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 Turner was withdrawn with a hamstring problem and Holden suffered knee ligament damage in a collision with Delaval keeper Thompson.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

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 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
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.