair and Ronnie Warwick.

Having almost certainly shot their bolt as far as the Second Division title is concerned, Amble United’s top-of-the-table rivals South Shields United may have to be happy with filling a promotion slot. Three more points from outstanding games at home to Amble FC and away to Wallsend Town and Stobswood Welfare would see them hit this target.

Although they’ve won four of five recent games Forest Hall will be lucky to achieve a top three finish even if they win their last match away to Amble FC. And the Hall were rather fortunate to beat bottom rung hosts Tynemouth United 1-0. Tynemouth haven’t won a league game all season and were only killed off in this one by Jamie Kennedy’s 88th minute winner for Forest Hall. The Tynemouth lads now only five games left to grab themselves an elusive first victory in the Second Division. There have been reports of resignation but they’ll still be up for final confrontations with Amble United and Stobswood Welfare (both at home) and trips away to Amble FC, Hexham and Newcastle BT have proved to have the Second Division’s leakiest defence this term and with three games to go look certain to finish second from bottom. After their midweek humiliation by Amble United the BT lads gave visitors Hexham a good game before narrowly losing 2-1. Iain Strachan’s first half opener for Hexham was cancelled out in the 65th minute by BT’s Colin Galbraith but with five minutes to spare Hexham’s winner was put away by Paul McLean.

Amble FC who, along with Stobswood Welfare are facing the most daunting fixture backlog, could soon be climbing clear of the basement and a 5-2 home win against Wideopen & District was another morale-booster. Wideopen had Gary Lamb scoring both of their goals but were well beaten in the end. Wyn Fremlin bagged himself a brace for Amble whose remaining marksmen were Michael Straker, Cory Robertson and David Shepherd.

By Bill Gardner
Seaton Delaval who, after three defeats on the trot, hammered title-chasers Harraby Catholic Club 5-0 at Wheatridge Park achieved the weekend’s most impressive result. Steve Anderson fired Delaval into a fourth minute lead that was doubled only three minutes later by Connal Reed. And Reed turned out to be the home side’s hero when he went on to add a second half hat-trick to his goals haul.

This was a major set-back for third-placed Harraby who have two games in hand but featured in a goal-less draw with neighbours Gillford Park before their defeat by Delaval. They’re now trailing fifteen points behind current leaders Walker Central. And Walker retained their unbeaten home record by beating Blyth Town 3-0, only three days after hammering midweek hosts Wark 8-0.

Walker Central are four points clear of Gillford Park with a game in hand. And against Blyth, Paul Gardiner ended an hour of stalemate with his opener fired home from close range as he met a low cross from Michael Lamb.

On 83 minutes John Campbell doubled the Central’s lead and when Garry McCartney was fouled he smashed home his free kick, giving the Blyth keeper no chance. Then with two minutes to go Walker’s winning tally was topped up by McCartney who prodded the ball over the line from a chance set up by earlier scorer Gardiner.

In second place, Gillford Park are now Walker’s most potent rivals although they’ve played a game more and have a four-point gap to bridge. After drawing three games on the trot the Park got back to winning ways and remained unbeaten on their own patch after beating Ashington Colliers 3-0. Tyran Taylor opened Gillford’s account midway through the first half and Steve Skinner doubled their lead in the 55th minute. The Colliers battled hard but were killed off by Alistair Lang’s goal for their hosts eight minutes from the end.

Wark leapfrogged over Ashington and gave themselves breathing space in the basement by winning 3-2 at home to Alnwick Town. Three days after an eight-goal drubbing by Walker Central the Wark lads bounced back with goals by Marc Nixon (2) and Mark Elliott. Richard Brown and Ben Keenan replied for Alnwick but their earlier form has deserted them.

Cramlington Town moved up a notch to third from bottom after an impressive 1-1 draw with in-form visitors Heaton Stannington. After taking a second minute lead through Paul Joisce, the Town were unlucky to concede an equaliser to Heaton’s Andrew Weeks in the 80th minute.

Newcastle University’s games in hand could get them out of relegation trouble and they ended a run of four home defeats by beating Carlisle City 2-1. After losing 3-0 against Alnwick Town at Cochrane Park in midweek the Students picked up three precious points. City’s Jamie Heath cancelled out Martin Hill’s opener for the Students but Hill’s second goal settled the issue.

City’s Jamie Heath cancelled out Martin Hill’s opener for the Students but Hill bagged himself a late second goal to settle the issue.

With only a point separating them at the foot of the table both Murton and bottom rung neighbours Peterlee Town lost again to increase their fears of the drop.

Murton had Karl Jarvis putting them in front at home to Heddon but late replies from John Pearson and Joe Kerry earned Heddon a 2-1, verdict. In fact it proved to be a good week for Heddon who had beaten Seaton Delaval 2-0 at Bullocksteads a few days earlier with both of their goals on that occasion tucked away by Craig Horsfall.

Murton’s partners-in-trouble Peterlee also went down 2-1 away to Shankhouse who had Craig Johnson and Darren Naylor scoring on either side of the break before Jonathan Monaghan got the visitors off the mark.

Meanwhile, there were reports last week that neither of the league’s two applicants – Walker Central and Gillford Park – will be stepping up to the Northern League this year. Walker have evidently withdrawn their application while Gillford are unlikely to satisfy ground requirements.

DIVISION ONE – VILLAGERS JOIN THE FRAY
Seven wins on the trot have put Percy Main firmly in the reckoning in the First Division and they’ve leapfrogged over Whitley Bay ‘A’ into second spot behind clear leaders Stocksfield. And the Villagers could be set to deprive the Bay of a promotion slot.

The Main won 2-1 at Seaton Burn with goals by Joe Betts and Jason Ritchie (penalty) and followed up with another 2-1 success away to Newcastle East End. This time their scorers were Betts and Tony Browell with Gary Dixon replying for the East Enders.

To assist Percy Main’s cause, both of their top-of-the-table rivals Stocksfield and Whitley Bay ‘A’ slipped up. Stocksfield had beaten midweek visitors Northbank 2-1 thanks to strikes by Wayne Stewart and Phil Murray but were then beaten 4-3 at home by Gosforth Bohemian Garnett. Despite having Stewart and Ben Pearson (2) on target the league leaders were left empty-handed. The Bohs were impressive opponents and John-Paul McDonald and Harry Tulip bagged a brace each to just edge out their powerful hosts.

Goals supplied by Dean Porter (2), Jonathan Kew and Malcolm Morien earned Whitley Bay ‘A’ a 4-2 verdict on their visit to Hebburn Reyrolle in midweek. But three days later they were brought down to earth and suffered a 3-1 defeat at Hillheads administered by fourth-placed Killingworth YPC. Ian Lee netted for Whitley but Killy secured a deserved victory with their goals shared by Jorge Bollado, Lee Fairley and Kevin Grahamslaw. And Killingworth are now only two points behind the Bay with a game in hand to aid their late bid for promotion.

Having played fewer games than any other team in the division, Cullercoats are still aiming for a top two finish although their fixture backlog will test their stamina. The Seasiders were restricted to a 4-4 draw by midweek visitors Wallington who had Alex Slack (2) and John Angus (2) on the mark to cancel out the efforts of the Cullercoats marksmen Alex Burnett, Ben Gardiner, Craig Deighton and Rob Watson. But the Cullercoats lads were in more determined mood when they visited Berwick United and ran out 6-1 victors. Their goals against the Borderers were equally shared by Andy McColl, Alex Burnett, Sean Smith, Femi Akinbolu, Steve Hart and Ben Gardiner.

DIVISION TWO – AMBLE TAKE THE INITIATIVE
The ongoing battle between current leaders Amble United and rivals South Shields United for the championship in the Second Division was tipped in Amble’s favour last week. They collected maximum points from their two games and kicked off by beating strong visitors Stobswood Welfare 2-0 with first half goals for Ronnie Warwick and Sean Kelly. Another victory followed and Amble repeated the 2-0 score-line against their next visitors Wallsend Boys’ Club. On this occasion both of their goals were put away by Darren Riddell who took his personal tally of league strikes to nineteen.

In comparison, second-placed South Shields United started their week shakily and had to come from behind with goals by Kyle Yorston and Phil Enlund to salvage a point in a 2-2 draw with bottom rung hosts Tynemouth United. Things improved however and the Shieldsmen followed up by winning 2-1 at home to Stobswood Welfare as an own goal plus a Mark Davey strike extended their unbeaten run to eleven games.

The two pace-setters have the title race all to themselves and there’s a twelve-point gap separating them from Willington Quay Saints in third spot. The Saints are finishing strongly however and collected two more scalps last week. Visitors North Shields Athletic were their first victims and were soundly beaten 6-0. Glen Gallon scored four of the Willington goals with Gareth Pugh and John Foggett also on target. The Saints then visited lowly Tynemouth and won 3-0 thanks to goals by Gareth Pugh (2) and Chris Lowes. And while they are out of the running themselves Willington could sill have a big influence on who claims the title. This Saturday they are entertaining Amble United in what could prove to be a crucial encounter.

At the wrong end of the Second Division table Tynemouth United are propping up the rest with only four meagre points to show for their efforts in this campaign. Newcastle BT look likely to end up second from bottom and another two defeats didn’t help. They were beaten 1-0 by visitors Wallsend Town whose goal on the half hour was claimed by Paul McCutcheon. And hosts North Shields Athletic were BT’s next tormentors, winning 5-1. The Athletic’s marksmen were Glen Churchman (hat-trick), Matt Donkin and Simon Moslemi with John Baker replying for the losers.

Wallsend Town could save a largely disappointing season at Whitley Park this Friday night when they take on Blakelaw Crofters Lodge in the Ideal Stelrad NFA Minor Cup Final kicking off at 7-00 p.m.

By Bill Gardner
Walker Central’s chances of a second successive title success in the Premier Division improved again as they hammered bottom rung visitors Peterlee Town 8-1. Peterlee, the only team to have beaten Walker in the league this term, were soon in trouble and were 4-0 down at half time.

During a goalmouth scramble, John Campbell opened the Central’s account and midway through the half their lead was doubled by Martyn McGonigal at the end of a flowing move. And things didn’t improve for the visitors who were hit twice more before the break. A 35-yard special by Craig Scott flashed into the Peterlee net and then Campbell claimed his second goal. This time he scored from fifteen yards when his chance was carved out by Michael Cave.

Straight after the change-over Ian Dunn joined the scoring spree and went on to complete a second half hat-trick for Walker who also had Dean Walker on the mark to complete their tally. Peterlee’s only response was a single 54th minute reply by Martyn Lacey. And with only five games to go to complete their season things are continuing to look black for the Newtowners.

Walker, still to be beaten at home, went two points clear of nearest challengers Gillford Park and have a useful game in hand. And Gillford, despite lifting the Challenge Cup in midweek and then extending an unbeaten run in the league to eleven games, came unstuck and only managed a 1-1 draw at home to Alnwick Town. Chris Grainger netted for the Park with Ben Keenan on target for the plucky Northumbrians.

Harraby Catholic Club, the only other team with a realistic interest in the championship race, stayed in third spot but were fortunate to beat visitors Ashington Colliers 1-0. Harraby have spilled nine vital points in their last six games and after a goal-less draw in midweek were lucky to win this one. The Colliers put on a great show until Ian Cummersky slotted in his 85th minute winner for the Cumbrians.

After winning three away games on the trot Seaton Delaval were brought to a halt by hosts Heaton Stannington who have only lost one of their last nine games. Heaton avenged an earlier defeat by winning 5-3 and Gary Yates bagged an early brace to give them a flying start.

Delaval however came back strongly to go in front with replies from Steve Howes, Craig Johnson and Connal Reed. But Joe Wear got Heaton back on terms and they went on to secure the points with two quick-fire goals by Adam Donaghey and Yates who completed his hat-trick in the 75th minute.

Both Ponteland United and Ashington Colliers have dragged themselves clear of the basement and, after beating Murton 1-0 at home in midweek, Ponteland won by the same margin on their visit to Newcastle University. Their winner this time was scored straight after the break by Marc Dummett to leave the Students fighting for their Premier Division future.

Murton are only one point better off than their Durham neighbours Peterlee at the foot of the table, despite winning 4-1 at home to Wark. Wark actually opened the scoring through Martin Hardy but his goal was cancelled out by Karl Garside’s spot kick before half time. And Murton wrapped up the precious points with later strikes by Garside and Paul Wintrip (2),

Cramlington Town remained in danger of the drop after their 2-1 defeat by Heddon at Bullocksteads. After seven home games without a win Heddon stopped the rot, scoring first and last through John Dunn and Liam Heenan. David Atkinson replied in vain for Cramlington.

Blyth Town became only the second team to claim the NFA Senior Benevolent Bowl in successive seasons with a 2-0 victory over league colleagues Percy Main at Whitley Park last Friday night.

A very scrappy encounter only came to life in the 75th minute when Joe Race put Blyth in front. Good work by Danny Beresford culminated in the award of a free kick which Race curled into the top corner of the net from just outside the area. Then with six minutes to go Danny Beresford’s goal ensured that Blyth held onto the silverware. From just inside the box and after dispossessing a Percy Main defender he found the net with a perfect right-footed drive.

DIVISION ONE – SEATON BURN SURPRISE LEADERS
As in the Premier Division, three teams – Stocksfield, Whitley Bay ‘A’ and Cullercoats, have retained hopes in the race for the title and possible promotion, although Percy Main could also figure in the final weeks after coming up on the rails.

Leaders Stocksfield, still with a clear seven-point lead, suffered a midweek shock in losing 2-1 at home to lowly Seaton Burn who had goals by Jonathan Wood and Stuart Taylor outweighing Ben Pearson’s strike for their hosts. But the Tyne valley table-toppers bounced back quickly to beat their next visitors, bottom rung outfit Red Row Welfare, 5-2. This time the Stocksfield scorers were Wayne Stewart (2), Sandy Tordoff, Ben Pearson and Josh Brooks with both of the Welfare’s replies coming from Paul Pescod.

Whitley Bay ‘A’ in second spot are only a point better off than third-placed Percy Main with the same number of games played. Percy Main took a rest after Friday night’s 2-0 defeat by Blyth Town in the NFA Senior Bowl Final while the Bay leapfrogged over them by winning 2-0 away to Berwick United. Goals by Jamie Lyndon and Malcolm Morien completed a league double over the Borderers.

In sixth place at present, Cullercoats had a week of mixed fortunes starting with their impressive 7-1 home win against Killingworth Y.P.C. Femi Akinbolu and Steve Hart bagged a brace each for the Seasiders whose remaining marksmen were Craig Deighton, Ben Gardiner and Peter Bradley. Three days later however the Cullercoats lads were beaten 2-1 by hosts Chopwell Officials who had Joe Bell and Rowland Lee on the mark to edge it after Stuart Wright claimed the goal for their visitors.

Cullercoats are still nine points short of a promotion slot but have four potentially-crucial games in hand. This week they were due to face Newcastle East End away, Wallington at home and Red Row Welfare away as they continue to tackle their fixture backlog.

Wallington won 4-2 at Red Row in midweek with goals for Jack Palmer (2), Sam Walton and Peter Southern but only managed a 1-1 draw with visitors Northbank last Saturday. Walton’s goal this time wasn’t enough and Martin Rickerby levelled for the Cumbrians.

In two games in the space of three days Killingworth YPC conceded twelve goals and after being hammered by Cullercoats they went down 5-1 to their next hosts Gateshead Rutherford. Jorge Bollado was their only scorer while Rutherford made it six home wins on the trot with strikes by Dan Robinson (2), Robbie Frame, Wayne Roberts and Ross Taylor.

Gosforth Bohemian Garnett lost 3-1 away to Berwick United before picking up a point from their 1-1 draw with visitors Seaton Burn who are still trying to escape from the drop zone. The Burn’s David Hewitt opened the scoring early in the second half but within ten minutes a rare goal for Danny Sherwood got the Bohs back on terms.

DIVISION TWO – HEAD TO HEAD AT THE TOP
Amble United are level on points with South Shields United at the head of the Second Division table, having played the same number of games. Amble have a vastly superior goals difference but their two victories last week were marginal affairs. After an early Paul White goal allowed them a 1-0 home win against strugglers Tynemouth United there was a 3-2 success at Hexham. Gavin Cox scored both of Hexham’s goals while Amble had to call on two substitutes to rescue them. Darren Riddell (2) and Ronnie Warwick netted after coming off the bench.

Joint leaders South Shields United were idle in midweek before a 4-4 action-packed draw away to Willington Quay Saints ended their winning streak. In a see-saw encounter Glen Gallon claimed a hat-trick for the Saints whose remaining marksman was Gareth Pugh. Aaron Kah (2), Tijan Kah and Kyle Yorston found the net to earn the Shieldsmen a share of the spoils.

Thirteen points are now separating the two table-toppers from their closest rivals but they’ll have to keep- an eye on Stobswood Welfare who are currently in fifth spot. The Welfare have four games in hand as they push for a promotion slot and could soon be overtaking both Forest Hall and Wideopen & District.
Stobswood had Chris Glass, Mark Sinclair and Michael Harmer finding the net in their 3-1 home win against Wideopen in midweek and followed up by beating hosts Newcastle BT 4-1 with goals shared by Dave Farrell, Kerry Shotton, Harmer and Chris Glass. Unbeaten in their last seven outings, the Stobswood lads seem set to finish with a flourish and were due to take on both Amble United and South Shields United this week.

A Mark Knights goal was all Forest Hall had to show for a 4-1 defeat away to Willington Quay Saints who had Mark Henderson (2), Stephen King and Glen Gallon finding the net. But the Hall’s luck changed when they visited Wideopen & District and this time they were on the right end of the same 4-1 score-line. A Michael Reay hat-trick took his Forest Hall tally to twenty-two goals. His colleague Matthew Smith also got his name on the score sheet while Wideopen’s replies came from Liam Jubb and Chris Sword.

Tynemouth United’s future in the Northern Alliance may be in doubt. They’ve become completely isolated on the bottom run with Newcastle BT and Amble FC above them. Tynemouth followed up their narrow defeat by Amble United with a heavier 7-3 punishment by visitors North Shields Athletic whose goals were provided by Matthew Donkin (hat-trick), man-of-the-match Glen Churchman (2), Dan Walton and Chris Connor.

Amble FC were beaten 1-0 at home by Benfield Chemfica whose winner was put away by Ryan Stobbard while Whitley Bay Town shared eight goals with visitors Wallsend Town.

By Bill Gardner
Heddon had drawn five and lost three of their last eight league games but finally came good by beating hosts Newcastle University 1-0 and avenging an earlier defeat by the Students. It was a close thing however and Joe Kerry scored Heddon’s winner in the second minute of stoppage time.

Gillford Park, still in pole position, dropped crucial championship points when hosts Murton – at the opposite end of the table – restricted them to a goal-less draw. The result was welcomed by Walker Central who are now only three points behind Gillford with two games in hand.

Defending champions Walker helped themselves by beating fourth-placed Harraby Catholic Club 2-1 at Monkchester to retain their unbeaten home record. All the goals were scored in the opening half and John Campbell opened the scoring for Walker on the half hour mark with a great drive from the edge of the box.

Within another three minutes Campbell claimed his second goal to increase his side’s lead, aided by the strength of Ian Dunn when he met a cross from Michael Lamb. However, Harraby soon pulled a goal back and a mix-up in the home defence allowed Roy Holliday to unleash a shot which keeper Chris Bannon took the sting out of but the ball still managed to cross the line.

Alnwick Town have dropped out of the reckoning in the title race and lost 3-0 away to Blyth Town who are proving difficult to beat on their own patch. Chris Taylor opened the scoring midway through the first half during a goalmouth scramble.

Blyth’s lead wasn’t doubled until six minutes after the break and Jonathan Mann fired into the bottom corner when his chance was set up by Danny Beresford. And in the 59th minute the hosts added to their tally when Mark Waugh’s lofted ball into the area eluded everyone to find its way into the net. And the Blyth lads were looking forward to a big date this Friday, 17th April. As holders, they will be taking on league colleagues Percy Main in the Northumberland FA Senior Bowl Final at Whitley Park kicking off at 7-00 p.m.

Shankhouse leapfrogged over Alnwick into fifth spot but failed in their bid to make it five wins on the trot. At Northburn they drew 2-2 with Ponteland United who were pleased to salvage a point.

With former player Darren Naylor giving the Pont defence a torrid time a Shankhouse opener was always on the cards and after only 12 minutes when an unmarked Anthony Moran headed home from a corner kick. And three minutes later Shankhouse doubled their advantage from another set piece as Martin Bell’s free kick was headed in by Andy Sherlaw.

Ponteland hit back shortly after the change-over and Liam McIvor reduced the arrears who controlled a chipped pass from Phil Groom before slipping the ball past Shankhouse keeper Dave Dent. This goal gave Pont some added belief but suffered a blow when captain Craig Brown limped off injured. However United remained in good shape and in the 65th minute they got their deserved equaliser as a fine cross from Andrew Davidson gave Scott Fenwick his chance to head home at the back post.

There were changes in the bottom-of-the-table pecking order and Ashington Colliers and Cramlington Town both claimed rare victories to ease their fears of relegation.

Ashington ended a long lean spell with an impressive 2-0 success at home to Carlisle City to end a successful run by the Cumbrians. The Colliers secured the vital points with goals in each half claimed by Glen Bolton and Anthony Wright.

Cramlington took a leaf out of Ashington’s book and completed a league double with a 4-1 win against visitors Peterlee Town. David Atkinson and Stewart Hepple were on target early on for Cramlington and after Jonathan Monaghan hit back for the Newtowners a second half brace bagged by David Dormand proved decisive for the hosts.

Heaton Stannington extended an unbeaten run to five games with a 2-2 draw at Wark where their goals came from Kevin Carr and Aaron Jewell. Marc Nixon scored both goals for Wark.

DIVISION ONE – CULLERCOATS SUFFER ON TWO FRONTS
Cullercoats had a disappointing week in the First Division starting with a 6-2 defeat away to Gosforth Bohemian Garnett. And this set-back for their promotion hopes was followed by their 3-2 defeat by visitors Whitley Bay ‘A’ in the semi-finals of the Pin Point Recruitment Combination Cup. Steve Hart’s two goals for Cullercoats weren’t enough and the Bay booked their place in the final with goals shared by Chris Reid, Michael McMullen and Ian Lee.

Whitley Bay’s opponents in the forthcoming Combination Cup Final will be Red Row Welfare who, after a goal-less league draw at home to Berwick United in midweek, belied their league ranking to beat semi-final visitors Wallington 2-1. Lee Isbister claimed both of the Welfare’s goals with Peter Southern replying for the disappointed losers.

Stocksfield are still five points clear at the head of the table but showed their vulnerability in a goal-less draw away to Hebburn Reyrolle. But Percy Main had a great week and two victories took them into second spot although they may have left their charge too late.

Goals for Pierre Coiffait, Jason Ritchie and Joe Betts earned the Villagers a 3-1 midweek verdict against Newcastle East End at Purvis Park. And three days later the Main won 2-0 away to Gosforth Bohemian Garnett to extend their successful run. Their goals this time were tucked away in the second half by Jon McEnaney and Sean Potts.

Whitley Bay ‘A’ remained in third place, still in with a good chance of winning promotion and they have a game in hand of Percy Main. The other promotion contenders appear to be Killingworth YPC but they suffered a setback and shed two vital points on their visit to Northbank. In the resulting 2-2 draw Dave Glendinning and Mark Graham netted for the Cumbrians with Killy’s replies coming from Liam Callaghan and Peter Mulholland.

Newcastle East End bounced back promptly following their defeat at Percy Main and beat Saturday’s lowly visitors Berwick United 2-1 with goals by Paul Bright and Gary Dixon outweighing a Simon Hargreaves strike for the Borderers. And Chopwell Officials, rapidly running out of games, were 3-1 victors away to Seaton Burn. The Chopwell marksmen were Dave Fitzpatrick, Graham Clark and Rowland Lee before Dave Hewitt replied for the Burn who are still in danger of being relegated along with Red Row Welfare.

DIVISION TWO – FOREST HALL MAKE SEASIDERS SICK
Last Tuesday night at Hillheads, Forest Hall lifted the Pin Point Recruitment Amateur Cup by beating promotion seekers Amble United 3-2. Ross Gair bagged both of United’s goals but their cause was hit by a sending off late in the first half. Thanks to Michael Reay’s hat-trick Forest Hall claimed the silverware and Reay has now scored 28 goals in all competitions so far in this campaign.

Amble United’s cup final defeat was followed on Saturday by another blow and the second-placed Seasiders could only manage a 2-2 draw in the league away to North Shields Athletic. It took a strike by Darren Riddell to cancel out Glen Churchman’s goal for the home side.

Although Amble United have a game in hand they are now trailing five points behind current leaders South Shields United who are showing no signs of easing up. They’ve made a habit of winning and added three more points to their championship chest with a 3-0 victory away to Newcastle BT. Although a weakened BT outfit battled hard they were sunk by goals supplied by Tijan Kah and Kyle Yorston in the first half and Phil Ormond after the break.

South Shields and Amble United are now locked in an exclusive battle for the title with the Shieldsmen apparently holding all the aces. No other sides are within striking range barring a severe dip in form for the pace-setters and the likes of Wideopen & District, Forest Hall and Willington Quay Saints may be only vying for an ultimate third spot.

Willington Quay entertained Wideopen last Saturday and emerged as 3-0 victors thanks to strikes by Glen Gallon (2) and Mark Henderson. And Forest Hall followed up their midweek Combination Cup triumph with a 3-3 draw away to Stobswood Welfare. The Welfare had beaten hosts Amble FC 4-1 three days earlier when their goals were shared by Michael Hogg, Josh Hay, Matthew Graham and David King. But against Forest Hall hits by Hay, Kerry Shotton and Dave Farrell weren’t quite enough and the Hall grabbed a share of the spoils with replies from Michael Reay (2) and Michael Kennedy.

On the bottom rung in the Second Division and still seeking their first league win, Tynemouth United are suffering from a single goal defeat syndrome and they suffered two such set-backs last week. First they were beaten 2-1 by hosts Wallsend Town and then went down to a late Ben Harding goal for visitors Whitley Bay Town.

Amble FC however took a step towards safety after losing to Stobswood and they beat visitors Hexham 2-0 to move up to fourth from bottom. John Charlton scored his first goal for the cub to open Amble’s account and Adam Shanks later doubled their lead later on.

By Bill Gardner
Four of the eight Premier Division games down for decision resulted in draws but leaders Gillford Park picked up maximum points to go three points clear of second-placed Walker Central. The Park retained their unbeaten away record by winning 2-0 away to Ponteland United.

With eight first team players unavailable through injury and illness Ponteland faced an uphill struggle and a first start was given to youngster Ricky Fenwick while local boy Chris Walpole was also in the starting line-up following his return to the club from Shankhouse.

As expected, Gillford posed the greatest threat in the opening stages with experienced brother Chris and Ian Grainger combining well. And the first goal for the Cumbrians after thirty minutes was a ‘route one’ affair. A long punt up field wasn’t dealt with by United’s central defenders and the when the ball fell kindly to Ian Grainger his squared pass was fired home by Mike Riding.

Gillford remained in charge after the break with the wind at their backs and after a couple of missed opportunities doubled their lead in the 65th minute. In a quick break down the right Riding crossed and Chris Grainger had time to pick his spot. David Redhead and Craig Daglish tried hard to keep Ponteland going but the difference in confidence between the two sides was perfectly clear.

With a couple of games in hand, Walker Central extended an unbeaten run to fourteen games but had to settle for a 1-1 draw with hosts Heddon. John Pearson’s goal for Heddon promised a rare and much-needed win but in the 75th minute Craig Scott set up Dean Walker to equalise for the Central.

Seaton Delaval hitched themselves back up into third spot with a 2-0 home win against Wark whose recent successful run was brought to an abrupt halt. After a scrappy goal-less opening half Steve Howes opened the scoring in 65 minutes and only two minutes later Delaval’s lead was doubled by ex-Whitley Bay ‘A’ striker Andy Hay.
In fourth place, Alnwick Town did well to share the spoils from their 2-2 draw with Carlisle City over at Sheepmount. After winning six of their eight previous games Alnwick fell behind to City’s first half opener scored by Scott Priest and things looked bleak when Priest bagged his second straight after the break. But the Northumbrians rallied and two replies in two minutes by Gary Patterson and regular marksman Ben Keenan saw them salvage a point.

Harraby Catholic Club have at least four games in hand compared to the other sides at the top of the table but their title challenge was dented by their 1-1 draw away to Murton. Harraby fielded a weakened team due to work commitments and a virus affecting their squad but still went close to opening the scoring through James Earl and then Roy Holliday.
Murton also had their moments and Harraby’s keeper Andrew Casson blocked Steve Turner’s angled drive when he was put through by Jarvis. But Harraby took the lead after 25 minutes when Mike Swift’s corner from the left deceived the home defence to creep into the net at the back post. 

The home side equalised after 77 minutes and, when a right wing corner was headed back across goal by Steve Turner, Andrew Upperton scored from ten yards out. And although Brett Swift was inches away from claiming a last minute winner for the Cumbrians a draw was probably the fairest result.

Ashington Colliers are level on points with Cramlington Town at the foot of the table although the Colliers have played two games less than their partners-in-trouble. Both lost to compound their relegation problems and Ashington were beaten 3-0 at home by Heaton Stannington. Heaton made it five wins in six outings with goals supplied by Kevin Carr (2) and Gary Yates.

Cramlington Town meanwhile suffered a fourth successive defeat away from home and lost 2-1 against Shankhouse. First half strikes by Shankhouse’s Paul Armstrong and Craig Johnson put their visitors on the back foot and, although David Atkinson reduced the deficit straight after the change-over, Cramlington continued to be thwarted in their push for a leveller.

Newcastle University moved up a couple of notches in the basement after drawing 1-1 with hosts Blyth Town. Chris Lisle opened the scoring for Blyth after 17 minutes after racing onto Danny Beresford’s lofted pass and curling his shot round the keeper. The Town’s slender lead survived until the final minute of the game when Marc Levine got the Students back on terms.

DIVISION ONE – RED ROW MAKE THEIR POINT
A weakened Wallington side still managed to beat Chopwell Officials 2-1 and clinch their sixth successive First Division win at their base at Scots Gap. Ashley McAlpine scored both of Wallington’s goals with Andy Smith hitting back with his tenth goal of the campaign for fourth-placed Chopwell.

After a midweek defeat at Whitley Bay, Red Row Welfare secured only their fourth league point by drawing 1-1 with hosts Berwick United who are only two places above them at the foot of the table. Mike Robinson’s opener for the Borderers was cancelled out by Ben Lavender’s reply for the Welfare.

The race for promotion in the First Division is involving about five teams. Cullercoats and Killingworth YPC face fixture backlogs to wade through while the other front runners are Stocksfield, Whitley Bay ‘A’ and late developers Percy Main.

Having played fewer games than any other First Division side, Cullercoats made it three wins on the trot by beating hosts Seaton Burn 3-0 but the score didn’t reflect the action in what was a close encounter. David Owen opened the visitors’ account but it took a Femi Akinbolu brace which included a penalty to take the heat off the Seasiders.
If Killingworth YPC manage to turn their spare games into points they can still figure in the promotion battle and they’ve won their last four home games. Latest victims Gateshead Rutherford are poor travellers and were beaten 2-1. Killy’s goals were supplied by Daniel Smee, with his eighth of the season, and Frankie Di Pietro while Neil Patterson replied for the losers.

Stocksfield still have a six-point lead at the head of the table but their hundred percent home record was ended and they were defeated 2-1 by Percy Main who slipped into third place. Only beaten once themselves in their last ten encounters, the Main battled hard for this result which precisely avenged their earlier loss at Purvis Park.

In a game in which six players were booked – one from Stocksfield and five for Percy Main – the Villagers were fired into a 54th minute lead as Joe Betts punished an error by the home keeper. The lead was doubled very promptly when Jonathan McEnaney scored from one of Pierre -Luc Coiffait’s trade mark long throws which was headed on by Kris Carr. Only a minute remained when Stocksfield replied and a terrific cross from Wayne Stewart was turned in by Phil Murray at the back post.

Whitley Bay ‘A’ had a fruitful week, winning on Wednesday night and again on Saturday. In midweek they beat lowly Red Row Welfare 3-1 at Hillheads with goals shared by Craig Smith, Darren Reay and Ian Lee. And they followed up by claiming another 3-1 verdict on their visit to Gosforth Bohemian Garnett three days later. This time Dean Porter (2) and Ian Lee supplied the goals with Darren Campbell replying for the Bohs.

After losing three games on the trot, Northbank shared the spoils in a 2-2 draw with visitors Newcastle East End who have won only once on their travels this term. Dave Glendinning and Mark Worrall netted for the Cumbrians and the Eastenders’ replies came from Gary Dixon and Dieu-Donne Lomana.

DIVISION TWO – SEASIDERS STUNG BY THE WELFARE
Leaders South Shields United and second-placed Amble United have cut themselves loose from the chasing pack in the Second Division and are becoming favourites for promotion. While South Shields were lying idle they were heartened by news of Amble United’s 1-0 defeat by hosts Stobswood Welfare. For the first time this term Amble failed to find the net and the Welfare harvested the points with an 82nd minute strike by Mark Sinclair and they are yet to be beaten on their own patch.

Wideopen & District in third spot are the nearest challengers to the two pace-setters but shed two more points as they featured in a goal-less draw with hosts Wallsend Boys’ Club. A teenage side performed well for the Boys’ Club and they almost claimed a late winner. In the dying seconds it took a tremendous save by the Wideopen keeper to deny Rob Nolan.
Before taking on Amble United in the Pin Point Recruitment Amateur Cup Final at Hillheads, Forest Hall were beaten 1-0 by Willington Quay Saints. After winning three home games on the trot the Hall were brought down to earth by Wesley Fidler’s winning strike for their visitors.

At the wrong end of the table Tynemouth United have become completely isolated on the bottom rung with only three points to their credit. And, in a bottom-of-the-table tussle with fellow-strugglers Amble FC, United were narrowly beaten 1-0 with Carl Sayer scoring the game’s only goal midway through the second half.

Lying second from bottom there was no luck either for Whitley Bay Town and they were beaten 2-0 at home by Hexham. This was only Hexham’s second away win and it was secured before half time. Scott Coates opened the scoring direct from a corner kick and the lead was doubled with a clever lob by Iain Strachan.

NFA Minor Cup finalists Wallsend Town had lost four home games on the trot prior to the visit of North Shields Athletic but Stephen Dodd bagged a brace to earn the Town a point from a 2-2 draw. Meanwhile, Newcastle BT suffered a fourth successive defeat and went down 4-2 against visitors Benfield Chemfica. Chemfica were two goals up after only five minutes thanks to Damon McGrattan and Mike Smith. Replies from BT’s Simon Mattick and Dave Thompson got them back in the game but a second half brace bagged by Andy Smith settled the issue in the visitors’ favour.

By Bill Gardner
Leaders Gillford Park and defending champions Walker Central in second spot are pulling away from their challengers in the Premier Division title race. Both won again and Gillford Park retained their one-point lead in pole position by beating visitors Heddon 2-1. Heddon, seeking only their second away win, had Daniel Dunn on target but a brace for the Park’s Steve Skinner proved conclusive.

Walker Central haven’t lost a league game at their Monkchester fortress this season and a 2-1 success against third-placed Alnwick Town left the record intact. The Central’s leading scorer Dave Thompson fired them in front from close range after John Campbell, sent clear by Martyn McGonigal, put in a perfect cross. The Central’s lead was short-lived however and there was a prompt reply from Alnwick’s Neil Catlow. Thompson’s second goal for Walker shortly after the interval proved decisive however and it was something special. From fully 35 yards and with his back to goal he shook off a defender before unleashing an unstoppable shot that left the Alnwick Town keeper rooted to the spot.

Walker still have two useful games in hand as they seek to retain the title in a race that could eventually involve only three teams. Harraby Catholic Club are set to come up on the rails but took a break yesterday, only to be beaten 1-0 at home by Penrith in their Cumberland Senior Cup semi-final. Mike Brown scored the tie’s decisive goal after 26 minutes.

Seaton Delaval in fifth place and Carlisle City in sixth spot clashed at Wheatridge Park and Delaval’s 3-1 defeat ended a four-match unbeaten run. Scott Priest gave Carlisle an early opener which was cancelled out by Steve Anderson for their hosts. But Delaval then had Stephen Robinson and Terry Goicochea sent off and City took full advantage with Carl Armstrong and Guiseppe Amato adding to their tally in the second half.

Only three points are now separating eight teams in the bottom half of the Premier Division table after Cramlington Town and Peterlee Town both won to ease the threat of relegation. And Cramlington lifted off the bottom rung by winning 2-0 at home to fellow-strugglers Ashington Colliers who are now propping up the rest.
Like Peterlee, Cramlington Town eased their predicament in the basement and a 2-0 home win against fellow-strugglers Ashington Colliers lifted them off the bottom rung. The Colliers were sunk by second half goals put away by Gary Day and Mark Holt with Day marking his debut with a 43rd minute goal following good work by Thomas North. Holt doubled the Town’s lead with his close range effort in the second half.

Cramlington’s management have strengthened their squad to try to ensure their Premier Division future and it looks likely to pay off. Richard Sweeney and Joe Eagan have been signed from Cramlington Cobras while last weekend’s scorer Gary Day along with Ben Davison and Mark Evans have come in from Blyth Town Under-19’s.

Having been without a league win since last October, Peterlee Town were delighted when Jonathan Monaghan’s goal on the hour earned them a 1-0 verdict away to Ponteland United. Unfortunately with full time approaching and a precious three points at stake the match reached flash point. United’s Ricky Fenwick retaliated to an alleged head butt and a skirmish ensued. Fenwick was quite rightly sent off for his retaliation and Peterlee's Gary Lacey also received his marching orders for the initial offence. The match had little time to settle down before the referee blew the final whistle and Ponteland have now endured seven matches without a win and are being drawn into the relegation dogfight.

Shankhouse won by the same narrow 1-0 margin to record only their second victory at Northburn. Newcastle University were on the receiving end and went down to Lee Gustard’s winner put away in the 53rd minute.

Murton scored first and last through Steve Turner at home to Heaton Stannington but still finished up losing 3-2. After Turner’s opener on the half hour mark Heaton hit back three times in a devastating five minute spell immediately preceding the interval. Strikes by Gary Yates, Chris Flynn and Kevin Carr left Murton with a mountain to climb.

DIVISION ONE – PERCY MAIN STILL CLIMBING
While leaders Stocksfield and Whitley Bay ‘A’ were lying idle, Chopwell Officials leapfrogged over the Bay into second spot in the First Division but, having played more games than any other team, they’re undoubtedly in a false position. And Chopwell picked up their latest three points by completing a league double away to Northbank. Their scorers in a 2-0 victory were Andrew Smith and Dave Fitzpatrick.

Having lost only once at Purvis Park this term, Percy Main have joined the leading group and avenged an earlier defeat by beating visitors Gateshead Rutherford 3-1. John McEnaney fired the Villagers into an early lead and in the second half Joe Betts and Pierre Luc Coiffait added to their tally before Dan Robinson’s late reply for Rutherford.

Killingworth YPC slipped up and went down to a single goal scored for hosts Newcastle East End by Paul Bright just after the break. And Cullercoats, with a daunting fixture backlog to wade through, were 1-0 victors away to Hebburn Reyrolle. Hebburn, who had three points deducted from their total last week, had keeper Stephen Taylor in outstanding form but he couldn’t keep out Peter Bradley’s 33rd minute winner for the Seasiders.

Wallington made it five home wins on the trot and did well to beat Gosforth Bohemian Garnett 5-4 in a real thriller despite the windy conditions. Harry Tulip bagged all four goals for the Bohemians but his feat was equalled by Wallington’s Ashley McAlpine. And Jack Palmer also found the net to just edge it for the Scots Gap outfit.

After losing their two previous league games Berwick United shared the spoils from a 2-2 draw with visitors and fellow-strugglers Seaton Burn. Dan Aitken and Simon Hargreaves were the Berwick marksmen with both of the Burn’s replies coming from Chris Baker. These two sides are equal on points immediately above wooden spoonists Red Row Welfare in the First Division basement but Berwick have played one game less than Seaton Burn.

DIVISION TWO – AMBLE UNITED AIMING FOR THE TOP
It’s looking extremely likely that the race for the Second Division title will become the exclusive preserve of current leaders South Shields United and second-placed Amble United. Amble are only three points behind their rivals at the moment but have two crucial games in hand to help in their bid to reclaim pole position.

Both of the front runners were successful again last Saturday and South Shields secured their sixth win on the trot by beating visitors Whitley Bay Town 4-0. Their scorers were Tijan Kah, Aaron Kah and Phil Enlund with their tally completed by an own goal gift. Meanwhile Amble United faced a tougher task but still won 2-1 away to Wideopen & District to end an eight-match unbeaten run by their third-placed hosts. Experienced pair Ian Common and Steve Gibbard claimed United’s goals and Gary Lamb replied from the spot for Wideopen.

Forest Hall are still aiming for possible promotion although they may be facing an uphill struggle. And the Hall added to their war chest by winning 6-0 at home to Newcastle BT who had been hammered 7-0 in the reverse fixture. Michael Reay banged in four of the Forest Hall goals this time with their final tally made up by an own goal and a good strike by Mark Knights.

The challenge of Wallsend Boys’ Club has been fading in recent weeks and they could only manage a 1-1 draw with visitors Benfield Chemfica. Rob Nolan scored his eighth league goal of the season for the Boys’ Club while Liam Naulls punished a defensive error for Chemfica’s counter.
Stobswood Welfare retained their unbeaten home record but were given a hard time before ending up level at 1-1 with bottom rung opponents Tynemouth United. Still seeking their first win, Tynemouth set out a defensive stall and did well to keep their hosts at bay. They had Chris Grieves opening the scoring after 85 minutes but Stobswood’s blushes were saved by David King’s equaliser in the dying seconds.

Amble FC are immediately above Tynemouth in the Second Division basement and they picked up some precious points by beating visitors Wallsend Town 2-0. Wallsend have only managed one win on their league travels this season and they performed badly once again. Two goals both scored in the second half by Adam Shanks gave Amble a rare but well-deserved victory.

By Bill Gardner
Ponteland United manager Jarrod Suddick was mourning the death of his father Alan last week after the ex-Newcastle and Blackpool favourite passed away following a long illness. Jarrod was understandably absent when Ponteland visited fellow-strugglers Ashington Colliers with assistant manager Steve Baxter taking over.

After 30 minutes Pont took the lead when a fine ball from Marc Dummett was side footed on the volley into the net by young Scott Fenwick. However five minutes before half time the Colliers were level and when a cross came in from the right Anthony Wright was on hand to give visiting keeper John Elliott no chance with his low drive.

Ashington were looking the stronger side after the change-over with Lee Scott going close to putting them in front and with half an hour to go Pont defender Dummett was injured and replaced by debutant Ricky Fenwick. Both teams were looking for the vital three points and Scott Fenwick thought he'd scored a second for Pont but his header from James Hall’s cross glanced off the top of the crossbar.

In the end a draw was a fair reflection of the match with no team having a player to stamp their authority on the game. Although Joe Dawson up front for Pont worked his socks off they lacked the presence which the absent Liam McIvor normally gives them and also missed the subtlety and creativity of Suddick in midfield.
While previous leaders Walker Central were lying idle, Gillford Park replaced the defending champions in pole position by beating visitors Newcastle University 3-2. Gillford however started on the back foot and trailed at the interval to goals scored for the Students by Dave Kewn and Ed Tizard. Steve Skinner finally got the Cumbrians off the mark and a brace for Matthew Wood secured the vital points.

Seaton Delaval overtook both Alnwick Town and Harraby Catholic Club to settle into third spot after a 2-1 success away to Peterlee Town completed a league double. Winning at home is proving difficult for the Newtowners and Steve Howes gave Delaval the lead. Jonathan Monaghan levelled just before half time for the hosts but in the 53rd minute John Fitzpatrick claimed Delaval’s winner.

Carlisle City’s hopes of joining the title-chasing group received a surprising setback and after being unbeaten in seven recent games they were hammered 5-1 by hosts Murton. Mark Smith and Steve Turner (2) fired Murton into a solid interval lead and Turner completed his hat-trick straight after the change-over. Danny Bulmer got City off the mark but the home side had the last word when Turner banged inv his fourth goal of the game.

Having picked up only a single point from their last four Premier Division appearances, Shankhouse stopped the rot by beating Heddon 1-0 at Bullocksteads. The two sides had featured in an earlier goal-less draw at Northburn and another stalemate looked likely until Lee Gustard slotted in his 76th minute winner for the visitors.

Heaton Stannington won 3-2 at home to Cramlington Town but their bottom rung opponents were rather unlucky. After Aaron Jewell and Adam Donaghey found the net for Heaton inside the first ten minutes, Cramlington staged a second half recovery. David Atkinson opened their account and David Dormand restored parity with his 80th minute spot kick. But in the dying seconds Joe Wear settled the issue in Heaton’s favour.

First Division outfit Cullercoats booked their place in this season’s Longhorn Hardware League Cup Final by beating semi-final visitors Hexham 3-2 with goals shared by Joe Elliott, Craig Deighton and Femi Akinbolu who bagged their 75th minute winner.

In the other semi-final Harraby Catholic Club comfortably beat cup hosts Wark 3-0. Lee Otway opened the scoring and an own goal gifted by Wark’s Stuart Brown doubled Harraby’s lead after the break. Marc Shiel completed the Cumbrians’ tally.

Meanwhile a semi-final tie in the Northern Alliance Charity Cup resulted in a 3-1 home victory for Newcastle East End over Premier Division opponents Blyth Town. The Eastenders’ marksmen were Gary Dixon, Dieu-Donne Lomana and Anthony Johnson with Lee Sparrow replying for the losers.

DIVISION ONE – WHITLEY FORCED TO TAKE STOCK
Stocksfield took another massive step towards clinching the championship in the first Division by beating visitors and nearest rivals Whitley Bay ‘A’ 4-0. Leading scorer Ben Pearson bagged himself a first half brace for the current league leaders who also had Sam Quilliam and Wayne Stewart (penalty) on target after the break.

Stocksfield retained their hundred percent home record and are now twelve points clear at the top with a game in hand while Whitley’s promotion hopes could be threatened by the likes of Killingworth YPC and Percy Main. These two met at Purvis Park last Saturday and the Main impressively pulled off a 4-1 victory.
Against a Killy outfit which had just won five games on the trot, the Villagers had Graeme Cole opening the scoring straight from the kick off and Joe Betts netted to double their lead before the interval. Killy’s substitute Liam Callaghan reduced the deficit on the hour mark and they were only killed off by Percy Main goals in 85 and 86 minutes scored by Jason Ritchie and Pierre Luc Coiffait.

Gateshead Rutherford claimed only their second win on their travels by beating Berwick United 2-1. Berwick’s Lee Walker equalised after David Hall had fired Rutherford in front but a second half strike by Robbie Frame allowed the visitors to clinch victory and complete a league double at the Borderers’ expense.

Chopwell Officials trailed at half time to Peter Southern’s opener for visitors Wallington but came back strongly after the break to finally seal a 3-1 victory. Dave Fitzpatrick, Rowland Lee and Andrew Smith were Chopwell’s second half marksmen to inflict a sixth successive away defeat on Wallington.

Gosforth Bohemian Garnett, only beaten once in their last eight league outings, have hauled themselves out of the basement and picked up three more useful points by winning 2-1 away to Northbank. Improving on their earlier 2-2 draw with the Cumbrians on Tyneside, the Bohs had Harry Tulip and Paul Hodge on target this time and Northbank could only muster a single reply from Dave Glendinning.

Seaton Burn are still embroiled in a battle for First Division survival and despite scoring through Stu Taylor and Rob McDonald they were beaten 4-2 at home by Hebburn Reyrolle who ended their own miserable run of seven straight defeats in away games.

Meanwhile, Red Row Welfare are in trouble and facing the displeasure of league officials. Isolated on the bottom rung of the First Division table, the Welfare failed to field a team to face Alnwick Town at home in a semi-final tie of the Northern Alliance Charity Cup.

DIVISION TWO – KAH BROTHERS KEEP LEADERS ON COURSE
The top four sides in the Second Division all won last Saturday and current leaders South Shields United along with second-placed Amble United continued their battle for supremacy.

South Shields United held onto pole position thanks to their seventh home win on the trot and beat North Shields Athletic 2-0. Aaron Kah got United off the mark five minutes before half time and only five minutes remained when Tijan Kah doubled the lead to make the points secure.

With two games in hand Amble United kept the heat on South Shields and have retained a hundred percent record on home turf. They beat visitors Willington Quay Saints 2-1 to keep the run going despite falling behind to Glen Gallon’s 18th minute opener for the Saints. Midway through the second half ex-Alnwick striker Ian Common got Amble back on terms and only fiver minutes later their winner was put away by Michael Dance.

Wideopen & District held onto third spot and their 1-0 win at home to Benfield Chemfica stretched an unbeaten run to eight games. Recent signing Liam Jubb scored Wideopen’s vital winner in the opening half but, despite watching his team complete a league double, manager Alan Booth admitted that Chemfica had looked the better team for long periods in the game.

In fourth place at present, Forest Hall are well off the pace for possible promotion and were lucky to beat lowly visitors Amble FC 1-0. There were only four minutes to spare when Michael Reay scored the game’s only goal to leave Amble still seeking their first away win of the campaign.

On purely mathematical terms Stobswood Welfare are still capable of gaining promotion, having played only twelve games so far. The Welfare are still in the bottom half of the table but signalled their continuing interest by beating visitors Wallsend Boys’ Club 2-1. Josh Hay’s eleventh goal of the season put Stobswood in front and, after Rob Nolan levelled with a tremendous volley for the Boys’ Club, Kerry Shotton restored the Welfare’s lead.

Whitley Bay Town secured only their second home win by beating Newcastle BT 3-1 and reviving hopes of getting clear of the basement. A headed goal for Eddie Garratt before the interval and a second on the hour, direct from a free kick by Richard Biggs, gave the Town a clear lead. Dave Thompson reduced the deficit by opening BT’s account but the Bay’s anxieties were eased when Garratt bagged his second goal in the 85th minute.

Still with no win to their credit, Tynemouth United remained isolated on the bottom run and were beaten 5-3 at home by Wallsend Town. Leading 2-1 at the interval, United’s scorers were Oye Olaoyelade (2) and Chris Grieves but they were stripped of their advantage. Wallsend built on Mark Brewis’s opener and completed their tally with further goals shared by Ryan Arnott, Stephen Dodd, Anthony Senegoga and Phil Brown.

By Bill Gardner

Heddon drew 3-3 with close neighbours Ponteland United at Bullocksteads in a meeting of two Premier Division sides which seem to have lost the winning habit. But United could feel aggrieved at not gaining three points after a battling second half performance.

After only five minutes Pont were stung when a long range wind-assisted shot from home midfielder Daniel Hall flew into the top corner of the net giving Michael Havelock no chance. Heddon were having the better of the early exchanges stages but Richard Kent nearly levelled the score after good interplay between Liam McIvor and James Hall, only to be ruled offside.

Pont did manage to equalise in the 42nd minute when David Redhead scored after a cross from Marc Dummett wasn’t cleared. But just before half time Heddon were put in front again and when Daniel Hall’s long range free kick glanced off Glen Ford's head the ball flashed into the net for an own goal.

James Hall restored parity for Ponteland after 72 minutes by firing home from six yards and only four minutes later they went ahead. When Liam McIvor was hauled down in the box, Dummett stepped up to confidently score from the spot. But with the points apparently in the bag, United were caught out with only five minutes to go. Daniel Hall claimed his second goal of the game for Heddon to salvage a point when his 20-yard drive was too good for Pont keeper Havelock.

The top six sides in the Premier Division all won to preserve the status quo in the title race and Walker Central stayed two points clear in pole position by extending their unbeaten run to twelve games. The Central won 3-1 against bottom rung hosts Cramlington Town and, after the Town’s David Dormand had cancelled out Ian Dunn’s early opener for the league leaders, John Campbell bagged a brace for the visitors.

Second-placed Gillford Park followed up a midweek win at Alnwick by beating Heaton Stannington 2-0 at Grounsell Park. Yet to be beaten on their travels, the Park had Tyran Taylor and Ian Grainger scoring in each half to secure the points.

In third place Alnwick Town bounced back quickly after their midweek upset and made it five wins out of six recent games by beating struggling visitors Peterlee Town 2-1. Ben Keenan claimed both of Alnwick’s goals before a Craig Harbert spot kick got the Newtowners off the mark.

Harraby Catholic Club have games in hand of all the other teams at the top of the table and could upset a few ambitions on the run in. They completed a league double with a 3-0 victory at home to Newcastle University. Lee Otway scored first and last for the Cumbrians whose tally was completed by Roy Holliday.

Seaton Delaval also clinched a league double in hammering Murton 7-2 at Wheatridge Park. Delaval were four goals to the good at the interval and their goals in an impressive performance were supplied by Craig Johnson (hat-trick), Nick Evans, Gary Forbes, Stephen Howes and Connell Reed. Karl Garside replied for Murton who were also presented with an own goal by their hosts.

Since Stephen Bellas took over as manager Carlisle City have kept on improving and they avenged an earlier defeat in Cumbria by beating Shankhouse 1-0 at Northburn. Scott Priest scored City’s 57th minute winner to leave Shankhouse still seeking only their second home win of the campaign.

Two Northern Alliance sides – Blyth Town and Percy Main – will be going head to head in this season’s Northumberland Senior Bowl Final after seeing off the challenges of league colleagues in Saturday’s semi-final ties.

Blyth Town, who lifted the trophy last term, stayed on course for a repeat by beating cup visitors Whitley Bay ‘A’ 2-0. They went ahead after 33 minutes when Mark Waugh opened their account and their lead was doubled in the 68th minute when Danny Beresford netted from close range.

The cup holders’ opponents in this season’s final will be Percy Main who have previously picked up this silverware way back in 1978 and then more recently in 2004. The Villagers made the cut this time with a 2-1 victory away to their Premier Division opponents Ashington Colliers.

Percy Main opened the scoring through Jason Ritchie after half an hour but on the hour Richie Brown levelled for Ashington. The Main’s lead was quickly restored however and, when a long clearance from keeper Rob Rodgerson was cleverly helped on by Jon McEnaney, Joe Betts ran on to guide the ball past Tewart in the home goal.

In another cup clash, in the Longhorn Hardware League Cup, goals for Marc Nixon, Mark Elliott and Jamie Crichton gave Wark a 3-2 home win against Stobswood Welfare. And Wark will now be entertaining Harraby Catholic Club in this weekend’s semi-finals.



DIVISION ONE – STOCKSFIELD HAVE A STRONGHOLD

Having played a game less than their nearest challengers Whitley Bay ‘A’, Stocksfield are nine points clear at the head of the First Division table and favourites for the title and promotion. They’ve won all six of their home games to date and made Newcastle East End their latest victims. The East Enders however proved to be obstinate opponents and were only beaten 1-0. The game’s only goal was scored only two minutes after the kick off when Cairns Kettles passed to Phil Murray whose chip into the box was fired home by Ben Pearson to take his personal tally of league goals to fifteen.

Whitley Bay ‘A’ were on county cup duty but third-placed Killingworth YPC and Chopwell Officials in fourth spot both picked up maximum points. And Killy were impressive in their 6-1 home win against a Northbank side which had previously been enjoying a successful spell. The Killingworth goals to secure their fifth successive league win were sup[plied by Kevin Westphal (2), Andrew Edmundsen, Dan Smee, Callum Colback and Anthony Burns. And Killy’s Simon Patterson put the ball into his own net to present the Cumbrian visitors with their single counter.

After losing two games on the trot Chopwell were happy with their narrow 2-1 victory away to bottom rung outfit Red Row Welfare. Goals for Andrew Smith and Lee Best completed a league double for the visitors. Bradley Smith replied for the Welfare but they still have no home points to their credit.

Involvement in cup competitions has affected the progress of Cullercoats on the domestic front but the Seasiders could resurrect their promotion hopes by winning their games in hand. They made a promising start by beating visitors Gateshead Rutherford 4-2. Femi Akinbolu completed his hat-trick for the winners whose other scorer was Rob Watson. Ross Taylor and Robbie Frame replied for the losers.

Wallington have won their last four games at Scots Gap and they beat poor travellers Hebburn Reyrolle 3-1 to keep the run going. Jack Palmer bagged a brace for Wallington who also had Ashley McAlpine on target for his eleventh league goal of the campaign. Mark Haire was Hebburn’s only marksman as they slumped to their seventh successive defeat away from home.

Seaton Burn are still trying to escape from the First Division basement but are seeking their first win on home turf. The miserable run continued and they were beaten 3-1 by their latest visitors Gosforth Bohemian Garnett. Goals by Harry Tulip (2) and John McDonald gave the Bohemians only their second away win and the Burn’s single reply came from Ian Armstrong.



DIVISION TWO – SHIELDSMEN STAY ON TOP

Current leaders South Shields United and second-placed Amble United are continuing to battle for supremacy in the Second Division. Both won again last weekend and South Shields retained their three-point lead by beating powerful visitors Forest Hall 2-0. Second half goals for Mark Davey and Tijan Kah allowed United to clinch a league double while ending Forest Hall’s unbeaten record in away games.

Amble United could yet regain pole position by using their two games in hand successfully and they lived up to their free-scoring reputation with a 6-0 victory away to lowly Whitley Bay Town. Darren Riddell and second half substitute Steve Gibbard bagged a brace each for Amble whose other marksmen were Chris Moffitt and Shaun Black.

In third spot Wideopen & District are off the pace a little as far as the Second Division title is concerned but possible promotion is still worth fighting for. And the Wideopen lads extended an unbeaten run to seven games with their 4-0 victory away to Newcastle BT. Only Sean Hay’s opener separated the sides at half time but after the break Hay bagged his second goal before his colleagues Liam McEvoy and Liam Jubb also found the net.

North Shields Athletic remained in fourth place but slipped up badly and were surprisingly beaten 4-2 by their lowly hosts Amble FC. This was only Amble’s second win of this campaign and was secured with goals shared by Carl Sayer, Shaun Jobson, Ben Davidson and Adam Shanks. Alan Armstrong and Dan Walton replied for a disappointed North Shields side.

Wallsend Boys’ Club suffered only their second defeat at home and went down 4-2 against Willington Quay Saints who simultaneously claimed only their second away win. Glen Gallon’s two goals for the Saints were cancelled out by replies from Craig Williamson and Stephen Forster for the Boys’ Club and it was all square at 2-2 with seven minutes to go. But Mark Henderson restored Willington’s lead and John Foggett scored their fourth goal with a thundering 30-yard effort.

Despite booking themselves an appearance in this season’s Northumberland Minor Cup Final, Wallsend Town have struggled in the league and their 2-1 defeat by visitors Benfield Chemfica was their ninth on the trot in the Second Division. Liam Naulls and Mark Fenwick netted to secure the points for Chemfica and Paul McCutcheon claimed Wallsend’s token reply.

With only two points to date Tynemouth United are isolated on the bottom rung and allowed visitors Hexham to celebrate a fist win on their travels. Hexham passed the milestone by beating their hosts 2-0 thanks to first half strikes by Stephen Brown and Iain Strachan.

By Bill Gardner
Walker Central made a quarter-final exit from the Northumberland Senior Cup after failing to find the net for the first time this season. The Central were soundly beaten 4-0 at home by Northern League neighbours Newcastle Benfield whose goals were supplied by Stephen Young (2), Michael Chilton and Adam Scope.

Walker, having previously lost interest in this season’s League Cup and Challenge Cup competitions, are now left to concentrate on the Premier Division title which they claimed last term. This season however a top two finish could be even more crucial with both the Central and their Cumbrian colleagues Gillford Park interested in stepping up to the Second Division of the Northern League.

While Walker were otherwise engaged, their closest challengers Gillford Park only managed a 1-1 draw away to Seaton Delaval and were lucky to salvage a point. The Cumbrians just managed to preserve their unbeaten away record and trailed to Delaval’s early opener scored by Steve Howes until Mike Riding snatched a last minute equaliser. And Delaval manager Nick Gray must be sick of watching his team concede vital goals in the dying minutes of their matches; it’s happened on many recent occasions.

Alnwick Town remained in third place after their 2-0 victory away to Ponteland United. The Town’s fourth league win on the trot was achieved with goals in each half for Gary Bailes and Mark Cockburn.

Bailes headed home from an inswinging corner from Scott McMullen in the 15th minute but there was a long wait for Cockburn’s goal scored after 89 minutes.
In the meantime Ponteland were held at bay by a competent Alnwick defence and their chances of a recovery dwindled after Glen Ford was sent off for a rash challenge and striker Liam McIvor was injured. And Pont are now fourth from bottom and facing a battle for their Premier Division future.
With games in hand, Harraby Catholic Club are posing a threat to the current pace-setters and they leapfrogged over Seaton Delaval into fourth spot. They did the trick by beating visitors Shankhouse 1-0 but their opponents deserved to share of the spoils.

Shankhouse were stronger than their hosts in the first half with Darren Naylor heading wide at the back post after 20 minutes and Lee Gustard picking up a loose ball in the area only to see home keeper Aaron Taylor blocking his close range effort. Then in another Shankhouse raid Graeme Smith’s 25-yard free kick hit the inside of the post and somehow shot across the goal to be eventually cleared.

It didn’t look as though either side would secure victory but Matthew Blake scored Harraby’s winner with only seconds to spare. In stoppage time Harraby were awarded a free kick just inside the visitors’ half and close to the touchline. Blake’s delivery into the 'box' saw both attackers & defenders unable to get a touch but the ball bounced and then skidded past the stranded Shankhouse keeper David Dent to give the home side a very fortunate winner.

After three home wins on the trot Carlisle City had to settle for a 2-2 draw with lowly visitors Ashington Colliers who were fired into a two-goal interval lead by Paul Smith and Patrick Cockburn. City were presented with an own goal opener by visiting defender Gareth Rees and then equalised through Ollie Driver.

Cramlington Town and Peterlee Town, Ashington’s fellow-strugglers in the Premier Division basement, didn’t fare quite as well. Cramlington were well beaten 5-2 by up-and-coming hosts Wark whose goals were put away by Marc Nixon (2), Martin Hardy, Phil Thompson and Jamie Peel. Iain Downie and David Dormand replied but Cramlington remained on the bottom rung.

Peterlee Town, just above Cramlington at the foot of the table and without a win since last October, were beaten 2-1 by hosts Heaton Stannington. Heaton had Joe Wear and Lawrence McKenna finding the net before John Pyle claimed a late consolation goal for the Newtowners.

Heddon drew 2-2 with Blyth Town at Bullocksteads where Chris Lisle bagged a brace for Blyth and Heddon responded with strikes by Craig Horsfall and John Dunn. And goals for Will Deledicq (2), Dave Kewn and Edwin Tizard gave Newcastle University a vital 4-1 victory over visitors Murton to ease their relegation worries. Steve Turner was Murton’s only scorer.

DIVISION ONE – STOCKSFIELD END PERCY MAIN’S RECORD
Stocksfield are now nine points clear of nearest rivals Whitley Bay ‘A’ and with a game in hand at the head of the First Division table. Both of these pace-setters collected maximum points last Saturday but each is aware of the challenge of Killingworth YPC in the battle for promotion.

Leaders Stocksfield, beaten only once this term, ended the unbeaten home record of fourth-placed Percy Main with a 2-1 victory at Purvis Park. After only seven minutes the Main went ahead, presented with an own goal opener as a good corner kick from Pierre - Luc Coiffait was fumbled into his own net by Stocksfield keeper Shaun Sagar.

But only four minutes later the visitors were back on equal terms as Ben Pearson, after combining well with his colleague Phil Murray, rounded the home keeper to poke the ball in from close range. Then, two minutes before the break, Pearson netted again for what turned out to be Stocksfield’s winner. This time he went on a solo run, beating several defenders before his deflected effort crossed the line.

After winning only one of their five previous games Whitley Bay ‘A’ comfortably beat Seaton Burn 4-1 to leave their hosts still seeking a first home win. The Bay, whose marksmen were Mark Fenwick, Jamie Lyndon, Gavin Hattrick and Ian Lee, were three up at the interval and the Burn’s single reply came from Stuart Taylor.
Killingworth YPC have a clutch of games in hand to assist their promotion hopes. They recorded their fourth win on the trot and completed a league double by beating visitors Chopwell Officials 2-1. David Smee bagged a first half brace for Killy and they defended well after a 70th minute reply from Chopwell substitute Alan Rennison trimmed their lead.

Northbank and Gateshead Rutherford maintained their mid-table status by securing maximum points in their respective home games and Northbank hammered Berwick United 4-0 with goals shared by Louis Gallacher, Simon Elston, Mark Graham and Jonathan Mason. Their defeat ended a recent run of successes for the Borderers.

Gateshead Rutherford made it five home wins on the trot at the expense of strugglers Red Row Welfare who were soundly beaten 3-0. With only one league win to their credit the Welfare trailed to two Dan Robinson goals at the interval and conceded a third after 88 minutes scored by Robbie Frame.

Wallington still have relegation worries following their 4-0 defeat away to Newcastle East End whose marksmen were Dieu-Donne Lomana (2), Matthew Young and Anthony Studholme. But Hebburn Reyrolle ended a spell of seven games without a win and in fortuitous circumstances beat visitors Gosforth Bohemian Garnett 1-0. The only goal of a scrappy encounter was put into his own net by a Gosforth defender in stoppage time at the end of the first half.

DIVISION TWO – LEADERS HUMBLED BY THE HALL
Amble United, three points behind Second Division leaders South Shields United but with a game in hand, slipped up at Forest Hall and were beaten 2-1 by their hosts. The Seasiders looked likely to extend an unbeaten run into double figures when they were fired into an early lead by Chris Moffitt. But they were stopped in their tracks and, after Michael Reay equalised, Forest Hall’s winner was put away by Tom Carver.

Helped by this unexpected result, South Shields United stayed in pole position and were happy with their 2-1 victory away to third-placed North Shields Athletic. David Armstrong was on the mark for a North Shields side looking for a seventh successive home win but they were to be disappointed. Tijan Kah got South Shields back on terms and the same player scored his second to wrap up the points for the current league leaders.

Wideopen & District and Wallsend Boys’ Club both have a lot to do if they are to revive their promotion prospects and the Boys’ Club had to be disappointed by their goal-less draw away to lowly Whitley Bay Town. Wideopen however extended their unbeaten streak to six games by comfortably beating visitors Amble FC 3-0. Having failed to win a single game away from home so far, Amble are still stuck in the basement. And Wideopen showed no mercy as they added three more points to their total with goals claimed by Gary Lamb (2) and new signing Liam Jubb who scored on his debut.

Willington Quay Saints are still in mid-table but have only been beaten once at home in this campaign. The Saints improved on their earlier 3-3 draw with visitors Benfield Chemfica by winning 2-1 this time. Stephen King’s opener gave the Saints a half time lead but it was cancelled out after 68 minutes by Jimmy Hawkes for the visitors. And only two minutes later Willington Quay’s winner was headed home by John Foggett.

Stobswood Welfare were beaten 1-0 by Mark Gibson’s vital goal for hosts Hexham while Tynemouth United remained stuck on the bottom rung despite their 2-2 draw at home to Newcastle BT. All four goals were scored in the opening half with Dave Thompson bagging a brace for BT and Chris Grieves and Oye Olaoyelade on the mark for Tynemouth who secured only their second point of the season.

Wallsend Town may have struggled in the Second Division this term but last weekend booked their place in the final of the Ideal Stelrad Northumberland FA Minor Cup by beating semi-final hosts Lowick United 1-0. The Town’s cup final opponents will be Blakelaw Crofters Lodge who won 2-0 to end the hopes of Northern Alliance First Division outfit Cullercoats.

By Bill Gardner
While their closest rivals including second-placed Gillford Park were on cup duty, Walker Central went six points clear at the head of the Premier Division. The Central beat visitors Ponteland United 3-2 to complete a league double, maintain their unbeaten home record and clock up their seventh league win on the trot. But it wasn’t easy!

The players wore black armbands and held a minute’s silence before the game as a mark of respect for former long serving Northern Alliance League Secretary John McLackland who sadly collapsed and died suddenly on 20th February.

It was Walker who took the lead from the penalty spot when United’s Ford pulled John Campbell’s shirt and Campbell himself took the successful spot kick. Walker were looking strong at this stage but Pont stuck to their task and equalised after 38 minutes. Sean Willis’s cross found Liam, McIvor at the near post and his short pass gave Scott Fenwick the chance to tap the ball home. And only two minutes later Ponteland were in front. Suddick chipped the ball over the home defence to the unmarked Andrew Davidson who smashed an unstoppable volley into the top corner.

Clearly Walker were unsettled at this juncture and trailed 2-1 at half time. But Pont’s lead was short lived and only four minutes into the second half Campbell equalised with his second goal, scored from a narrow angle. And the Central snatched a winner ten minutes from the end courtesy of Campbell again as he punished poor defending to complete his hat-trick.

The rest of the games involved teams desperate for points in the basement and Cramlington Town, now on the bottom rung, were beaten 2-1 by hosts Carlisle City who scored first and last through Steve Bell and Jamie Yallop. Cramlington’s second half scorer was Thomas North.

Peterlee Town are only a point better off than Cramlington and their miserable run continued as they were beaten 3-0 at home by Wark. Phil Thompson scored all three goals in the second half for Wark to hoist them into a mid-table slot.

Ashington Colliers and Newcastle University are both involved in a battle against relegation but neither had any joy. The Colliers lost 2-1 away to Heaton Stannington who had three points deducted last week. Heaton’s marksmen were Adam Donaghey and Gary Yates who bagged their late winner after David Brown had levelled for Ashington. Meanwhile, Newcastle University came off second best in their bottom of the table clash at Murton. The Students went down 1-0 to Paul Wintrip’s 62nd minute goal for their hosts.

In their semi-final tie away to Gillford Park in the Bosch Power Tools Challenge Cup, Blyth Town were beaten 4-2 in extra time. Steve Skinner bagged a first half brace for the Park but replies from Blyth’s Aaron Hicken and Mark Waugh took the game into extra time. Chris Grainger netted to put the Cumbrians in front before Skinner completed his hat-trick and Gillford will be meeting Heddon in this season’s final.

There were a few shocks in the Longhorn Hardware League Cup and in a delayed third round tie Stobswood Welfare beat Premier Division visitors Heddon 2-1. After trailing to Max Turner’s opener for Heddon, the Welfare hit back through Wayne Gair and Josh Hay to clinch an unexpected victory.

More surprises emerged in the League Cup’s quarter-finals and despite both being at home Seaton Delaval and Shankhouse lost out to their respective First and Second Division opponents. Cullercoats beat Delaval 3-2 after trailing to goals by Steve Howes and Stephen Anderson for their hosts. Alex Burnett reduced the deficit for the visitors before Femi Akinbolu levelled in the 90th minute. Then in stoppage time Craig Deighton scored the Cullercoats winner.

Hexham won 2-1 to dump Shankhouse out of the cup and quickly responded to Craig Johnson’s opener for their hosts. They forced Shankhouse’s defender Graeme Smith into conceding an own goal and with only three minutes top spare Tony Lancaster claimed Hexham’s vital winner.

Harraby Catholic Club however made no mistake in their quarter-final at home to First Division leaders Stocksfield. They won 4-1 with goals shared by Mike Swift, Roy Holliday, Lee Otway and James Earl after Sandy Tordoff had given Stocksfield an early lead.

DIVISION ONE – JOY FOR TROUBLED BERWICK
In the First Division lowly Berwick United were celebrating after securing their first away points of the season. The Borderers did the trick with a 1-0 victory at Chopwell to give themselves some breathing space in the basement. The points were only secured late in the game but that didn’t matter to Berwick whose vital winner was snatched in the 88th minute by Sean Phillips.

Still with no home points to their credit, Red Row Welfare stayed on the bottom rung after a 2-0 defeat by visitors Seaton Burn whose marksmen were Stuart Taylor and Mark Braddick. And Gosforth Bohemian Garnett are just above Red Row in the basement but eased the pressure by winning 1-0 at home to Newcastle East End. Paul Menton scored Gosforth’s winner only five minutes into the game.

In mid-table, Gateshead Rutherford have won their last four games on home turf and they made Wallington their latest victims. Wallington produced a rather poor performance and couldn’t argue about losing 2-1. Their single goal was a last minute disputed penalty put away by Ashley McAlpine after Dan Robinson and Graeme Troughton had netted for Rutherford after the break.

The top two sides in the First Division – Stocksfield and Whitley Bay ‘A’ – were both absent from league duty and Percy Main, unbeaten in their last six outings, leapfrogged over Chopwell Officials to claim third spot.

The Main won 4-1 to complete a league double against Northbank over in Carlisle and Sean Potts gave them an early opener from Pierre Coiffait’s cross in a move initiated by Graeme Cole. And almost immediately the Villagers’ lead was doubled by Tony Browell who latched onto Jason Ritchie’s long free kick to score from close range.

Jonathan McEnaney scored Percy Main’s third goal after only 20 minutes to rock the Cumbrians when Ritchie again supplied the ammunition and the visitors’ tally was completed by Ritchie who scored from the spot after Coiffiat was up-ended in the area. Simon Elston claimed Northbank’s consolation goal.

Killingworth YPC claimed their third win on the trot in beating visitors Hebburn Reyrolle 4-3 with goals by Daniel Smee (2), Kevin Grahamslaw and second half substitute Peter Mulholland. Killy also presented an own goal gift to Reyrolle who had Chris Morris and Dave Jeffers on target as they suffered their sixth successive defeat away from home.

DIVISION TWO – AMBLE UNITED RECLAIM POLE POSITION
South Shields United were lying idle in the Second Division and surrendered pole position to Amble United who beat Wallsend Town 4-2 to protect their hundred percent home record. United’s scorers were Greg Dance (2), Steve Gibbard and Bradley Wake. Steve Richardson and Paul McCutcheon replied for the Tynesiders who are yet to earn a first league point on their travels.

Fourth-placed Wallsend Boys’ Club may also be in a false position, having completed more games than any other side in the Second Division. After drawing four home games on the trot the Boys’ Club got back on track by clinching a 3-0 verdict at the expense of strugglers Amble Town. Goals shared by Rob Nolan, Andy McBride and Frazer Henderson completed a league double for the hosts.

In third place, North Shields Athletic have played more games than the two teams above them but they haven’t given up on promotion. And the Athletic clinched a rare away win by beating Benfield Chemfica 3-0 with goals supplied by Dave Armstrong (2) and Ronnie Kay. The result ended Chemfica’s three-match winning streak.

Tynemouth United, the only team below Amble in the basement, stayed glued to the bottom rung and without a single league win in this campaign. They were beaten again – 2-0 by hosts Wideopen & District – and were sunk by goals for Wideopen’s Gary Lamb and Jamie Reeves. Lamb remained the Division’s top scorer with 19 league goals to his credit so far.

After losing only once in their eight previous outings Forest Hall were surprisingly beaten 2-0 at home by Whitley Bay Town who secured their first away points in the process. Strikes by Garry Milburn and Mick Welford gave the Bay some hope of dragging themselves out of the basement.

Willington Quay Saints suffered their first defeat at home this season in going down 3-2 against Newcastle BT. The BT lads had been the victims of travel sickness prior to this encounter but beat their hosts for the second time this term with goals shared by Dave Thompson, Anthony Bruce and Colin Galbraith. The Saints had been fired in front twice by Andy Duffield and then Glen Johnson but were stunned by Galbraith’s 85th minute match-winner.

By Bill Gardner
On a weekend when there was a profusion of goals the top of the table clash between Harraby Catholic Club and current Premier Division leaders Walker Central over in Carlisle proved to be the opposite. The game was settled in Walker’s favour by the only goal scored just eight minutes after the kick off.

Both teams had to contend with a strong cross wind and Walker opened the scoring when their first corner was only half cleared. Ian Mills hit a low ground shot from 18 yards through a crowded area to beat the unsighted home keeper Aaron Taylor. Although Harraby’s Brett Swift managed to knock the ball up against the underside of the crossbar from his position on the line and Taylor claimed the loose ball the assistant referee, after appearing to wave play on, then signalled that the ball had crossed the line. And Walker held on grimly to their slender advantage to secure their sixth league win on the trot.

The result left Walker with a six-point lead at the head of the Premier Division table while Harraby, champions a couple of seasons ago, stayed in fifth spot but with several games in hand at their disposal.

Harraby’s neighbours Gillford Park also have useful games in hand and hoisted themselves up into second spot by winning 2-0 away to Murton who remained on the bottom rung. The Park, yet to be beaten on their travels, secured the points with second half goals put away by Darren Addison who scored just after the interval and Steve Skinner who netted with a minute to spare.

Shankhouse are currently in sixth place but have played more games than any other team in the Premier Division and results have been far from ideal. They suffered another setback in going down 4-2 against Newcastle University at Cochrane Park. The Students had taken only two points from their previous five outings but gave themselves hope of getting clear of the basement with strikes by Will Deledicq, Oliver Haywood, Edwin Tizard and Ben Burt.

Carlisle City’s new manager Stephen Bellas has won his first two games in charge and City beat Peterlee Town 6-4 at Sheepmount. The Newtowners seemed on course for a rare success when early goals for Alan Smith, Greg O’Brien and Steve Monaghan put them well clear.

Carlisle finally responded with replies from Ollie Driver (2) and Carl Armstrong restoring parity but in the 44th minute Peterlee were nudged in front again by Anthony Cook. After the break City came back again to kill off their visitors with Driver scoring his second penalty of the game to complete his hat-trick and Jamie Yallop and Jamie Heath also on target.

On a day of high scores Wark claimed maximum points to ease their relegation worries and in a real cliff-hanger they beat visiting Ponteland United 6-5. An own goal by United’s Marc Dummett allowed Wark to edge it after they had John Famelton, Marc Nixon (hat-trick) and Jamie Pell on target. Dean Gate, James Hall, Jarrod Suddick, Andrew Davidson and Richard Kent shared the goals for unlucky Ponteland.

There was also an abundance of goals in a third round tie of the Longhorn Hardware League Cup with hosts Heaton Stannington drawing 6-6 with First Division leaders Stocksfield after extra time. Heaton’s marksmen were Gary Yates (2), Paul Hodgson, Kevin Carr, Joe Wear and Lawrence McKenna. Stocksfield, who had Phil Murray and Ben Pearson each claiming a hat-trick, emerged as 7-6 victors in the resulting penalty shoot out.

Meanwhile Heddon booked themselves a place in this season’s Bosch Power Tools Challenge Cup Final by beating Seaton Delaval 3-2 in their semi-final at Bullocksteads. Goals for Joe Kerry and Craig Horsfall gave Heddon an early advantage but their keeper Alex Curran was injured and midfielder John Pearson had to deputise. Delaval took advantage and replied through Craig Johnson and Stephen Anderson straight after the interval. But with 75 minutes on the clock David Edwardson claimed Heddon’s winner and they will be meeting either Gillford Park or Blyth Town in the forthcoming final.

DIVISION ONE – CHOP FOR THE BURN
In the First Division, Gosforth Bohemian Garnett and Killingworth YPC have only played eleven and nine league games respectively and postponement of their game at Benson Park wasn’t exactly welcomed. And in an already restricted programme only three games went ahead.

Seaton Burn should have been hosting Chopwell Officials but the game had to be reversed and the move wasn’t a fortunate one for the Burn who are still facing a relegation battle. Chopwell comfortably beat them 3-0 to hoist themselves into third place although they’ve played more games than all the teams at the top of the table. Hat-trick hero Stuart Rook claimed all their goals.

The other two games down for decision were both draws and Newcastle East End shared the spoils from a 4-4 draw with visitors Gateshead Rutherford. The Eastenders’ scorers were Anthony Studholme (2), Craig Crosby and Shaun Douglas with strikes by Joe Hindmarch, Robbie Frame, Stephen Tumelty and Ross Taylor maintaining parity for Rutherford.

After losing five games on the trot Hebburn Reyrolle were happy with their 1-1 draw at home to an improving Northbank outfit. Andrew Sanko fired the Cumbrians in front on the half hour mark and Mark Haire equalised for Reyrolle six minutes into the second half.

DIVISION TWO – SHIELDSMEN STAY IN POLE POSITION
While second-placed Amble United were on cup duty, South Shields United seized the opportunity to strengthen their position as leaders in the Second Division. They won 1-0 away to Hexham who suffered again from poor finishing in front of goal. South Shields, beaten only once on their travels this season, had substitute Tijan Kah scoring their vital winner seven minutes from the end.

North Shields Athletic have been coming up on the rails and slipped into third spot after beating visitors Stobswood Welfare 2-0. The result ended the Welfare’s seven-match unbeaten run and gave the Athletic their sixth home win on the trot. It was achieved with early and late goals tucked away by Glen Churchman and Martin Cole.

Having played more league games than many of their Second Division colleagues, Wallsend Boys’ Club are occupying fourth spot and improved on their earlier goal-less draw with bottom rung hosts Tynemouth United. With no win yet and no home points to their credit, Tynemouth fought hard and had Chris Grieves (2) and Ben Griffiths on target but still went down 5-3. Being watched by several scouts at present, Rob Nolan was a four-goal hero for the Boys’ Club. And their other goal was something special as Joe Stewart blasted in his long-range free kick.

Whitley Bay Town are still struggling in the basement after winning only once in the league this term but a point from their 2-2 draw with out-of-sorts visitors Wideopen & District was welcome. Having lost their winning habit, Wideopen scored first and last through Sean Hay and Shan Lowery who netted direct from a 35-yard free kick. In the interim Edmund Garratt opened the Bay’s account with a diving header – his first goal for the club – and Ian Irvin also netted for the home side.

Forest Hall ended Benfield Chemfica’s recent good run of form and booked themselves a place in next month’s Pin Point Recruitment Amateur Cup Final. Before this semi-final at Forest Hall, Chemfica had won four of their last five games but were beaten 2-1 by their hosts. Michael Reay claimed both of the Forest’s goals in the 5th and 67th minutes and his second was vital following Joe Bann’s tenth minute leveller for Chemfica from Mark Fenwick’s cross.

Forest Hall’s cup final opponents will be Amble United who also won 2-1 in their semi-final at home to neighbours Amble Town. United completed a league and cup derby double with first half goals for Ross Gair in two minutes and Darren Riddell on the half hour. They took their foot off the pedal and Shaun Jobson’s 75th minute free kick reduced the deficit for the visitors who were flattered by the final score-line.

COUNTY CUP ACTION
Six sides from the Northern Alliance have taken steps nearer to success in County Cup competitions. In the Northumberland Senior Benevolent Bowl last weekend Whitley Bay ‘A’, Ashington Colliers, Blyth Town and Percy Main all cleared their respective quarter-final hurdles at the expense of league colleagues.

Whitley Bay, whose big brothers at Hillheads are doing nicely in the FA Vase, made progress in the Bowl by winning 2-0 away to Alnwick Town whop went down to goals in each half scored by Dean Porter and Mark Fenwick. And Ashington Colliers had David Brown, Stephen Darling and Glen Bolton on target in their 3-2 home win against Wallington at the last eight stage.

Blyth Town made the cut by comprehensively beating cup hosts Berwick United 6-1 with goals shared by Lee Sparrow, Mark Waugh, Chris Taylor, Danny Beresford, Jonathan Mann and keeper Scott Earle (penalty). Meanwhile Percy Main ended the cup hopes of quarter-final hosts Cramlington Town by beating their Premier Division opponents 2-1. David Dormand scored from the spot to give Cramlington an interval lead but Sean Potts got the Main back on terms and Jason Ritchie bagged their winner.

The semi-final draw in the NFA Senior Bowl now reads Ashington Colliers v Percy Main and Blyth Town v Whitley Bay ‘A’ and there were more successes in the Ideal Stelrad Northumberland Minor Cup. Cullercoats won 4-1 at home to Killingworth YPC Town thanks to strikes by Ben Gardner, Femi Akinbolu, Craig Deighton and Andy McColl and in an all-Northern Alliance clash Newcastle BT were beaten 5-4 at home by Wallsend Town. And the Minor Cup semi-final pairings after last weekend’s results are Cullercoats v Blakelaw Crofters Lodge and Lowick United v Wallsend Town.

By Bill Gardner
This stop-start campaign continued to be blighted by the weather and only three Northern Alliance games got the go-ahead, two of them over in Cumbria and the other also out west at Hexham.

The front runners for the Premier Division title are currently Walker Central, Gillford Park, Harraby Catholic Club and Seaton Delaval in an East versus West contest but of these sides only Harraby saw any action last weekend.

After two weeks inactivity Ponteland United made the trip to face high flying Harraby who haven’t been beaten at home this season. And after clinching a 4-0 victory the Cumbrians’ record stayed comfortably intact.

United manager Jarrod Suddick decided to go for experience and left youngster Scott Fenwick on the bench while bringing in Andrew Rendall as a central defender.

But Pont were under pressure from the very start with Harraby chasing every ball and closing their visitors down. After only four minutes a poor clearance by Craig Daglish was seized on by Harraby’s Stuart Moffat. He beat Marc Dummett on the bye line and crossed for Marc Shiel to head home from close range.

Joe Dawson had a chance for Pont at the other end but elected to cross rather than advance on goal. And with the home team still looking the stronger they doubled their lead when a through ball found the lively Lee Otway. He turned Rendall before shooting clinically past keeper Michael Havelock. The pace and movement of Harraby players - particularly James Earl, Otway and Nick Routledge up front -  was causing continual problems for Pont. Otway was on fire and Havelock had to tip his low shot round the post to prevent his second goal. A clearance by Dean Gate then hit his Ponteland colleague Rendall and fell kindly to Mike Swift who fired high over the bar.

Harraby were well on top and playing some good football coupled with their spirit and determination. United’s Ford was quite fortunate to stay on the pitch when he brought down Otway. And the Catholic Club increased their lead again before the interval as a long ball found Nick Routledge on the left flank. He waltzed round Andy Rendall before picking his spot and giving United keeper Havelock no chance. For some reason the Cumbrians’ most threatening front runner Lee Otway didn't appear for the second half after leaving the pitch in apparent disgust. But this didn't stop the home team who increased their lead on 55 minutes. Routledge cut in from the left to see his shot saved by Havelock but Shiel was on hand to outpace Glen Ford and he tapped in the rebound.

Harraby were then able to take their foot off the pedal which allowed Pont to get more into the game. A strong appeal for a penalty by Pont for handball was turned down by the referee. Andrew Davidson then played in Joe Dawson and he looked likely to score but went wide to the bye line before squaring the ball to Liam McIvor whose shot was well blocked. Sean Willis also had a couple of attempts blocked by the Harraby defence but it wasn’t Ponteland’s day.

Frustration began to get the better of one or two visiting players with both Liam McIvor and John Redhead somewhat fortunate to remain on the pitch. In the last twenty minutes new signing Phillips (making his debut), Scott Fenwick and James Hall were brought on for Rendall, Redhead and Dawson respectively but quite frankly any one of the Pont players could have been substituted after this inept performance.  

In the only other top flight game, also over in Cumbria, new Carlisle City team boss Stephen Bellas, the club’s ex-goalkeeper, was making his managerial debut as City entertained lowly Murton. City had drawn four of their last five games but Bellas’s new look squad got off to a promising start by beating their Durham visitors 4-1.

With several ex-players back on board City took the game to a Murton side with only two away wins to their credit and were three goals up at the interval. Ollie Driver opened their account before Scott Priest bagged himself a quick-fire brace in the 30th and 34th minutes.

Murton rallied a little after the change-over and midway through the half Martin Peace gave them some hope, getting them off the mark with his successful spot kick. But City weren’t in the mood to make any further concessions and Steve Bell claimed their fourth goal with ten minutes to go.

The weekend’s remaining game to survive was in the Second Division and on a surprisingly good surface at Wentworth Park hosts Hexham were beaten 2-1 by Benfield Chemfica. In an untidy match involving two players from either side being cautioned, Martin Dixon fired Chemfica into a 30th minute lead when a corner kick wasn’t cleared.

In the 70th minute a Benfield defender pressured by Ben Griffiths handled in the goalmouth and Iain Strachan equalised for Hexham from the penalty spot. There were few further chances at either end but after 80 minutes an awkward bounce deceived the home keeper and Liam Naulls pounced to steer in Chemfica’s winner.
The continuing freeze wiped out the rest of the Northern Alliance fixture programme as well as outstanding ties in the Northumberland FA Senior Bowl and the Ideal Stelrad Northumberland Minor Cup. The eleven Alliance teams affected will be trying to settle their differences again this weekend if the weather improves sufficiently.

By Bill Gardner
On what was probably the worst weekend of an already seriously disrupted local football season only one Northern Alliance side – Killingworth YPC Sporting – saw any action but even they were left disappointed after exiting from the Ideal Stelrad Northumberland FA Minor Cup.

Killy’s quarter-final tie away to Blakelaw Crofters Lodge was played out on an artificial surface and the home side, always looking the stronger, emerged as 3-1 victors.
Liam Anderson fired Blakelaw in front on the quarter hour but his opener was cancelled out midway through the half by Killingworth’s Daniel Snee. Then just before the interval Blakelaw were reduced to nine men when Steve Matthew and Lee Garwood were both shown the red card.

Despite their numerical advantage Killy didn’t look likely to make it count and straight after the break Chris Garwood’s successful spot kick restored Blakelaw’s lead. And in the 80th minute Adrian Sutcliffe was also on target to assure the Crofters of a place in the semi-finals.

Three Northern Alliance sides will be aiming for the same target in ties rearranged for next Saturday. Newcastle BT will be entertaining league colleagues Wallsend Town while Cullercoats are at home to Killingworth YPC Town.

Quarter-final games in the Northumberland FA Senior Bowl were also all frozen out and have been scheduled again for this weekend. The pairings in this competition are: Alnwick Town v Whitley Bay ‘A’, Ashington Colliers v Wallington, Berwick United v Blyth Town and Cramlington Town v Percy Main.

ALL CHANGE AT CARLISLE
Another totally blank Saturday as far as league games were concerned simply confirmed that a daunting fixture backlog is now looming. Six months into the campaign there are 29 clubs in the Alliance’s three divisions that haven’t completed half of their games yet and four of them haven’t even reached double figures.
While the big freeze continued there was some unrelated turmoil across in Cumbria affecting Premier Division outfit Carlisle City. After a special meeting convened in midweek, club secretary Jack Williamson announced some sweeping changes.

Joint managers Paul Pearson and Barry Robinson have been relieved of their duties and ex-goalkeeper Stephen Bellas has been chosen to take over the reins as City’s new team boss. On the playing front Dougie Lindsay, Paul Pearson, Jamie Hubner, Steven Rooke, Stewart Jamieson, Nigel Nichol, Lee McDermott and Jason Henderson have all been de-registered. And Carlisle now intend to bring several of their ex-players back into the fold at Sheepmount.

CUP UPDATE
Despite there being a backlog of league fixtures to wade through, progress has been steady in Northern Alliance cup competitions. The Longhorn Hardware League Cup is nearing the quarter-final stage with Wark, Harraby Catholic Club, Shankhouse, Seaton Delaval, Hexham and Cullercoats already having booked places in the last eight. With two remaining slots up for grabs, this weekend’s outstanding ties are Heaton Stannington v Stocksfield and Stobswood Welfare v Heddon.

In the forthcoming semi-finals of the Bosch Power Tools Challenge Cup in the Premier Division, Gillford Park will be entertaining Blyth Town and Heddon will have home advantage against Seaton Delaval.

The Combination Cup, Amateur Cup and Northern Alliance Charity Cup, all sponsored by Pin Point Recruitment, are also well advanced. In the First Division’s Combination Cup the semi-final draw is: Cullercoats v Whitley Bay ‘A’ and Red Row Welfare v Wallington.
In the Amateur Cup where Second Division clubs are involved the pairings in this season’s semi-finals will be: Amble United v Amble (a real local derby) and Forest Hall v Benfield Chemfica.

Since its recent introduction, the Charity Cup has been hugely successful in raising money for local worthy causes. It’s also proved to be a keenly-contested competition with four teams now bidding for a place in this season’s final. The semi-final matches are Red Row Welfare v Alnwick Town and Newcastle East End v Blyth Town.

By Bill Gardner

There was a major upset in one of the four Longhorn Hardware League Cup ties that went ahead and holders Walker Central bowed out, beaten 3-1 at home by First Division opponents Cullercoats. Craig Deighton claimed a hat-trick for the winners, scoring twice in the first half and once just after the break.

The Central’s normally competent rearguard never really got to grips with the lively Deighton who has now scored twenty-three goals for the Seasiders in all competitions this season. And Walker’s single response was a 72nd minute penalty scored by John Campbell.

Last season’s losing finalists Wallington were also shown the exit and in their delayed second round clash were beaten 3-0 at home by their First Division colleagues Stocksfield. Phil Murray (2) and Wayne Stewart were on target to put the visitors through and in the third round a week on Saturday Stocksfield will be paying a visit to Heaton Stannington.

Wark progressed into the League Cup’s fourth round with a 4-1 victory away to Amble United from the Second Division. First half strikes by Marc Nixon and Phil Thompson put Wark in charge and they added further goals through Nixon and Mark Campbell before Steve Gibbard grabbed a consolation goal for Amble.

In another third round tie Harraby Catholic Club made home advantage and superior status count to comfortably beat Second Division opponents Wallsend Town 3-1.

Rob Bainbridge, Lee Otway and Dan Anderton scored all the Cumbrians’ goals in the opening half hour. Stephen Dodd replied in the 80th minute for the Tynesiders.

While Walker Central were having a bad cup experience, Seaton Delaval - now back in second spot - trimmed the Central’s lead at the top of the Premier Division table to four points. Delaval beat visitors Peterlee Town 3-0 but had to wait until after the break for their goals put away by Terry Goicochea (2) and Connal Reed.

Gillford Park’s run of poor form continued and they slipped down to fourth spot after losing 3-2 to mid-table visitors Blyth Town. All of the game’s five goals were scored in the opening half and after Mike Riding gave the Park an early opener Blyth hit back quickly.

Danny Beresford equalised for the Northumbrians after only twelve minutes and when Joe Race whipped in his flag kick Jonathan Mann’s overhead kick was steered home by Beresford with a superb header. Mann got in on the act by putting Blyth in front and after running onto Race’s lob over the Gillford defence he cleverly chipped the ball over the advancing home keeper.

In the 36th minute Gillford got back on level terms when Blyth conceded a penalty and Stephen Skinner beat Scott Earl with his spot kick. But the Town weren’t to be denied and Jonathan Mann’s second goal of the game in the 40th minute turned out to be their winner. Once again Race was involved as he burst through the defence and cut the ball back to Mann who finished well from close range.

Alnwick Town stayed among the Premier Division pace-setters with their fourth home win on the trot and beat Heaton Stannington 3-0 to complete a league double. Alnwick’s marksmen were Scott McMullen (2) and Richard Brown with Heaton’s single reply coming from Gary Yates.

Newcastle University’s 2-2 draw away to Carlisle City couldn’t prevent them replacing Cramlington Town on the table’s bottom rung. Chris Kelleher and Ollie Driver netted in each half for City who have drawn four of their last five league games. Will Deledicq hit back twice for the Students in the 85th and 90th minutes. Meanwhile, Cramlington Town moved up to fourth from bottom thanks to their 4-1 victory away to Ashington Colliers. David Dormand (2), Kieran Parsons and Thomas North scored for the Town while Dylan Williamson was a lone marksman for Ashington.

DIVISION ONE – RED ROW CONTINUE TO STRUGGLE
Only three of six scheduled league games in the First Division were able to go ahead and Percy Main, yet to be beaten at Purvis Park, climbed up into third spot after hammering bottom rung visitors Red Row Welfare 6-0.

Red Row, with only a single win to their credit in what has turned out to be a traumatic season, came under relentless pressure and conceded two goals inside the first six minutes. Pierre - Luc Coiffait opened the Villagers’ account by turning in a low cross from Lindsay Collinson. And the home side’s lead was quickly doubled when a trade mark long throw from Coiffait was helped on by Graeme Cole allowing Jason Ritchie to steer the ball home.

Percy Main’s incessant pressure was rewarded by another three goals before the break as the Welfare continued to struggle. Midway through the half Sean Potts slotted in the Main’s third goal after a scramble and Graeme Cole made it four with his header from Coiffait's right wing flag kick.

The nap hand was completed on the stroke of half time and when Steven Shadforth's long ball from defence fell to Joe Betts he rounded the Red Row goalkeeper to roll the ball into an unguarded net. Percy Main took their foot off the gas in the second half but still took their tally to six in the 73rd minute. Chris Locke's shot from distance cannoned off the crossbar and Jason Ritchie followed up to score his second goal of the game.

Chopwell Officials ended a run of three defeats away from home with a 2-0 victory against hosts Hebburn Reyrolle which took them up to fourth place. This was a fifth league defeat on the trot for the home side and they were killed off by a goal in each half scored by Chopwell’s Dave and Mark Fitzpatrick.

Berwick United are third from bottom but there have been recent signs of improvement. After two home wins the Borderers shared the spoils from a 2-2 draw with mid-table visitors Northbank who have also been in better form lately. Simon Hargreaves and Andy Godsell supplied Berwick’s goals with Sergio Royo and Matt Reed replying for the Cumbrians.

DIVISION TWO – SHIELDSMEN PUT THE PRESSURE ON
Amble United are sharing pole position with South Shields United in the Second Division and while their top-of-the-table rivals were on cup duty South Shields kept the pressure on with their fifth home win on the trot, 2-1 against poor travellers Willington Quay Saints.

United should have been two up early on but Phil Enlund spurned easy chances but they took the lead in the 40th minute. A wind-assisted long throw from Michael Jeffries was poked in at the near post by Tijan Kah and the home side’s lead was doubled only two minutes later as Ryan Shave finished neatly from a right wing cross.

Willington Quay came back strongly after the interval and South Shields had to call on some class defending in which new recruit Jonny Gage, Assan Jallow and Gary Errington were outstanding. Keeper Shaun Newbrook also made a series of fine saves but he was beaten on the hour. He was only able to palm out a fierce drive and Glen Gallon reacted quickly to get the Saints off the mark but an equaliser eluded them.

Despite losing only once in their last eight league outings, Forest Hall have dropped a few precious points, leaving them in third spot with promotion hopes beginning to faded. The Forest were left disappointed again after their 1-1 draw at home to Wideopen & District who had just lost three away games on the trot. Gary Lamb opened the scoring for Wideopen after punishing a defensive error but Thomas Faid got Forest Hall’s equaliser.

Now occupying fourth spot North Shields Athletic have been enjoying a successful run and made it five home wins in succession by convincingly beating Wallsend Boys’ Club 4-1. The Athletic’s goals were shared by Glen Churchman, Matthew Donkin, Dan Walton and Simon Moslemi with Robert Nolan replying for the losers.

Benfield Chemfica secured only their second win away from home and clinched a 2-0 verdict against bottom rung opponents Tynemouth United. A goal in each half for Andy Price and Micky Crozier did the damage for Chemfica as they completed a league double. And Tynemouth are yet to win a game in the Northern Alliance and are still seeking their first point on home territory.

Hexham have won four of their last five matches in the Second Division and have pulled themselves clear of the basement. They were certainly too good for struggling visitors Amble FC who were soundly beaten 5-0. Darren Dobson and Ben Griffiths bagged a brace each for the winners and Hexham’s nap hand was completed by a Tony Lancaster goal.

By Bill Gardner

Reigning champions Walker Central are now six points ahead of second-placed Gillford Park at the head of the Premier Division table. Unbeaten at home, the Central made visitors Ashington Colliers their latest victims and won 3-1.

A hard fought game was played out on a heavy pitch which had an effect on Walker’s usual sharp-passing methods. And Ashington arrived at Monkchester with a team including at least half a dozen first team regulars from the Northern League so praise has to be given to Walker for their attitude and commitment in difficult circumstances.

Two goals in the opening half lifted the Central’s spirits. The first resulted from Gary McCartney’s through ball that was driven in low by John Campbell and the second was claimed by Ian Dunn. He netted from the edge of the box following some determined work by Paul Gardiner.

On the hour Walker’s lead was increased and when Campbell supplied the cross, McCartney found the net from only six yards out with a clinical left-footed effort. Midway through the second half Alan Hogg finally got the Colliers off the mark but they posed few threats in the later stages.

Three draws and a defeat in their last four home games have slowed down Gillford Park’s progress and Heaton Stannington restricted their Cumbrian hosts to a 2-2 stalemate. Gary Yates claimed both Heaton goals, scoring first and last while the Park salvaged a point in the interim with strikes by Mike Riding and Steve Skinner.

The bottom of the table clash involving hosts Cramlington Town and Murton resulted in a 2-1 victory for Murton who lifted off the bottom rung to leave Cramlington propping up the table. Jonathan Maxwell and Stephen Turner netted in each half for the winners with the Town’s token reply coming from Thomas North.

In a delayed second round tie in the Longhorn Hardware League Cup, Cullercoats won 4-3 away to Whitley Bay Town. Rob Watson, Steve Hart and Craig Deighton who bagged a vital brace inside the last ten minutes provided their goals. Whitley Bay Town, leading 3-2 before Deighton’s rescue act, had Kevin Gray, Mick Welford and Richard Biggs (penalty) on target and were very unlucky losers. And Cullercoats now face a testing visit to holders Walker Central at the next stage.

In the third round of the League Cup there were successes for Shankhouse and Seaton Delaval. Shankhouse’s Craig Johnson bagged himself a brace in his side’s 2-1 win away to Peterlee Town whose reply came from Robert Huntley.

Seaton Delaval also won 2-1 to end the cup hopes of Newcastle University at Wheatridge Park. Terry Goicochea’s goal ended nearly an hour of stalemate in Delaval’s favour but Edwin Tizard hit back in the 70th minute for the Students to make it all square again. Delaval player-manager Nicky Gray was on target to settle the issue with only three minutes to spare.

In three second round ties in the Alliance’s Pin Point Recruitment Charity Cup there was only one upset as Carlisle City were beaten 4-3 at home by First Division opponents Newcastle East End.

Chris Kelleher fired City into a first minute lead but the Tynesiders then had Anthony Johnson (2) and Dieu-Donne Lomana on target to take control. Lee Chapman completed the East Enders’ tally and although Jamie Heath and Ollie Driver added further goals for Carlisle they were chasing a lost cause.

Because of waterlogging up at Blyth, Blyth Town’s home tie against Whitley Bay ‘A’ in the Charity Cup was switched to the Bay’s ground at Hillheads and the Town won 3-2. Jeff Fuller opened their account on the half hour mark with a curling free kick round the defensive wall and into the top corner.

Five minutes after the break Joe Race doubled Blyth’s lead by turning in a low cross from Fuller. Malcolm Morien trimmed the deficit almost immediately with his opener for the Bay and there was some excitement in the final minutes of the tie. Jonathan Mann scored Blyth’s third when a long kick from keeper Scott Earle caught out the Whitley Bay defence and he raced through to score. Mark Fenwick then claimed a second reply for the hosts but by then time was running out.

Meanwhile, in an all-Premier Division Charity Cup encounter, Ponteland United’s last chance of silverware evaporated after their 1-0 defeat by visitors Alnwick Town whose first half winner was put away by Mark Cockburn.



DIVISION ONE – RARE SUCCESS FOR BORDERERS

Still second from bottom in the First Division rankings, Berwick United earned themselves some breathing space by beating visitors Hebburn Reyrolle 3-2. This was a fifth successive defeat on their travels for Hebburn, both of whose goals were scored by James Keeler. Sean Phillips (2) and Andrew Godsell were Berwick’s marksmen to give them only their second league victory.

The top three teams in the First Division – Stocksfield, Whitley Bay ‘A’ and Cullercoats – were all absent from league duty, and fourth-placed Killingworth YPC reduced the points gap. Killy, with games in hand of all of their pace-setting rivals, picked up three easy points by winning 5-0 away to the division’s bottom club Red Row Welfare. They completed a league double against their hosts with goals supplied by Daniel Snee (2), Frank Di Pietro, Kevin Westphal and Callum Colback.

Northbank and Percy Main improved their respective rankings and Northbank were 2-1 winners at Seaton Burn where their hosts were left seeking their first home win. Johnny Mason gave the Cumbrians a very early opener but this was cancelled out before the break when the Burn’s Rob MacDonald headed home from Dave Hewitt’s cross. In the 85th minute a corner kick fell to Northbank’s substitute Lewis Gallagher who scored his side’s winner from close range.

Percy Main are yet to be beaten at Purvis Park this term and shared the spoils in an exciting 2-2 draw with Gosforth Bohemian Garnett. The game’s early kick off attracted over a hundred spectators and the Bohemians made a bright start with Matt Atkin bagging himself a first half brace.

Straight after the interval the Villagers reduced the deficit with Jonathon McEnaney scoring from well outside the area when his chance was set up by Sean Potts. Then, midway through the second half, parity was restored and, following Pierre Coiffait's long throw, Jason Ritchie crossed from the left for Joe Betts to steer the ball home.

In a mid-table local derby south of the Tyne, Gateshead Rutherford improved on the earlier draw with their visitors Chopwell Officials and won 2-1 this time. Goals in each half for Stephen Tumelty and Ross Taylor gave Rutherford a useful lead. In truth however Chopwell had the better of the exchanges after the break but their pressure only resulted in a single reply from Craig Foster.



DIVISION TWO – BENFIELD SHOCK FOR FOREST

Only four league games were scheduled in the Second Division and, with leaders Amble United and closest rivals South Shields United taking a break from chasing league points, third-placed Forest Hall wasted a great opportunity in the promotion race.

Forest had enjoyed a six-match unbeaten run before entertaining Benfield Chemfica but their visitors beat them 2-0 to earn their first points away from home. And for the first time in this campaign Forest Hall failed to get a name on the score sheet as they were hit by Martin Dixon’s and Ryan Stobbard’s strikes for a delighted Chemfica.

In their last seven games Wallsend Boys’ Club have five times and there was another 1-1 deadlock on their visit to Newcastle BT. The BT lads had won their two previous matches on home turf but were happy to share the spoils in this one. They had Andy Mackay on target with Stu Bell replying for the Boys’ Club who had Andy Lau going close to claiming a late winner.

Wideopen & District are looking ready to climb back up the table following a damaging lean spell and a 3-2 home win against North Shields Athletic was a morale-booster. Gary Lamb (2) and Martin Roper found the net for Wideopen with Ronnie Kay and Simon Moslemi replying for the visitors.

Willington Quay Saints are yet to be beaten on their own patch and struggling Tynemouth United never looked like ending that record. The Saints coasted to a 4-1 victory after being 3-0 up at the interval thanks to strikes by Mark Henderson, Andy Duffield and Chris Lowes. John Meehan’s spot kick for Tynemouth reduced the deficit but in the dying seconds Glen Gallon weighed in with the home side’s fourth goal of the game.

By Bill Gardner
Ponteland United hoisted themselves from the Premier Division basement fringes up into mid-table with a 2-0 home win against Ashington Colliers, only their second league victory at the Leisure Centre Ground this season.

After Shaun Gibson spurned a great scoring opportunity for Ashington, Pont started to play some attractive football with Marc Dummett and Andrew Davidson linking up well on the left flank, Joe Dawson chasing everything up front and Liam McIvor always looking dangerous in front of goal.

After 25 minutes Ponteland took the lead when McIvor was brought down just outside the box. A cleverly worked free kick involving Scott Fenwick & Dummett resulted in Dummett's dangerous cross being turned away for a corner. And from Davidson’s inswinging flag kick McIvor managed to poke the ball home.

It was still 1-0 to the hosts at the interval but Pont continued to attack after the break with Andrew Davidson involved in almost every move. And in the 65th minute the home side’s lead was doubled when the pressure paid off. A free-flowing move involving Dummett, Davidson, Dawson and McIvor resulted in Fenwick playing in McIvor who made no mistake, firing low into the net for his second goal of the game.

Heddon were away to a Harraby Catholic Club side which had lost only one league game and on the half hour the Cumbrians were leading 2-0. Both goals in the space of two minutes were scored by Lee Otway. His first was driven home from thirty yards when he intercepted a poor throw out from the Heddon keeper. And his second was claimed from the edge of the area from Matthew Blake’s clever back-heeled pass.

The second half saw Heddon take advantage of the wind as they pushed the home team back and on the hour they reduced the deficit. John Dunn was brought down just inside the Harraby box and Max Turner scored from the spot. Then almost immediately Heddon got back on terms when Dunn slotted in a square pass from Craig Horsfall. But after 77 minutes Harraby snatched their winner. Heddon’s Martin Lamb brought down Otway only to be red-carded for his tackle and Mike Swift despatched the vital penalty to make it 3-2 for the Cumbrians.

Walker Central increased their lead at the head of the Premier Division to four points by beating bottom rung hosts Murton 3-1 and despite trailing to Lee Doyle’s opener after only five minutes. Ian Mills equalised promptly for the Central and before the break John Campbell bagged a brace as Walker extended their unbeaten run to eight games.

Behind the current pace setters there are now four sides – Gillford Park, Shankhouse, Seaton Delaval and Alnwick Town – all sharing second spot on 24 points each. Delaval’s game away to Blyth Town was postponed and Alnwick Town took a break from league duty to beat hosts Killingworth YPC 3-0 in the Pin Point Recruitment Charity Cup. Their scorers were James Lang, Mark Richardson and substitute Scott McMullen.

Unbeaten in their four away games so far, Gillford Park were almost restricted to a draw for the second time this season by Cramlington Town. There were no goals as the game entered the second minute of stoppage time and Steve Skinner gave the Park a 1-0 win with his spot kick to spark a round of protests. As a result the Town had two players red-carded.

Shankhouse still have only one home win to their credit after drawing 1-1 with Heaton Stannington at Northburn. Heaton themselves have won only once on their travels and were lucky to share the spoils in this game. Craig Johnson put Shankhouse in front midway through the first half and only five minutes were left when Adam Donaghey levelled for the visitors.

Without a win in their last eight outings Peterlee Town drew 2-2 with visitors Carlisle City after strikes by Philip Hickman and Robert Huntley gave them a clear lead. Chris Kelleher (penalty) got City off the mark before the Newtowners’ Paul Carter presented them with an own goal equaliser.

Wark’s first away win, 4-3 against Newcastle University, lifted them above their hosts in the basement. Lee Telfer completed a hat-trick for Wark whose other scorer was Phil Robinson. Dave Kewn, Oliver Heywood and George Coyle netted for the unlucky Students.

DIVISION ONE – THE BAY ARE BLOCKED
Despite lying idle once again, Stocksfield are still comfortably heading the First Division table, a clear nine points a\head of nearest rivals Whitley Bay ‘A’ and with a game in hand. And Whitley Bay slipped up, beaten for the first time this season at Hillheads. Newcastle East End did the damage and they clinched a 2-1 verdict to give themselves their own first away win of the campaign. Lee Chapman and Dieu-Donne Lomana opened and closed the scoring for the Eastenders with Malcolm Morien replying for the Bay.

With Cullercoats on County Cup duty, Chopwell Officials had a chance to replace them in third spot but were beaten 3-2 at Percy Main. The Main, still unbeaten at Purvis Park, were given the lead in a thrilling game by Tony Browell as he rifled in Jason Ritchie’s flag kick at the back post but their visitors hit back. Goals for Craig Foster and Stuart Rook on either side of the interval put Chopwell in command but with twenty minutes to go the Villagers responded emphatically. Joe Betts got them back on terms when Sean Potts created his opportunity and then in the 81st minute Jason Ritchie grabbed their winner. He controlled Jonathan McEnaney’s cross brilliantly to give Chopwell keeper Kevin March no chance.

Northbank climbed into mid-table and ended a lean spell by beating visitors Hebburn Reyrolle 3-2. Despite having James Keeler and Craig Walton on target Hebburn still suffered their fourth successive defeat away from home. Assisted by an own goal by Hebburn’s Keith Simpson, the Cumbrians sealed the points with strikes by Andy Rogerson and their top scorer Mark Worrall.

In a match switched to Lobley Hill, Gosforth Bohemian Garnett shared four goals and the spoils with Gateshead Rutherford. Both sides have struggled a bit this season but the Bohs were trying to complete a rare league double. They were fired in front twice by Harry Tulip and then Dan Corcoran but allowed Rutherford to respond with two replies by Ross Taylor.

Still seeking their first home win, Seaton Burn had to field a weakened team against bottom rung visitors Red Row Welfare who were pointless before the kick off. But the Welfare won 2-1 to finally give themselves something to celebrate and had Bradley Smith and Arron Sayer scoring in each half before Dave Hewitt headed home from a free kick for the Burn’s consolation goal.

DIVISION TWO – GAIR IS GREAT FOR AMBLE
Amble United have a three-point cushion in pole position in the Second Division where South Shields United and Forest Hall are now their most threatening rivals. Both Amble and Forest Hall picked up maximum points but South Shields, beaten only once in their last nine games, were restricted to a 3-3 draw by hosts Wideopen & District. Wideopen had won 3-2 in the reverse fixture and looked set for a repeat when Gary Lamb (2) and Richie Curran (penalty) found the net. Shields recovered however with a Phil Ormond brace, including a spot kick and a vital strike by Phil Elund.

League leaders Amble United extended their unbeaten run to eight games by winning 2-1 away to Benfield Chemfica. Two goals, both put away by Ross Gair, were enough to complete a double for the Seasiders but Chemfica caused some anxious moments after Liam Naulls reduced the arrears.

In third spot, Forest Hall have enjoyed a successful run and it continued with a convincing 4-2 victory over struggling visitors Tynemouth United. Forest’s match-winning marksmen were Michael Reay (2), Mark Knights and Mark Nicholson. Tynemouth, stuck on the bottom rung with only a single point to their credit so far, were far from over-run and deserved their two replies put away by Mark Carey.

After drawing four of the preceding six games, Wallsend Boys’ Club got back to winning ways at Hexham where their hosts had been unbeaten in three previous encounters on their own patch. An Andy Lau hat-trick did the major damage for the Boys’ Club whose other marksman was Dan Parker. Ironically, the best goal of the game was blasted home from over thirty yards by Hexham’s Tony Lancaster.

North Shields Athletic made it four home wins on the trot at the expense of poor travellers Whitley Bay Town and won 2-1 in another close game between these two sides. After only managing a draw in the reverse fixture the Athletic picked up all three points this time thanks to goals by Michael Cunningham and Dan Walton. The Town’s single reply came from Jamie Wallace.

Willington Quay Saints have become the Second Division’s draw experts and shared the spoils again in a 2-2 draw with fast-improving visitors Stobswood Welfare. Goals in each half for David King and Chris Graham gave the Welfare a clear lead but they surrendered their advantage. Glen Johnson’s successful 66th minute spot kick got the Saints off the mark and only seven minutes later and having had a player sent off, their equaliser was scored by Chris Lowes

NFA MINOR CUP – FOUR OUT OF EIGHT ISN’T BAD
In delayed ties in the Ideal Stelrad Northumberland Minor Cup, another three Northern Alliance flag bearers earned places in the forthcoming quarter-finals. And while Amble FC bowed out after losing 2-1 away to Lynemouth Miners’ Welfare FC, their colleagues Cullercoats, Newcastle BT and Wallsend Town all made progress.

Cullercoats coasted through and after leading 5-0 at half time in their home tie against Blyth Town Reserves they finally clinched an outstanding 8-0 victory. Femi Akinbolu (hat-trick) and Ben Gardner (2) led the Cullercoats charge and the other scorers were Craig Deighton, Stewart Wright and Rob Watson.

Newcastle BT made the cut by beating cup hosts Killingworth Station 4-2 and all four of the winners’ goals were put away by Dave Thompson. Meanwhile, Wallsend Town had to be content with a more modest 1-0 success at home to Newcastle RVI Lochside. Paul McCutcheon claimed the Town’s vital winner.

Last weekend’s three winners from the Northern Alliance will be joining league partners Killingworth YPC Sporting in the last eight of the county competition. The surviving ‘outsiders’ in the draw will be Blakelaw Crofters Lodge, Killingworth YPC Town, Lowick United and Lynemouth Miners Welfare SC.

By Bill Gardner

On a day when the entire league programme was frozen out, only two Northern Alliance sides saw any action and they had to travel north to slightly balmier climes.
Forest Hall and Killingworth YPC Sporting were both taking on North Northumberland League hosts in the fourth round of the Ideal Stelrad Northumberland FA Minor Cup and had differing fortunes in their respective ties.

Forest Hall had last won this trophy way back in 1978 and they bowed out yesterday after losing 2-1 away to Lowick United. In an even game that was a credit to both sides in the windy and difficult conditions Lowick were fired into an interval lead when Neil Jefferson punished a defensive error.

Early in the second half Tom Carver restored parity for Forest Hall but there were still few chances at either end. Then, with only two minutes to go, Lowick sealed what had seemed an unlikely victory and when Richard Coupland was floored in the area Anthony Murray made no mistake with the resulting penalty.

Killingworth YPC’s tie away to Berwick Town was a much more frantic affair played out on a very constricted pitch. Killy’s normal free-flowing style was badly effected while the Town relied heavily on physical tactics. And Killingworth did well to finally emerge as 3-0 victors.

On the half hour an overhead kick by Kevin Westphal was palmed off the line by a Berwick defender who was red-carded for his unorthodox save. And David Borley stepped up to put the visitors in front with his spot kick.

After the break Killy held onto their slender advantage in what was turning into a rather ugly game and they killed off their hosts in the closing stages. In the 80th minute Daniel Snee doubled the visitors’ lead after racing onto a lofted pass and five minutes later the Borderers were caught out again. Killy broke quickly from defence and Westphal, one on one with the home keeper, picked his spot from just inside the box.

So Killingworth YPC became the first Northern Alliance side to book their place in this season’s quarter-finals of the Minor Cup. Because of the freeze another four of their league colleagues will have to try to make progress again next Saturday. Weather permitting, Cullercoats and Wallsend Town have respective home ties against Blyth Town Reserves and Newcastle RVI Lochside. Amble FC will be visiting Lynemouth Miners Welfare SC while Newcastle BT will make the short trip to face Killingworth Station.

This stop-start season will undoubtedly eventually result in several clubs having fixture backlogs and facing up to a busy time in the second half of the campaign. In the Alliance’s Premier Division only Shankhouse have completed half of their league fixtures while the worst hit by postponements have been Harraby Catholic Club, Newcastle University, Gillford Park and Ashington Colliers.

The teams with similar problems in the First Division are likely to be Killingworth YPC, Wallington, Newcastle East End, Seaton Burn and Gosforth Bohemian Garnett. Meanwhile, with fewer clubs in the Second Division things are not quite as critical but the likes of Tynemouth United, Stobswood Welfare and Amble FC may have some catching up to do.

LEAGUE SECRETARY ENDS LONG ASSOCIATION
At a Management Committee Meeting last Thursday, members considered the shock resignation of league secretary John McLackland who had held the position for two decades. John, who was also a previous secretary of the former Northern Amateur League, has been a selfless and very efficient official for the Alliance and is sure to be badly missed. He gave no reasons for his sudden decision to end his time in charge.

His resignation has been reluctantly accepted and the post is likely to be filled by assistant secretary Derek Booth who has recently been dealing with players’ registrations and Premier Division fixtures.

By Bill Gardner
Seaton Delaval surrendered pole position to Walker Central after going down 2-1 at home to Shankhouse who have proved to be a jinx team for the Wheatridge Park outfit over the years. Things looked bright for Delaval when Steve Anderson fired them in front straight from the kick off. But just after the break Lee Gustard got Shankhouse back on terms and Craig Johnson put their 69th minute winner away.

Defending champions Walker Central are now leading the field although only four points are separating the top four title contenders. After their earlier 1-1 draw over in Cumbria the Central did considerably better and hammered Carlisle City 6-1 at Monkchester.

City’s Ollie Driver opened the scoring after 35 minutes but Walker were impressive after the break. In the space of fifteen devastating minutes the ball ended up in the Carlisle net five times. The home side’s marksmen were Paul Gardiner, John Campbell (2) and David Thompson (2) and with a minute to go Gardiner scored again to complete the winners’ tally.

In third spot behind Walker and Seaton Delaval, Alnwick Town completed a league double at the expense of visitors Cramlington Town. After winning 3-2 in the reverse fixture, Alnwick won 2-0 this time and have lost only one of their last six home games. Goals in each half for Ben Webster and Tony Brown did the damage in this one.

Gillford Park’s home game against Wark was postponed, giving their Cumbrian neighbours Harraby Catholic Club a chance to overtake them. But Harraby, beaten only once this term, missed out and were restricted to a 1-1 draw by fast-improving hosts Blyth Town. Blyth had won three of their four previous home games and were given the lead by Chris Lisle. Nick Routledge levelled on the stroke of half time for Harraby but they couldn’t make any further headway.

After eight games without a win Heaton Stannington avenged an earlier defeat by Newcastle University by beating the Students 2-1 at Grounsell Park. Strikes by Sean Graham and Kevin Carr earned Heaton a long-awaited but impressive victory and the visitors’ single reply came from Ben Burte.

The bottom of the table clash between hosts Murton and Ashington Colliers was won 4-0 by the Colliers to rid themselves of any immediate problems. Richard Brown and David Brown scored in the first half and Anthony Wright and Lee Scott in the second to wrap up the points for the Northumbrians.

Peterlee Town have picked up only a single point in their last seven appearances and were soundly beaten 6-0 at home by Ponteland United. Pont ended their own short lean spell in style with three goals in each half shattering the Newtowners and hoisting them clear of the basement.

With Andy Rendall unavailable and James Hall absent with a dislocated shoulder, Craig Daglish came into the centre of defence with young Scott Fenwick replacing Hall. The match was evenly contested in the first 15 minutes but Pont opened the scoring midway through the first half. Dean Gate’s cross into the box enabled Scott Fenwick to touch the ball over the line.

Ponteland’s lead was doubled on the half hour when good approach work by Liam McIvor and John Redhead was neatly finished off by Andrew Davidson. And almost immediately United claimed their third goal as Joe Dawson’s headed pass was put away by the speedy McIvor.

On the stroke of half time Pont got a fourth goal scored by Gate and it was game over. Peterlee made two substitutions at half time but this made little difference as Ponteland continued to be at their free-flowing best. The Newtowners conceded another two goals midway through the half as McIvor bagged his second with his colleague Dawson also on target.

DIVISION ONE – LEADERS BOTH CLAIM NARROW VICTORIES
Stocksfield have won every one of their five home games so far and are leading the field in the First Division, nine points clear of nearest challengers Whitley Bay ‘A’. Both won to preserve the status quo and Stocksfield completed a league double by beating visitors Gateshead Rutherford 2-1. Their scorers this time were Wayne Stewart with a diving header from Phil Murray’s cross and then Murray himself who grasped a simple tap in opportunity set up by Ben Pearson. Andy Reay replied for the losers.

After three successive draws, Whitley Bay ‘A’ beat third-placed rivals Cullercoats 2-1 at Hillheads to extend an unbeaten run to eight games. The Bay had Gavin Hattrick and Malcolm Morien on target in a hard-fought game in which Femi Akinbolu replied for the visitors.

Percy Main are still unbeaten at Purvis Park after their 3-0 win against Northbank but they had to wait almost an hour for their opener. Michael Freathy did the trick in a goalmouth scramble resulting from Pierre-Luc Coiffait’s flag kick. The lead was quickly doubled by Coiffait himself when he got on the end of Wyn Fremlin’s corner and with ten minutes to go Jason Ritchie completed the Main’s tally. His chance was set up clinically by Joe Betts.

Against the general run of play, Killingworth YPC beat hosts Chopwell Officials 2-1 and a goalkeeping error led to Kevin Westphal’s opener for Killy. The home side hit back through Andrew Smith to signal a possible revival but with Chopwell piling on the pressure Paul Ridley snatched a winner for their opponents.

Hebburn Reyrolle and visitors Seaton Burn had both been suffering from a dip in form prior to meeting up at Hebburn. Reyrolle were fired in front twice by Mark Haire (penalty) and Matt Donwall but replies from the Burn’s Ian Armstrong and Dave Hewitt restored parity. Then in the dying seconds, Armstrong netted again to make it 3-2 to Seaton Burn.

Red Row Welfare are still propping up the First Division table and seeking their first league point after eleven league appearances. They lost again, 3-2 on their visit to Gosforth Bohemian Garnett, to give their hosts a first home win of the season. The Welfare’s scorers were Bradley Smith and Josh Gilmartin but Gosforth harvested the points with goals shared by John McDonald, David Robinson and Paul Menton.

Berwick United, just four points better off than Red Row in the basement, were also beaten 3-2 by Wallington at Scots Gap. With no points from away games so far the Borderers conceded goals to Wallington’s Tom McPherson, Sam Walton and Ashley McAlpine before replying too late through Lee Walker and Chris Falconer.

DIVISION TWO – AMBLE BACK IN POLE POSITION
Former Second Division leaders South Shields United had an idle Saturday and they were nudged out of pole position by new pace-setters Amble United.

Amble United and fourth-placed Stobswood Welfare, who have several useful games in hand, are both sitting pretty as far as possible promotion is concerned. Both were enjoying hundred percent home records and Amble retained theirs by beating Wideopen & District 1-0. After several glaring misses in the first half United were happy to see Darren Riddell claiming their winner shortly after the break.

Stobswood Welfare spilled their first home points in a 2-2 draw with North Shields Athletic after throwing away a two-goal lead provided by Dean Hope and Josh Hay. The determined visitors were allowed to salvage a point with replies by Matthew Donkin and Glen Churchman.

Third-placed Forest Hall stayed in contention and beat hosts Wallsend Town 3-1 to remain unbeaten on their travels. Michael Reay bagged himself a brace for the winners whose other marksman was Kevin Baldwin. Paul McCutcheon netted for Wallsend as their misery continued; they’ve now lost seven league games on the trot.

Wallsend Boys’ Club have drawn their last four games on home turf so a goal-less stalemate with bottom rung side Tynemouth United wasn’t good news. The result however boosted Tynemouth’s morale as they picked up their first point of their campaign.

Benfield Chemfica and Hexham both secured vital victories to hoist themselves clear of the basement. In their bottom-of-the-table clash with visitors Whitley Bay Town, Chemfica clinched a 2-0 verdict with both of their goals put away in the first half by Liam Naulls.

Hexham are proving difficult to beat on their own patch and emerged as 3-2 winners against Newcastle BT. Dave Thompson and Anthony Bruce found the net for BT but their goals were just outweighed by the strikes of Ian Strachan (2) and Orin Parkinson for Hexham.

By Bill Gardner
While previous league leaders Gillford Park slipped down a notch, Alnwick Town climbed into fourth spot and ended a month’s enforced break with a 2-0 home win against Shankhouse. The Town showed no signs of being ring-rusty after their ‘holiday’ and secured the points with goals by Richard Brown and Scott McMullen. Shankhouse however have played half of their league games and may drop out of the title race if results don’t improve.

Seaton Delaval ended the year in pole position – the first time in twelve years that they’ve been top of the pile in the Premier Division. And they made it four wins on the trot by beating Ponteland United 3-2 at Wheatridge Park.

Terry Goicochea opened the scoring for Delaval and their lead was doubled by an own goal gift. Liam McIvor then got Ponteland off the mark but right on half time Stephen Howes restored the home side’s two-goal advantage. Midway through the second half Dean Gate trimmed the deficit for United and they forced Delaval to hang on grimly in the closing stages.

The postponement of their home game against Heddon was costly for Gillford Park who were replaced in second spot by defending champions Walker Central. The Central extended their unbeaten run to six games with a 2-0 victory over in-form visitors Newcastle University. Ian Dunn fired Walker into an interval lead but the Students always looked threatening and there was relief all round for the Central when leading scorer Dave Thompson claimed their second goal and his thirteenth of the season in the 80th minute.

Harraby Catholic Club – champions in 2007 – could soon be influencing the current title race. Despite being in sixth place the Cumbrians have five games in hand of the latest leaders and have lost only once so far. Away to Wark they won 2-0 but had to wait until the second half to wrap up the points.
Wark made their visitors fight all the way to clinch the points and both sides went close in the opening stages. Martin Hardy and Lee Telfer both hit the woodwork for Wark while Marc Shiel and Nick Routledge fired just wide for Harraby.

The Cumbrians finally broke the deadlock on 65 minutes when James Earl’s determined run down the right saw him brought down in the corner of the box and Shiel stepped up to score from the penalty spot. Inside another minute Harraby’s lead was doubled and, when the home keeper didn’t hold Earl’s cross, Routledge was able to steer the ball over the line.

Things are remaining tight in the Premier Division basement with only two points separating the bottom six clubs. And Murton lifted off the bottom rung after beating mid-table visitors Peterlee Town 4-1. Murton avenged their earlier 3-2 defeat by the Newtowners with goals supplied by Andy Somerville (2), Karl Garside and Michael Walton. John Pyle replied for Peterlee who have now failed to win any of their last six league games.

Heaton Stannington have gone seven games without a win and had to settle for a 2-2 home draw with Carlisle City with only a single point separating the two sides. Heaton were two up at the break thanks to Gary Yates and Chris Hutchinson but replies from Jamie Heath and Chris Kelleher gave City a deserved share of the spoils.

Meanwhile, Blyth Town’s renaissance continued and a 3-1 victory at home to lowly Ashington Colliers earned them some more breathing space. After 11 minutes Aaron Hicken opened the scoring for Blyth by volleying home from Danny Beresford’s cross. Eight minutes later Beresford himself doubled the Town’s lead after he raced onto a long ball from Scott Earle.

Blyth’s winning tally was completed midway through the second half as, set up by Jeff Fuller, Beresford slotted in his second goal of the game. Anthony Wright replied for the Colliers but they need to use their games in hand productively to get themselves out of trouble.

DIVISION ONE – SHOCK DEFEAT FOR SEASIDERS
In the First Division, second-placed Whitley Bay ‘A’ were lying idle and Cullercoats in third spot slipped up badly on their visit to Scots Gap to face Wallington. The Seasiders were hammered 6-1 and could have no qualms about the outcome. Femi Akinbolu was their lone marksmen while the goals for an impressive Wallington side were put away by Ashley McAlpine (2), Stuart Foreman, Jack Palmer, Darren Carr and Ross Donnelly.

Percy Main were limited to a goal-less draw at Purvis Park by Seaton Burn who had Dave Hewitt sent off rather harshly only ten minutes into the game. Burt there was no shortage of goals at Gateshead where Rutherford dished out a 7-0 lesson to Berwick United. The Borderers haven’t yet picked up a single point on their travels and were well beaten again. Andy Reay completed his hat-trick for Rutherford, Ross Taylor bagged a brace and the winning tally was topped up by Stephen Tumelty and debutant Ian Bell.

Although they’re in fourth spot at the moment, Chopwell Officials are not yet serious promotion candidates but they were certainly too strong for bottom rung visitors Red Row Welfare. Still seeking their first point in this campaign, the Welfare were soundly beaten 6-1 and their single goal scored by Joe Moscrop was poor consolation. In a rather one-sided game Chopwell were never tested and their goals were shared by Kevin Morland, Andrew Smith, Lee Best, Mark Fitzpatrick and Stuart Rookes.

Stocksfield are now nine points ahead of nearest rivals Whitley Bay ‘A’ at the top of the table. Having won eleven of their twelve games to date the Tyne Valley outfit added three more points to their coffers by beating hosts Killingworth YPC 4-2. Killy had Kevin Grahamslaw and Peter Mulholland on target but still suffered their second defeat of the season. Phil Murray (2), Bruce Vause and Pat Finnerty scored for the league leaders.

Newcastle East End also claimed a 6-1 victory at home to Hebburn Reyrolle whose recent dip in form has been dramatic. Having now claimed only one win in five most recent appearances, Hebburn’s only scorer was James Keeler. Anthony Johnson was responsible for four of the East Enders’ goals with the other two put away by Paul Bright and Dieu-Donne Lomana.

DIVISION TWO – HOT-SHOT GIBBARD RETURNS TO HIS ROOTS
Only four games went ahead in the Second Division and second-placed Amble United secured a crucial 3-0 victory at home to current table-toppers South Shields United. Ross Gair gave Amble an interval lead which was doubled by the same player straight after the break. Returning ex-player-manager Steve Gibbard scored United’s third goal and with two games in hand they now have a great chance to take over in pole position in the New Year.

Amble United’s position was further strengthened by the 6-2 defeat of third-placed rivals Wideopen & District at Hexham, Hexham, who look set for a climb away from the basement, looked very strong in this encounter and their winning marksmen were Iain Strachan (2), Neil Tiffin, Mark Gibson, Scott Robson and Ben Griffiths. Both replies for losers Wideopen came from Richard Curran.

With games in hand to aid their cause, Forest Hall’s promotion hopes can’t be written off and they retained their unbeaten away record by drawing 1-1 with Wallsend Boys’ Club. This was an entertaining game between two clubs level on points and in the top half of the table. Danny Parker found the net for the Boys’ Club with his goal cancelled out by Forest Hall’s Tom Carver.
Wallsend Town’s woes continued and they suffered a sixth successive defeat, going down 5-4 to visitors Willington Quay Saints. Despite having Willie Tindle, Kevin Rookes, Mark Brewis and Steve Cap on target the Town were just edged out of the points. In what was their first away win this term the Saints had a four-goal hero in Gareth Pugh to complete a league double over Wallsend. And their other marksman was Glen Gallon.

Tynemouth United meanwhile became the latest Alliance side to bow out of the Northumberland Minor Cup. They switched their home tie to the ground of opponents Berwick Town and, despite scoring through Stephen Bell (2) and Paul Neilson, were narrowly beaten 4-3.

There will now be only five teams in the fourth round of the Minor Cup with ties due to be played on 10th January. The surviving flag bearers are Cullercoats, Newcastle BT, Forest Hall, Amble and Wallsend Town.

By Bill Gardner
Gillford Park were toppled from pole position in the Premier Division after suffering their first league defeat of this campaign. The Park were beaten 3-2 at home by defending champions Walker Central who built up an early two-goal lead through Dave Thompson and John Campbell. Steve Skinner (penalty) and Mark Butler restored parity for Gillford before the break but after 80 minutes Joe Kennedy scored the Central’s winner.

Seaton Delaval replaced Gillford at the top on goal difference after winning 3-1 away to bottom rung side Murton. Murton had been unbeaten in four previous home games and were fired in front by Karl Garside. John Fitzpatrick levelled promptly for Delaval but they had to wait until deep into the second half for their other goals put away by Phil Hildreth and Paul Baird.

Shankhouse held onto third spot just ahead of Walker Central and after a spell of five games without a win they beat hosts Blyth Town 3-1. Trailing at half time to Aaron Hicken’s opener for Blyth, Shankhouse were strong after the break and Andrew Sherlaw equalised on the hour. Later strikes by Kevin Gustard and Gavin Keen, who netted in the dying seconds, wrapped up the points.

Alnwick Town’s home game against Heddon was postponed and the rest of the action was in the Longhorn Hardware League Cup. Carlisle City’s long-delayed first round tie at Wallington finally went ahead but there was no joy for the Cumbrians. Despite having Stephen Bell and Jamie Heath on target at Scots Gap, City were beaten 3-2 by their First Division hosts whose scorers were Stuart Foreman, Sam Walton and Ashley McAlpine. McAlpine found the net for his winner in the 89th minute.

In the second round of the League Cup, six Premier Division sides were trying to make progress and five were successful against opponents from the lower ranks. The only exception was Cramlington Town who lost out 2-1 in extra time away to Hexham. Andrew Scott put the Town in front after a goal-less opening half but with a minute to spare a Tom Phillips goal earned Hexham a reprieve. And in the 98th minute Phillips bagged his second to settle the issue.

Harraby Catholic Club, Newcastle University, Peterlee Town, Heaton Stannington and Wark all booked places in the third round and Harraby hammered neighbours Northbank 7-1 with goals for Nick Routledge (3), Rob Bainbridge (2), Dan Anderton and Lee Otway.

Joe Foote and Dave Kewn netted to give the University a 2-0 home win against Benfield Chemfica and Peterlee Town’s scorers in their 2-1 extra time victory against visitors Wideopen were David Fisher and Alan Smith.

Heaton Stannington beat cup hosts Wallsend Boys’ Club 4-1 thanks to Kevin Carr (2), Lawrence McKenna and Derek Oman and Wark’s marksmen in their 3-0 success at home to Amble were Marc Nixon (2) and Lee Telfer.

In an all-Second Division tie, hosts Forest Hall were beaten 3-2 in extra time by Stobswood Welfare despite having Michael Reay and Terry McCarthy on the mark. Stobswood turned out to have a super-sub in Michael Hogg and after coming off the bench he bagged a brace to add an extra half hour to the proceedings. And his hero status was enhanced when he scored the Welfare’s winner to complete his hat-trick.

DIVISION ONE – LEADERS CHOP DOWN RIVALS
First Division leaders Stocksfield extended their lead at the top to six points and a 6-3 win over fourth-placed visitors Chopwell Officials allowed them to maintain their hundred percent home record. Phil Murray supplied four of the Stocksfield goals with the others scored by Ben Pearson and Scott Johnson. Chopwell’s replies came from David Purdy, Andrew Smith and Lee Best.

In another of only four games down for decision in the First Division, second-placed Whitley Bay ‘A’ slipped up again. After winning four league games on the trot the Bay have drawn their last three and featured in another - a 2-2 stalemate with hosts Gateshead Rutherford.

Two goals for Jamie Linden, including a 29th minute spot kick, had Whitley apparently coasting but they p[aid for later complacency. Ross Taylor rounded the keeper to get Rutherford off the mark and with five minutes to go Dean Stewart levelled with a fine header.

With useful games in hand Cullercoats kept the pressure on at the top of the table and, beaten only once this term, they ran out 4-2 victors at home to Berwick United. Paul Wood and Simon Hargreaves scored for Berwick but they’re still seeking their first points away from home. Cullercoats got these ones in the bag thanks to Craig Deighton’s hat-trick and a goal for Sean Smith.

Percy Main lost their fourth away game on the trot, going down 3-1 against Hebburn Reyrolle and they remained in mid-table. First half goals by Chris Morris and Marc Haire put Hebburn in the driving seat. James Ferguson trimmed the deficit for the Main midway through the second half but Haire scored his second in 86 minutes for the home side to see the points secured.

CHARITY CUP – PONT STROLL THROUGH
Two games were played in the Pin Point Recruitment Charity Cup and while one went true to form the other didn’t. As expected Ponteland United coasted through by soundly beating cup visitors Gosforth Bohemian Garnett 6-1 at the Leisure Centre Ground.

Having played only two games since 1st November Pont were in no mood for charity in this first round encounter against Division One opponents. The visitors were stunned after only three minutes when James Hall chested down Andrew Davidson’s cross for Liam McIvor to fire low into the bottom corner. And five minutes later McIvor put Joe Dawson through to double the lead.

McIvor then got his second goal when David Redhead, making a return after four months of injury and suspension, played a through ball to young James Hal. Hall squared to McIvor who netted with a simple tap-in.

Gosforth nearly got one back after 20 minutes when Harry Tulip raced away from the defence but his shot was unluckily deflected onto the post. On the half hour Ponteland’s lead was increased again as McIvor completed his hat-trick, banging in the loose ball when Hall’s drive was parried out.

The impressive Hall got on the score sheet after 35 minutes and United were coasting. To bring a spectacular first half to a close at 6-0 to Ponteland, McIvor got his fourth goal of the game after slick passing between Glenn Ford and the overlapping Mark Dummett.

To their credit, Gosforth battled hard in the second half and never let their heads fall and with five minutes to go they got a deserved consolation goal for their grit and tenacity. John McDonald found the Ponteland net after his colleague Danny Sherwood had gone close.

Ashington Colliers meanwhile should have proved too strong for the First Division cup hosts Newcastle East End but it didn’t pan out that way. The East Enders beat their Premier Division opponents 4-2 and had Anthony Johnson and Paul Bright bagging a brace each to see them through. Both of Ashington’s replies came from David Brown.

With another two ties played to a finish the quarter-final draw in the Charity Cup now reads: Blyth Town v Whitley Bay ‘A’, Ponteland United v Killingworth YPC or Alnwick Town and Carlisle City or Berwick United v Newcastle East End. Red Row Welfare are also still in the hunt after receiving a bye.

NORTHUMBERLAND MINOR CUP – TOO MANY EXITS
Third round ties in the Northumberland Minor Cup, continually held up by the bad weather, finally got the go-ahead to ease the threat of fixture congestion. Last Saturday’s only casualty was Tynemouth United’s home tie with Berwick Town which has been rescheduled for this weekend up at Berwick.

Four Northern Alliance sides – Amble United, North Shields Athletic, Whitley Bay Town and Willington Quay Saints – all fell at the third round hurdle.

At home to league colleagues Killingworth YPC, Amble United were level at 1-1 after extra time with Brad Wake on target for the Seasiders and Jorge Bollado finding the net for Killy. But at the end of the resultant penalty shoot-out Killingworth emerged as 4-3 victors.

In another all-Alliance clash Newcastle BT put paid to the hopes of cup visitors North Shields Athletic by winning 2-1. Dave Thompson and Simon Mattock were BT’s marksmen while Alex Burn replied for the losers.

There were ignominious ends for the Minor Cup aspirations of both Whitley Bay Town and Willington Quay Saints. With no regular keeper available the Town were hammered 6-0 at home by last season’s losing finalists Killingworth YPC Town while the Saints, who reached the quarter-finals last time, were also beaten at home and went down 5-0 against Blyth Town Reserves.

Wallsend Town however kept their flag waving with a comfortable 4-1 victory on their visit to Whitley Lodge Baptist Church. Paul McCutcheon and recent signing Kevin Smith scored two goals each for Wallsend to extend their progress in the competition.

At the Northumberland Minor Cup’s fourth round stage the Northern Alliance will have five clubs definitely in contention. They are Killingworth YPC Sporting, Cullercoats, Newcastle BT, Wallsend Town and Forest Hall. And Amble FC and possibly Tynemouth United could eventually be joining them.

By Bill Gardner
The third round programme in the Northumberland FA Minor Cup – the County’s biggest competition – frequently causes problems as it coincides with the wintry weather. It’s living up to its reputation again this year and the postponements have a knock-on effect as far as fixtures are concerned in leagues like the Northern Alliance.

After two successive blank weekends due to ice, snow and rain, there are eight Alliance hopefuls caught up in the log jam and hoping that the weather relents for this coming Saturday.

Last weekend only three of the Minor Cup games went ahead, including two matches involving Northern Alliance sides. Cullercoats and Forest Hall managed to make progress and Forest Hall were 4-2 victors away to Wallsend Town Reserves to book themselves a last sixteen slot.
Cullercoats meanwhile won 2-1 away to league colleagues Hexham in a very competitive tie. Craig Deighton bagged both the Cullercoats goals in the opening half but they had to battle to retain their advantage. Just recovered from a bad knee injury, Tony Lancaster reduced the deficit for Hexham but they failed in their determined quest for an equaliser.

DIVISION ONE – STOCKSFIELD STENGTHEN POSITION
The league programme suffered badly again with every game in the three divisions wiped out except for the First Division clash between Stocksfield and visitors Hebburn Reyrolle.

Heading the table and only beaten once so far, Stocksfield increased their lead in pole position by winning 5-2 and they’re now four points clear of nearest promotion rivals Whitley Bay ‘A’ with the added bonus of a game in hand.

Visitors Hebburn have suffered a recent dip in form and were soon in trouble, trailing to goals by Stocksfield’s Phil Murray and Ben Pearson at the interval. Pearson netted again after the break to take his personal tally to eleven league goals and Pat Finnerty scored the home side’s fourth. Hebburn rallied with replies from James Keeler and David Jeffers but their hosts still had the last word as Scott Johnson completed the scoring.

DISAPPOINTMENTS IN DURHAM
First Division side Gateshead Rutherford and South Shields United from the Second Division both bowed out of their respective Durham County competitions.

Rutherford, winners in the 2006-2007 season, switched their quarter-final home tie against Brandon British Legion in the Durham Trophy to the all-weather pitch at Gateshead International Stadium but were beaten 3-2. After half an hour they were two down to strikes by Lee Blades and David Hird for their visitors although Hird’s goal looked suspiciously offside.

Rutherford were by far the stronger side in the second half and two quick replies restored parity. Both were claimed by Steve Tumelty and after turning in a low cross at the near post he scored his second with a neat back-header. Steve Wood should have put Rutherford in front but was wide of the mark and his miss proved costly when, from a throw in, Andy Nicholson headed home Brandon’s 84th minute winner.

South Shields United were away to Hendon in the Durham Minor Cup and had their hopes dashed in a penalty shoot-out. Goals for Karl Kennedy (2), Kyle Yorston and Phil Enlund had Shields leading 4-2 at one stage but Hendon got back to 4-4 at the end of extra time. And in the spot kick contest the Sunderland outfit just shaded it to win 5-4.

By Bill Gardner

For the second week running the Northern Alliance programme was almost completely wiped out by the weather with concerns growing about a possible fixture backlog.

The only game played was at Hillheads where Whitley Bay ‘A’ entertained their First Division promotion rivals and current league leaders Stocksfield in a quarter-final tie of the Pin Point Recruitment Combination Cup.

Whitley, the most prolific scoring machine in the league’s First Division along with Cullercoats, lived up to their free-scoring reputation by beating their Tyne Valley visitors 7-3.

Bruce Hogg and Dean Porter bagged a brace each for the Bay in this ten-goal thriller and their other marksmen were Gavin Hattrick, Darren Reay and Daniel Iredale. Stocksfield’s replies came from Wayne Stewart, Anthony MacDonald and Phil Murray but they can’t have envisaged this type of set-back.

Whitley’s convincing victory earned them a semi-final slot away to Cullercoats in the Combination Cup on Saturday 21st February when the other tie will involve Red Row Welfare entertaining Wallington.

Meanwhile, Wallington’s first round home tie against Premier Division opponents Carlisle City in the Longhorn Hardware League Cup suffered a third postponement and has been rescheduled for next Saturday – weather permitting. The winners are due to be at home to Stocksfield in the second round with games having been reduced to instalments because of the weather.

So far only Wallsend Town, Heddon, Walker Central, South Shields United, Amble United and Seaton Delaval are though to the League Cup’s third round stage. Most of the outstanding games will hopefully be played on the last Saturday before Christmas and are: Cramlington Town v Hexham; Forest Hall v Stobswood Welfare; Harraby Catholic v Northbank;
Newcastle University v Benfield Chemfica; Peterlee Town v Wideopen & District;
Wallington or Carlisle City v Stocksfield; Wallsend Boys’ Club v Heaton Stannington;
Wark v Amble and Whitley Bay Town v Cullercoats.

Apart from the League Cup log jam the Northern Alliance’s other main competitions have progressed smoothly. Along with the Combination Cup the Bosch Power Tools Challenge Cup and the Pin Point Recruitment Amateur Cup have both reached the semi-final stage with ties due in February. The Challenge Cup draw in the Premier Division is: Gillford Park v Blyth Town and Heddon v Seaton Delaval. And in the Second Division’s Amateur Cup the semi-final pairings are Amble United v Amble, a real local derby, and Forest Hall v Benfield Chemfica.

TOO MANY CLUBS DEPRIVED OF ACTION
County Cup games are giving Northern Alliance fixture secretaries Derek Booth and George Davison a few extra headaches as the winter weather takes it’s toll. Most of the Northumberland FA Minor Cup games stalled last weekend with thirteen Alliance clubs involved. These rearranged games will take precedence this Saturday along with Gateshead Rutherford’s home tie against Brandon British Legion in the Durham Trophy and South Shields United’s visit to Hendon in the Durham Minor Cup.

Things have been progressing slowly this season as far as league fixtures have been concerned if the Winter proves to be severe then there will be worries about completing fixtures.

Four months into the campaign and with the passing of eighteen available Saturdays there are 24 clubs in the Alliance’s three divisions that haven’t reached a double figure total of league games played so far.

In the Premier Division, Harraby Catholic Club and Newcastle University have been the worst affected although Walker Central and Ashington Colliers will also have some catching-up to do. The First Division’s main laggards through no fault of their own are Killingworth YPC who have played only six league games to date while another five of their colleagues have managed only seven games each. With fewer member clubs the Second Division position isn’t as serious, although Tynemouth United, Stobswood Welfare and Amble FC may face a busy schedule when the lighter nights return.

By Bill Gardner
Due to the heavy overnight frost the game between Cullercoats and Percy Main at Links Road proved to be only one of two played in the Northern Alliance's three divisions as the programme was once again decimated by the weather. Both sides had completed only six league games so far this season due to the frequent postponements.

Recent signings Richard Latimer and Graeme Cole lined up in the Main's colours for the first time, while the Cullercoats starting eleven included five players who had represented the Villagers during the 2005-06 campaign. And David Owen and Craig Deighton were to punish their old club as the Seasiders finally emerged as 4-0 victors.

Early on Percy Main were well on top but were left to rue a series of missed chances which may have changed the course of events, while some inept defending by the Villagers virtually handed the points to their hosts.

In contrast the Cullercoats defence, well marshalled by the vastly experienced Alex Burnett, coped well with the aerial threat posed by the lengthy throw ins of Pierre Coiffait, while in attack Paul Towns and Femi Akinbolu troubled the Main's back line throughout the game.
Both sides endeavoured to seek an early advantage as Akinbolu found Towns, but Rob Rodgerson in the visitors’ goal proved his worth by finger tipping the ball behind for a corner. In response the Main's Dean Morgan was just off target while Jason Ritchie's free kick struck the upright and from the rebound Jon McEnaney and Steven Shadforth both somehow failed to find the net.

Minutes later, Ritchie's measured flag kick was met by the well placed McEnaney who headed just over the crossbar but after 20 minutes Cullercoats opened the scoring. From the right flank Towns found Akinbolu who laid the ball off superbly for Andrew McColl to fire home from close range.

Parity was almost restored immediately as Cole's goal-bound header from another Ritchie corner was acrobatically saved by home custodian Andrew Wedgewood and in the ensuing scramble Coiffait fired into the side netting.

But missed chances proved costly and Cullercoats doubled their lead. Towns provided the ammunition once again and, when his low cross from the right evaded the Villagers defenders, Craig Deighton duly fired home. Then, only a minute later, Cullercoats found themselves three goals to the good as a quickly taken corner fell to David Owen who found himself unmarked to fire home.

Following the interval chances went begging at both ends. Percy Main’s Tony Browell saw his header kicked from the line while Akinbolu headed wide for Cullercoats with the goal at his mercy and then chipped narrowly over the crossbar.

Akinbolu continued to prove the chief threat for Cullercoats and a combined effort by Rodgerson and Browell halted his run on goal. But the Seasiders still had the last word with a fourth goal in stoppage time. Owen took advantage of a deep cross from McColl to steer home his second of the game and round off his side's victory.

Killingworth YPC have also only been beaten once but have only managed to fit in six First Division games since the start of the season. They too therefore have several games in hand to boost their promotion hopes. And Killy moved up another three notches into a threatening fifth spot by beating lowly visitors Red Row Welfare 2-0.

Despite being still pointless and perched on the First Division table’s bottom rung, the Welfare are finally showing promise after bringing in several new players and gave a good account of themselves. They held out and matched their hosts until midway through the second half before conceding a penalty which was clinically put away by Killy’s Andy Edmundsen. And the Red Row lads kept going even after Kevin Westphal raced onto a left wing cross to double his side’s lead in the 78th minute.

HARRABY GRIND OUT COUNTY CUP VICTORY
Harraby Catholic Club beat the weather to reach the quarter-finals of the Cumberland FA Senior Cup but their efforts were stretched to over two hours of football before they eventually ended the hopes of visitors Netherhall.

Respective front runners Lee Otway for Harraby and Andrew Lowes for Netherhall caught the eye in most of the early exchanges. And in the 16th minute when Otway slid the ball invitingly into the path of James Earl his colleague spooned his shot over the bar.

Marc Shiel hit the upright after 25 minutes as Harraby pressed with fine play involving Ashley Combe. Then Otway outstripped the Netherhall defence as he chased a misdirected back pass but was dragged down in the area by visiting keeper Petit. Skipper Mike Swift wasted the chance to give Harraby the lead by sending his spot kick high and wide of the target.

Just before the break Andrew Lowes nearly snatched the lead for Netherhall as he intercepted a wayward pass but was thwarted by a fine save by Harraby custodian Ian Milburn. But it was Harraby who looked the stronger at the beginning of the second half.

An Aaron Rogers pass sent Shiel on a wide run and when he crossed to Otway the striker’s header was spectacularly saved at the foot of the post by Petit. Lowes again tested Milburn on the hour at the other end but Otway was unlucky again for Harraby when Petit was at full stretch tipping his angled drive around the post for a corner.

Visitors Netherhall almost snatched a dramatic winner in the dying seconds of normal time when Lowes spotted Milburn off his line. His 20-yard lob bounced off the top of the bar before being cleared and the well-balanced tie went into extra time.

Andrew Lowes finally broke the deadlock in Netherhall’s favour in the 93rd minute when at the second attempt he fired past Milburn to open the scoring. But the lead only lasted for a couple of minutes before Harraby got back on terms. Substitute Brett Swift’s penetrating pass put Ashley Combe through on goal and the wing-back’s angled drive went beyond Petit into the far corner.

Only seven minutes remained when Harraby scored their second and what proved to be the winning goal. Otway beat off two challenges and used his pace before crossing from the bye-line for Rob Bainbridge who easily side-footed home from close range.

LEAGUE CUP IS SERIALISED
Peterlee Town’s second round home tie against Second Division opponents Wideopen & District in the Longhorn Hardware League Cup was one of the many postponements. And the only sides to have booked third round places so far are: Wallsend Town, Heddon, Walker Central, South Shields United, Amble United and Seaton Delaval.

Most of the outstanding ties will be played on the last Saturday before Christmas and include: Cramlington Town v Hexham; Forest Hall v Stobswood Welfare; Harraby Catholic v Northbank;
Newcastle University v Benfield Chemfica; Peterlee Town v Wideopen & District;
Wallington or Carlisle City v Stocksfield; Wallsend Boys’ Club v Heaton Stannington;
Wark v Amble and Whitley Bay Town v Cullercoats.

By Bill Gardner
Premier Division leaders Gillford Park were within two minutes of losing their unbeaten record but finally settled for a 2-2 draw with visitors Shankhouse in the weekend’s only top flight league game. Shankhouse’s Kevin Gustard scored straight from the kick off and then scored his second to give his side a substantial lead at the interval. Even after Matthew Wood got Gillford off the mark on the hour it looked unlikely that they would get anything out of the game. But in the 88th minute Chris Grainger’s leveller rescued the Cumbrians.

The only game in the First Division saw lowly Berwick United entertaining table-toppers Stocksfield who kicked off boasting a hundred percent record. But the Borderers stunned their visitors by beating them 2-0 and recording their own first league win of the campaign. After an hour of stalemate Paul Wood gave Berwick the lead and Stocksfield found it hard going in their search for an equaliser. They didn’t manage and were killed off ten minutes from the end when Wood bagged his second goal for the jubilant hosts.

In three previously postponed first round ties in the Longhorn Hardware League Cup, Harraby Catholic Club and Northbank both made progress but Wallington’s home game against Carlisle City had to be called off once again.

Harraby beat cup visitors Ashington Colliers 3-1 and after Ashington’s Anthony Wright cancelled out Harraby’s opener scored by Jordan Coulthard, the home side had Lee Otway and James Earl on target in the second half. Meanwhile, Harraby’s neighbours Northbank were 2-1 first round victors at home to Killingworth YPC. Andy Rogerson and Mark Worrall claimed Northbank’s goals with Callum Colbeck replying for the Tynesiders.

Six of the twelve second round matches in the League Cup were wiped out but Premier Division sides Heddon, Walker Central and Seaton Delaval cleared their respective hurdles. And Heddon banged in five goals without reply to sink Second Division opponents Newcastle BT at Bullocksteads where their goals were supplied by John Dunn (2), Andrew Shaw, Chris Douglas and Max Turner.
Cup holders Walker Central also ended the hopes of Second Division visitors North Shields by winning 3-0 at Monkchester. Joe Kennedy’s opener came straight after the interval when he raced onto David Dormand’s cross to find the net from twelve yards out.

Only four minutes later the Central’s lead was doubled as Ian Dunn climbed to meet Kennedy’s cross and scored with a close range header. North Shields continued to come under a lot of pressure and on the hour conceded a third goal. When Dean Mitchison’s drive was well saved by the Shields keeper, Dave Thompson reacted quickly to fire the loose ball home from just inside the area.

Seaton Delaval’s progress wasn’t as comfortable however and after a goal-less two hours away to Willington Quay Saints they scraped through 3-1 on penalties. John Fitzpatrick, Phil Hildreth and Terry Goicochea were successful from the spot for Delaval while Glen Johnson was a lone marksman for the plucky Saints.

Other sides from the league’s First and Second Divisions booking third round slots in the League Cup were Wallsend Town, South Shields United and Amble United. Against Rutherford at Gateshead, Wallsend beat the odds to win 3-2 with strikes by Darren Bell, Paul McCutcheon and Alan Errington.

South Shields United pulled off an excellent 3-0 victory against First Division outfit Chopwell in the cup. United rested several key players and still have another five unavailable due to injuries yet they still outplayed and outclassed a team doing well in the division above them.

After a stalemate first half Shields scored within a minute of the changeover when a great cross from Kyle Yorston was neatly tucked away by Karl Kennedy. United’s young guns continued to play some excellent football and in the 63rd minute doubled their lead thanks to a great diving header by Kennedy for his second goal of the game. Almost immediately United struck again and a clever chipped pass from the impressive Mark Davies was clinically despatched by Yorston. And this was another fine performance by South Shields who had Ryan Shave outstanding in a solid defence.

Amble United beat Second Division colleagues Tynemouth United 6-0 in a tie switched to Amble. Darren Riddell claimed four of their goals with the other two supplied by Ross Gair and Calvin Flanigan.

CHARITY CUP – BLYTH RACE TO VICTORY
Four ties in the Pin Point Recruitment Charity Cup went ahead with Blyth Town, Red Row Welfare, Ponteland United and Whitley Bay ‘A’ all making progress.
Blyth Town, at home to Seaton Burn, won 5-2 with Joe Race – recently released by Hartlepool – completing a hat-trick. But at the interval Seaton Burn were leading 2-0 thanks to Rob MacDonald’s spot kick and another goal for Chris Baker.

Blyth got their act together after the break and Race scored three times to put them in front for the first time. His first goal was set up by Jeff Fuller and his second by Danny Beresford. And the hat-trick was achieved when Race’s cross landed in the net after a deflection off a visiting defender. In the 70th minute Mark Waugh claimed Blyth’s fourth goal from the penalty spot and with a minute to go Lee Middleton completed the scoring with his tremendous 25-yard drive into the top corner.
Red Row Welfare, currently propping up the First Division table, have brought some new signings on board and impressively beat higher-ranked cup hosts Hebburn Reyrolle 3-1. Ben Lavender’s first half opener for the Welfare was cancelled out by Hebburn’s Ray Oshin but the Northumbrians soon rallied. Lavender’s second goal put them in charge again and just to make sure Ryan Cordiner was also on target.

Percy Main’s interest in the league's Charity Cup competition was ended by hosts Whitley Bay ‘A’ and they were beaten 3-1 in an exciting tie at Hillheads. The Main's cause wasn’t helped by the absence of injured front runners Joe Betts and Jon McEnaney but top scorer Mick Freathy proved a handful for the Bay defence while new signing Pierre Coiffait's second half introduction troubled Whitley with some colossal throw-ins reminiscent of Stoke City's Rory Delap.

The home side asked the early questions as Craig Smith's free kick was palmed away by Rob Rodgerson in the Villagers goal while Mathew Speedie's looping header just cleared the crossbar. And the deadlock was broken on the quarter hour when Dean Porter, who once turned out for the Villagers, got the home side off the mark from the edge of the area.

Fifteen minutes later Whitley doubled their lead as Daniel Iredale's deep cross was steered home by Porter from close range but Percy Main rallied. And after Jon McEnaney went close, home goalkeeper Tom Kindley saved Michael Freathy's close range effort. Action continued around the Whitley goal as Freathy brought a point blank save from Kindley and Jason Ritchie saw his deflected shot strike the woodwork.

After the break Percy Main’s Tony Browell sent his diving header just wide while his goalkeeping colleague Rob Rodgerson had to be alert at the other end, saving another Porter effort with his feet. The visitors threw themselves an 83rd minute lifeline when Jason Ritchie's free kick was headed home by Ian Graham. But Whitley skipper Gavin Hattrick sealed his side's victory with a strike three minutes into stoppage time.

In a delayed preliminary round game, Ponteland United beat Premier Division colleagues Murton 2-1 at the Leisure Centre Ground to prolong their Charity Cup interest. Liam McIvor scored both of United’s goals with Murton’s single reply coming from Karl Garside. And United’s first round visitors will now be Gosforth Bohemian Garnett.

By Bill Gardner
Due to cupties there were only four league games in the Premier Division and Alnwick Town wasted the opportunity to nudge Gillford Park off the top of the table.
In the event the Town were beaten 2-0 by hosts Ashington Colliers as their opponents belied their current lowly status. The Colliers had beaten Alnwick 3-2 in the reverse fixture and completed the double with goals in 44 and 88 minutes both scored by Anthony Wright.
Shankhouse also failed in their mission to claim a top four spot and slipped down to sixth after losing 2-1 away to Cramlington Town. Stuart Hepple gave Cramlington an early lead but straight after the break Darren Naylor levelled for the visitors. Only five minutes remained when Andrew Scott grabbed the Town’s winner.
Postponements have prevented defending champions Walker Central from making their mark so far. But they’ve lost only once in the league and a 1-1 draw with Carlisle City at Sheepmount hoisted them up into fifth place with several useful games in hand. David Thompson gave the Central a first half opener but a reply from Chris Kelleher on the hour salvaged a point for City.
Following four straight defeats Wark turned the corner. Their 6-0 home win against Peterlee Town lifted them off the bottom rung which is now occupied by Murton. Jack Wanless’s goal gave Wark a slender interval lead before they stepped up a gear. Marc Nixon completed a second half hat-trick and Phil Thompson and Mark Elliott were also on target. And the troubled Newtowners have secured only a single point from their last five league games.
In the Bosch Power Tools Challenge Cup, the top quarter-final tie was between Cumbrian neighbours Gillford Park and Harraby Catholic Club who lifted the trophy last season. Gillford trailed twice to Harraby goals both scored by Ashley Combe but replies from Chris Grainger and Mark Armstrong earned them a reprieve. Extra time failed to settle the issue and Gillford emerged from the penalty shoot-out as 3-1 victors.
Blyth Town avenged an earlier league defeat by Heaton Stannington and emerged as 4-3 victors in their hard-fought cup-tie at Grounsell Park. Kevin Carr (2) and Chris Hutchinson were on the mark for Heaton but Blyth just edged it.
Patrick Allen got the Town off the mark in the first half with a 30-yard drive from Aaron Hicken’s pass and shortly after the interval Jeff Fuller scored their second. Running onto Chris Taylor’s cross he netted from close range. When Hicken scored from a chance set up by Carl Hetherington the tie seemed to be heading for extra time. But in the 90th minute Hetherington whipped in a great free kick and Fuller was there once more to head home for Blyth’s winner.
Murton’s drop to the foot of the table was compounded by their 3-1 Challenge Cup defeat away to Seaton Delaval who trailed to Karl Garside’s 10th minute opener. The home side snatched the lead with replies from Chris Anderson and Stephen Howes before half time and made sure with a late third goal put away by Craig Johnson.
Heddon gained prompt revenge for last weekend’s league defeat by Newcastle University and beat the Students 4-0 at Cochrane Park thanks to Dave Little’s opener and a hat-trick for Max Turner.

DIVISION ONE – CULLERCOATS KNOCK OUT CUP HOLDERS
In the First Division, two ties in the Pin Point Recruitment Combination Cup were down for decision and both Cullercoats and Wallington booked their places in the semi-finals. Cullercoats won 4-2 at home to last season’s cup winners Gosforth Bohemian Garnett with goals shared by Paul Towns, Stewart Wright, Joe Elliot and Steve Hart. Craig Ewart and Dan Corcoran replied for the disappointed Bohemians.
Wallington also made home advantage count by beating Berwick United 2-1. The two sides had featured in an earlier league draw up at Berwick but Wallington just shaded it this time. They had Ashley McAlpine and Sam Walton on target before Darren Cromarty finally got the Borderers off the mark.
Stocksfield, with a hundred percent record in their eight league starts, replaced Whitley Bay ‘A’ at the head of the First Division table. The Tyne valley outfit were comfortable 7-2 winners away to bottom rung side Red Row Welfare who are still pointless. Ben Pearson completed a hat-trick for the new leaders whose other scorers in a one-sided match were Phil Murray (2), Tom Finnerty and Anthony MacDonald.
Whitley Bay ‘A’ extended their unbeaten run top six games with a 3-3 draw away to Chopwell Officials but slipped down to second place. After having Dean Porter (2) and Mark Fenwick on target with Chopwell replying through Lee Brown, the Bay were leading 3-1 with only ten minutes to go. But their hosts staged a late recovery with strikes by Dave Fitzpatrick and Lee Best earning them a share of the spoils and hoisting them up into third spot.
After winning two games on the trot Gateshead Rutherford were brought back down to earth and were soundly beaten 5-1 at home by up-and-coming Northbank. Mark Worrall banged in all five of the Cumbrians’ goals with Rutherford’s single late reply coming from Danny Hill.
Percy Main have won all three of their home games so far and their latest success at Purvis Park was at the expense of Hebburn Reyrolle. Graeme Troughton opened the scoring for Reyrolle late in the first half and they led until the 70th minute. At that point substitute Sean Potts got the Villagers back on terms, firing home from a Jason Ritchie flag kick. Then, with seven minutes left and from another Ritchie corner, Tony Browell fired past Hebburn keeper Anthony McGowan for the Main’s 2-1 winner.

DIVISION TWO – HEXHAM CLOSE TO CAUSING CUP UPSET
There were four quarter-final ties in the Pin Point Recruitment Amateur Cup affecting Second Division sides with Forest Hall, Amble United, Amble Town and Benfield Chemfica all making progress.
Amble United had hammered cup hosts Hexham 6-0 up at Amble in an earlier league encounter but had to be content with a more modest 2-1 success this time. Lee Harker and Chris Moffitt struck to give United a clear interval lead but there were some anxious moments after Ian Strachan reduced the deficit for Hexham.
Amble Town did well to beat cup hosts Stobswood Welfare 2-1 and they simultaneously avenged a 3-0 defeat by the Welfare in the identical league game. Stobswood threatened a repeat when Matthew Graham fired them in front but Amble responded positively with two goals both scored by Dave Whenray.
Forest Hall ended the cup hopes of visitors Willington Quay Saints by winning 2-1 but it was a close thing. Kevin Baldwin gave the hosts the lead and it was doubled by Willington’s Stephen Telefoni when he steered the ball into his own net. The Saints threatened a recover after Gareth Pugh got them off the mark but the Forest defence held firm.
Despite having home advantage, Wallsend Boys’ Club failed to complete a league and cup double and instead were beaten 4-1 by Benfield Chemfica. Simon Bell was a lone marksman for the Boys’ Club while an own goal plus strikes by Liam Knowles (2) and Chris Jones made up Chemfica’s tally.
With the game between Tynemouth United and Whitley Bay Town postponed, there were only two league games going ahead in the Second Division. And South Shields United extended their lead at the top of the table to five points although second-placed Amble United have two games in hand. The Shieldsmen beat visitors Wallsend Town 1-0 to stretch their unbeaten sequence to seven matches. Their winner was put away in the 35th minute by Kyle Yorston who was red-carded in the 85th minute. Losers Wallsend had three players booked and are still seeking their first point away from home.
Wideopen & District are still in third place after losing their hundred percent away record. They were beaten 2-0 by a fast improving North Shields Athletic side which has lost only once in the last six outings. After a goal-less opening half Daniel Walton bagged a brace to get the points wrapped up for the home side.

THIRTEEN LEFT IN NFA MINOR CUP
In three delayed ties in the Northumberland Minor Cup involving Northern Alliance sides there were two failures and only one success. Seaton Burn bowed out after losing 3-1 at home against Whitley Lodge Baptist Church and Newcastle East End were beaten 4-1 by hosts Red Star Benwell.
Killingworth YPC Sporting however made comfortable progress with a 5-1 home win against North Sunderland thanks to goals supplied by Jorge Bollado (2), Anthony Burns, Kevin Westphal and Kevin Grahamslaw.
The Northern Alliance will now have 13 clubs involved in the third round of the Minor Cup on 6th December with the relevant pairings being: Amble v Procter & Gamble Cobalt;
Amble United v Killingworth YPC Sporting; Hexham v Cullercoats;
Newcastle BT v North Shields Athletic; Whitley Lodge Baptist Church v Wallsend Town;
Stobswood Welfare v Kicks Wallsend; Tynemouth United v Berwick Town;
Wallsend Town Reserves v Forest Hall; Whitley Bay Town v Killingworth YPC Town;
Willington Quay Saints v Blyth Town Reserves.

By Bill Gardner
Premier Division pacesetters Gillford Park had their match away to defending champions Walker Central postponed but still have a two-point lead in pole position with games in hand of all their closest rivals.
Challengers Seaton Delaval and Alnwick Town secured maximum points, leapfrogging over several of their rivals to go joint second. Only beaten once in their last five outings, Alnwick were convincing 3-0 winners away to Heaton Stannington. Heaton's slide down the table continued as the Town's Ben Keenan punished them with his hat-trick.

Delaval won only their second game away from home with a 2-1 verdict at Cramlington Town but needed a late winner to see off their hosts. Cramlington trailed to Connal Reed's opener but Stuart Heppell got them back on terms with ten minutes to go. Only five minutes remained when John Fitzpatrick weighed in with Delaval's winner.

Only four points are separating the top seven clubs in the Premier Division with teams like Heddon, Shankhouse, Harraby Catholic Club, Peterlee Town and Walker Central hoping to get to grips with the current leaders.

Heddon slipped up on Saturday however and were beaten for the first time this term at their Bullocksteads based. They lost out 2-1 to an impressive Newcastle University side which has won four of its last five games. Top scorer Dave Kewn and Will Deledicq netted for the Students in the space of two second half minutes and Heddon's single later reply came from John Dunn.

Peterlee Town had followed a five-match winning sequence with three straight defeats before Shankhouse's visit to Eden Lane. The two sides were content with a share of the spoils from a 1-1 draw. John Pearce ended 76 minutes of stalemate with his opener for Peterlee but with four minutes to spare Shankhouse levelled through Kevin Gustard.

In their bottom of the table battle with bottom rung visitors Wark there was a vital 3-1 victory for Blyth Town, only their second on their own patch. Jeff Fuller opened the scoring for Blyth immediately after the break, converting a through ball from Chris Taylor. Matt McLoughlin equalised for Wark in the 84th minute but it wasn't all over however. Blyth secured all three points with strikes in 88 and 90 minutes by Aaron Hicken and Chris Taylor. Hicken's drive went in off the crossbar when he was sent clear by Oliver Cowie and Taylor netted from just inside the box following good work by Chris Lisle.

Carlisle City were 3-2 losers at home by Aspatria in the Cumberland Senior Cup while Harraby Catholic Club went down 2-1 to Cheshire visitors Poulton Victoria in the Northern Counties Senior Championship. Meanwhile, in the second round of the Durham FA Trophy, last season's winners Murton bowed out, beaten 5-2 by visitors Simonside SC. But Gateshead Rutherford made progress and in a 1-0 victory over Ebchester Consett Reserves their scorer was Stephen Tumelty.

DIVISION ONE – CUMBRIANS SURPRISE WHITLEY
Only three league games beat the weather in an already restricted First Division programme and leaders Whitley Bay 'A' spilled a couple of points. At Hillheads the Bay lost their hundred percent home record and could only draw 2-2 with mid-table opponents Northbank. Still seeking a first win on their travels, the Cumbrians produced a sound performance which produced two goals for their regular scorer Mark Worrall. In reply Jonathan Kew and Simon Reay scored for Whitley.

Whitley Bay's lead at the top of the division was trimmed to only a single point by Stocksfield who have three useful games in hand. With a hundred percent records in seven starts the Tynedale outfit had to work hard for their 3-2 victory at home to Wallington. Despite being in the lower half of the table, Wallington had Tom McPherson and David Featherstone on target and gave their highly-rated hosts a torrid time. In the end however Stocksfield just edged it to claim the points. Running onto Ben Pearson's pass Tom Finnerty scored his first goal for the club to open Stocksfield's account. Their second goal was put away by Cairns Kettles who headed home Bruce Vause's cross at the back post and from Graeme Watson's perfect cross Phil Murray headed in for the home side's vital winner.

In their last seven games Chopwell Officials have picked up five wins and a draw and almost unnoticed have been creeping up on the current leaders. And they slipped quietly into third spot after beating visitors Percy Main 2-1.

On the quarter hour mark Chopwell opened the scoring Gareth Powell squared to Rowland Lee who fired past the unsighted Rob Rodgerson in the Percy Main goal. But parity was soon restored as Chris Lau slid the ball through to Joe Betts who managed to scramble the ball past home keeper Graeme Clark at the second attempt.
With twenty minutes to go Chopwell countered in deadly fashion as Glen Caygill's corner, only half cleared by the Villagers' defence, fell kindly to Mark Fitzpatrick who rifled home a 30-yard thunderbolt via the crossbar to restore his side's lead.

DIVISION TWO – SHIELDS NUDGE AMBLE OFF THE TOP
Two games – Tynemouth United versus Newcastle BT and Wideopen & District versus Amble - were washed out in the Second Division but another four got the go-ahead. And South Shields United replaced Amble United in pole position.

While former table-toppers Amble had an idle Saturday, South Shields took full advantage and extended their unbeaten run to six games by beating visitors Benfield Chemfica 2-1. Colin Cooney netted for Chemfica but they're still waiting for their first points away from home after Kyle Yorston bagged a brace for their hosts.

With third-placed Wideopen & District also out of action Stobswood Welfare improved their standing, moving up into fourth spot following their 2-1 victory away to Whitley Bay Town. The Bay produced a brave performance considering they had Lee Savory sent off after half an hour. The Welfare's match-winning marksmen were Michael Hogg and Chris Graham with Garry Milburn replying for the plucky losers.

Stobswood's fellow-newcomers Forest Hall also continued their climb up the table with a 2-1 win at home to Wallsend Town. Ryan Arnott opened the scoring for the Town but his gal failed to prevent his side's fourth consecutive defeat. Kevin Baldwin came on as substitute to bang in both of Forest Hall's goals.

Wallsend Boys' Club seem to have lost their winning habit, sharing six goals and the spoils with visitors North Shields Athletic in a mid-table clash. Kyle Moffatt, Andy McBride and Stephen Forster supplied the Wallsend goals. Glen Churchman (2) and Matthew Donkin scored for the Shieldsmen who have now won three and drawn one of their last five games.

NFA MINOR CUP – HEXHAM KNOCK OUT HOLDERS
As usual the weather has meant that Northumberland Minor Cup matches are being played in instalments but three more Northern Alliance sides managed to book places in the third round of the county's biggest competition.
Hexham, fourth from bottom in the Alliance's Second Division, caused a sensation by winning 3-1 at home to last season's cup winners Shilbottle CW. Darren Dobson gave Hexham a lead which was doubled by Ian Strachan before the break. Strachan's second strike put the home side in an unassailable position and Alan Wallace's successful spot kick for Shilbottle was purely cosmetic.

Cullercoats coasted through with an 11-1 victory at home to Newcastle Rushworth & Diamonds. The Diamonds lost their sparkle as incessant Cullercoats pressure was rewarded with goals for Steve Hart (4), Craig Deighton (3), Sean Smith, Joe Elliott, Stewart Wright and substitute Femi Akinbolu.

Willington Quay Saints made progress by beating cup hosts Bellingham 4-1 and had David Gibson and Gareth Pugh on the mark to give them a clear lead at half time. Pugh scored his second straight after the changeover and, after Graham Teasdale hit back for the home side, the winners' tally was completed by Glen Johnson who scored from the penalty spot.
Three other ties with Northern Alliance involvement were wiped out for the second week running and rescheduled for this Saturday. Killingworth YPC and Seaton Burn are at home to respective opponents North Sunderland and Whitley Lodge Baptist Church while Newcastle East End are away to Red Star Benwell.

By Bill Gardner
Gillford Park retained their three-point lead at the head of the Premier Division despite dropping their first home points. Still unbeaten, the Cumbrians were restricted to a 2-2 draw by Cramlington Town with both of their goals put away by Michael Riding. Cramlington had Kieran Parsons and Steve Elsey on target and deserved their share of the spoils.

With Harraby Catholic Club on county cup duty they were nudged out of second spot by Heddon who secured their first away win. After drawing four of their last six games on their travels the Heddon lads beat Peterlee Town 1-0. Team manager Paul Callan and secretary Billy Banks deserted the Newtowners last week and John Dunn’s 40th minute winner for Heddon was another blow.
Following a slow start to this campaign, last season’s champions Walker Central are finally firing on all cylinders. A week after knocking West Allotment Celtic out of the Northumberland Senior Cup the Central were impressive 6-1 victors away to Ponteland United to hoist themselves up into fourth place.

Walker had knocked Pont out of the League Cup only a fortnight earlier and they were soon on course for a double. Ex-Ponteland player Paul Gardiner opened their account with his long range effort following John Campbell’s corner kick.

On the half hour the visitors’ lead was doubled when Dave Thompson netted from a chance created by Campbell and there was no respite for embattled Ponteland. Shortly before the break they conceded a third goal as Thompson struck again with a thundering 18-yard drive.

After the break United regained some composure but they came under the hammer again midway through the half. Walker’s Campbell scored twice in the space of eight minutes. His first goal was set up by Ian Mills and his second by Chris Bannon.

With two minutes to go the Central’s tally was topped up by David Dormand who finished well after racing onto Ben Miley’s through ball. And only seconds remained when Dean Gate claimed a token reply for the home side.

Seaton Delaval and visitors Heaton Stannington had both been going through a lean spell before their clash at Wheatridge Park. But Delaval emerged as 3-0 victors to suggest they may be turning things around. Their marksmen, all inside the last twenty minutes, were Stephen Howes, Steve Anderson and Craig Johnson to leave Heaton without a win in their last six league games.
Wark are another side to have gone off the boil in the last month and three straight defeats have dumped the newly-promoted club onto the bottom rung. The damaging run continued and despite having Jack Wanless finding the net Wark ended up as 3-1 losers at home to Newcastle University. The Students wrapped up the points with a hat-trick for leading scorer David Kewn.

A first home win for Blyth Town earned Jeff Orr’s side some breathing space in the basement and they moved up a couple of notches by beating Murton 4-2. Jonathan Mann (hat-trick) and Jeff Fuller put Blyth 4-0 up after only twenty minutes and although Karl Garside and Michael Pittam hit back for Murton before the break they couldn’t make any further headway.

Shankhouse’s home game against Alnwick Town in the Premier Division was postponed along with Carlisle City’s home tie with Aspatria in the Cumberland Senior Cup. But City’s league colleagues Harraby Catholic Club made progress in the competition. They beat visitors Alston Moor Sports Club 6-0 with goals supplied by Rob Bainbridge (3), Lee Otway (2) and Dave Wallace.

DIVISION TWO – SHIELDS THREATEN AMBLE
The weather accounted for the entire league programme in the First Division but the single Second Division fixture got the go-ahead with South Shields United beating visitors Wallsend Boys’ Club 2-0. The result hoisted Shields into second spot, only a point short of current leaders Amble United with both clubs having played ten games.

The normally reliable Kyle Yorston wasted a couple of first ha\lf chances for the home side but a few tactical changes worked out for Shields. Wayne McCamley and Gary Spottiswood kept opponents Wallsend busy and inside a five minute spell Phil Enlund bagged a brace for United.

NFA MINOR CUP – WINNERS. LOSERS & SECOND CHANCES
Seventeen Northern Alliance clubs should have been involved in second round ties in the Northumberland Minor Cup but the weather intervened and six games were postponed. Killingworth YPC, Newcastle East End, Seaton Burn, Willington Quay Saints, Cullercoats and Hexham will be trying again to make progress this weekend.

In the other matches which were played to a finish, nine Alliance sides booked themselves third round slots in the Minor Cup and 2007 winners Amble United were 7-0 victors away to Grainger Park. The Seasiders were three up at half time thanks to Darren Riddell (2) and Paul Brennan and their later goals were supplied by Ross Gair (2), Greg Dance and Bradley Wake.

United’s neighbours Amble Town were also emphatic second round winners and beat cup hosts Gosforth Bohemian Garnett ‘A’ 5-0 with goals shared by Ben Davidson, Craig Jones, Shaun Jobson, James Todd and Nick Moore.

Despite having Ryan Stobbard, Nick Guest and Mark Crow on target at home to Lowick United, Benfield Chemfica bowed out as 4-3 losers with Anthony Murray (3) and Gary Fairbairn scoring for the visitors. But Wallsend Town easily made the cut by winning 6-1 away to Blyth Spartans ‘A’. Darren Bell completed a hat-trick and a long wind-assisted clearance allowed Wallsend’s keeper Ricky Donaldson to get his name on the score-sheet. Alan Etherington and Graham McMillan completed the Town’s tally.

Tynemouth United, on the bottom rung of the Northern Alliance’s Second Division table, claimed their first victory of the season against Minor Cup hosts Craster Rovers. The Tynemouth lads were encouraged by their convincing 7-3 success and four of their goals were tucked away by Mark Carey. They had Steve Clarke scoring from the spot and their other two strikes were by Gareth Lee and Paul Neilson.

In the round’s only all-Northern Alliance clash, Forest Hall – cup winners way back in 1978 – proved too strong for hosts and league colleagues Wideopen & District. Neil Gibson, Michael Sandberg and Thomas Carver all found the net in the Forest’s eventual 3-0 victory.

Newcastle BT, North Shields Athletic, Stobswood Welfare and Whitley Bay Town were the other Alliance sides clearing their respective second round hurdles.

Newcastle BT ended the hopes of Whitley Bay Baptist Church and won 4-2 with goals scored by Anthony Bruce (2), Tom Walton and Andy Mackay. And Daniel Walton scored a hat-trick for North Shields Athletic in their 4-1 victory away to Newcastle Dynamo Fenham. John Mordey banged in the winners’ fourth goal.

Whitley Bay Town were content with a narrow 3-2 verdict at home to Lindisfarne Athletic who put up a brave fight before losing to goals put away by Lee Hall, Jamie Wallace and Iain Irvin. Stobswood Welfare however coasted through and were comfortable 7-1 victors to see off visitors Forest Hall Town. Kerry Shotton help[ed himself to three of the Welfare’s goals, his colleague Josh Hay bagged a brace and Michael Graham and Michael Hogg were the other Stobswood marksmen.

By Bill Gardner

Despite being on county cup duty, Gillford Park retained their three-point lead at the head of the Premier Division as Shankhouse and Peterlee Town both faltered.

Gillford beat visitors and league colleagues Northbank 2-1 in the second round of the Cumberland Senior Cup. Mark Armstrong gave them an interval lead that was doubled when Northbank’s Andy Rogerson put the ball into his own net. Mark Worrall reduced the deficit for Northbank but they made no further headway.

Two other Cumberland Senior Cup matches – Carlisle City v Aspatria and Harraby Catholic v Alston Moor Sports Club – were washed out and will be rescheduled for next weekend.

Second-placed Harraby could have been replaced but league results went in their favour and Shankhouse were beaten 2-1 at home by Murton. Goals for Mark Smith and Karl Garside earned Murton their first away points and their hosts’ single reply came from Andrew Sherlaw.

Peterlee Town, in joint third spot with Shankhouse and Alnwick Town, missed out on making further progress and after winning four home games on the trot were also beaten 2-1 by visitors Cramlington Town. Cramlington’s James Merzio presented the Newtowners with an own goal opener but his colleagues rose to the challenge. After the break Kevin Ord and Paul Huck found the net to wrap up the points for the Northumbrians.

Heaton Stannington and Heddon, occupying joint fourth spot in the Premier Division, shared the spoils in a 1-1 draw at Bullocksteads where Heddon previously had a hundred percent record. Jon Armstrong put the home side in front just before the interval but shortly after the change-over Adam Pendlebury levelled for Heaton.

In the clash between Ashington Colliers and Wark the two sides trying to get clear of the basement produced ten goals but hosts Ashington scored eight of them. The Colliers claimed their first home win in style thanks to Anthony Wright’s hat-trick and further strikes by Simon Cunningham (2), Patrice Butters (2) and Richard Brown. Lee Telfer and Phil Thompson replied for the losers.

Newcastle University lifted off the table’s bottom rung thanks to their 3-1 victory over Seaton Delaval at Cochrane Park. Chris Anderson opened the scoring for Delaval but Dave Kewn got the Students back on terms before half time. Sam Newton’s goal then gave the University the lead and Joe Foote put their third goal away in the last minute.

Ponteland United returned to Blyth, their second visit in three weeks, looking to avenge their Challenge Cup defeat by Blyth Town. Pont had two early chances but were undone in Blyth’s first attack. Oliver Cowie got the better of Groom and his cross was headed neatly home by the unmarked Lee Sparrow. But the visitors got back on terms on 20 minutes as McIvor crossed from the bye line for youngster Scott Fenwick to apply the finishing touch. And only five minutes later Pont were in front for the first time as Phil Groom’s free kick set up 16-year-old James Hall to drill home his first ever goal for Ponteland.

Five minutes into the second half United’s Fenwick was brought down in the box and opted to take the spot kick himself. Unfortunately for the youngster keeper Scott Earle made an excellent diving save to palm the ball to safety.

After this miss Blyth equalised when Patrick Allen’s cross was hammered in at the back post by Jeff Fuller and Pont were hit again after 65 minutes as Allen sent in another looping cross for Jonathan Lisle to score with a powerful header.

Ponteland made some changes with Kevin McGorie coming on for Hall and David Redhead replacing Suddick. And in the 75th minute Liam McIvor netted for the visitors to finalise the score at 3-3, a fair result but one that left Pont ruing their penalty miss.

Meanwhile, Walker Central became the Alliance’s sole survivors in the Tynetec Northumberland Senior Cup and did the league proud by knocking out Northern League opponents West Allotment Celtic. At a wind-lashed Monkchester the Central were 1-0 first round victors with their vital goal scored by Craig Scott.

DIVISION ONE – CHOPWELL’S CUP COMEBACK SHOCKS WHITLEY
Last Friday night at Hillheads, First Division leaders Whitley Bay ‘A’ took a break from league duties to take on Chopwell Officials in a rearranged first round tie in the Longhorn Hardware League Cup. And the Bay, leading 4-0 at half time, were finally and sensationally beaten 5-4 by their visitors. Goals for Ian Lee, Dean Porter, Gavin Hattrick and Sean Jobson had Whitley apparently coasting but Chopwell hit back with a vengeance as Andy Smith completed a hat trick and his colleague Rowland Lee bagged a brace.

Whitley Bay still held onto pole position in the middle division after send-placed Stocksfield won 2-0 away to Cullercoats who remained in third spot. The result in this vital game ended an unbeaten run for Cullercoats while leaving their opponents with a hundred percent record in their six games to date. Phil Murray put both of Stocksfield’s goals away.

Both Hebburn Reyrolle and Killingworth YPC are still coming up on the rails and Hebburn were restricted to a 1-1 draw by hosts Gosforth Bohemian Garnett. The Bohs, yet to win at Benson Park this term, had Craig Allan on target while Graeme Troughton replied for the visitors.
In their first away game of the season Killingworth picked up maximum points from their 3-0 victory over Berwick United. Kevin Grahamslaw bagged two of Killy’s goals and Anthony Burns completed their tally.

Having secured two wins and a draw in their last three outings, Newcastle East End have hitched themselves up into mid-table. The East Enders comfortably beat bottom rung visitors Red Row Welfare 3-0 to continue their progress. Paul Bright (2) and Craig Crosby netted for the winners with Ryan Gardiner replying for the Welfare who are still waiting for their first league win.

Percy Main, beaten 2-0 by Gateshead Rutherford at Prudhoe in midweek, bounced back effectively by beating Wallington 3-2 at Purvis Park. Wallington’s Ashley McAlpine scored twice to cancel out the Main’s goals by Joe Betts and Michael Freathy to make it all square with ten minutes to go, But the Villagers picked up the points when Jason Ritchie fired against the crossbar and Betts reacted quickly to drive in his second goal of the game.

Goals by Andrew Elliot and Andrew Reay earned Gateshead Rutherford their midweek success against Percy Main and they followed up by claiming their first away win of the campaign. At Seaton Burn the Gateshead lads won 4-2 after having Andrew Reay (2), Ross Taylor and Daniel Hall on target. Seaton Burn’s 49-year-old team boss Dave Hewitt came on as substitute to score one of their goals and their other reply came from Rob McDonald with a 35-yard free kick.

DIVISION TWO – PACE-SETTERS DROP POINTS
In the Second Division, Wallsend Boys’ Club brought forward their Northumberland Minor Cup second round tie away to Lynemouth Miners’ Welfare Social Club and were beaten 1-0. There was an interesting point in the game when Lynemouth brought on a player who had up to that point been involved in another match on an adjacent pitch!

Back on the league front, Amble United remained four points clear at the head of the table despite only managing to draw 2-2 with mid-table visitors Forest Hall. United scored first and last through Ross Gair and Shaun Black but in the interim Thomas Faid and Michael Reay netted for Forest to preserve their unbeaten record in away games.

Luckily for Amble United, second-placed Wideopen & District – their nearest rivals – also shared the spoils frfom their 1-1 draw at home to Willington Quay Saints. The Saints are still waiting for a first win on their travels and came close after Stuart Duffield had cancelled out Gary Lamb’s opener for the hosts.

South Shields United are occupying a threatening third spot and have secured four wins and a draw in their last five league appearances. The spell of good form continued as United beat lowly visitors Hexham 1-0. The strong wind was a great leveller but with twenty minutes to go Phil Enlund managed to grab the South Shields winner.

Following three straight defeats in the Second Division, Wallsend Town were pleased to get back on track and manager Dave Grandini was delighted by his side’s 4-0 home win against Newcastle BT. Paul McCutcheon scored twice for the Town and their other marksmen were Nick Anderson and Darren Bell.

Benfield Chemfica moved themselves up a couple of notches with a narrow 2-1 victory at home to Amble Town who are still stuck in the basement. Amble’s Nick More levelled after Nick Guest opened the scoring for Chemfica but the home side had the last word in the form of a Chris Jones match-winner.

Whitley Bay Town are only four points above bottom club Tynemouth United but picked up another precious point by drawing 1-1 with visitors North Shields Athletic. Dominic Vasseghi gave the Town an opener on the half hour. They led until the 75th minute when defender Lee Savory was sent off and from the related penalty David Armstrong scored the North Shields equaliser.