West Auckland vs Guisborough Town – League game (08/08/2017)

My first visit to a league game this season took me to the Wanted Stadium, home of West Auckland. A ground I had never visited before tonight, but one I’ll definitely be looking to go back to when the heavens aren’t well and truly opened.

West Auckland’s visitors tonight were Guisborough Town. Guisborough had an exceptionally poor start to last season that was only, just about, recovered towards the back end after their relegation was overturned following an appeal to the FA. So Guisborough would obviously be looking to get off to the best possible start to avoid all that happening again. But it wouldn’t be an easy game, against a very strong West Auckland side, in not very favourable weather conditions.

West Auckland were the side that got us underway, but the first chance fell to the visitors. A smart ball to Thomas Bligh from Connor Smith was crossed invitingly into the West Auckland penalty area. Guisborough’s Nathan Steel was the player who met the ball with his head, only to see his shot go narrowly past the post and out for a goal kick. Hopefully a sign of things to come for the travelling Guisborough faithful!

But it wasn’t to be, as it was West Auckland who struck first after some smart play in the centre of the park. The ball was played out wide to Jack Walker who put a sublime ball into the area which was met confidently by Nathan Fisher who prodded the ball towards goal and past the helpless Jordan Nixon. 1-0 to the home side after just 8 minutes.

And just two minutes later, West Auckland had their second. A smart run from Amar Purewall was attempted to be stopped, only for the ball to fall back at his feet and 1 on 1 with the Guisborough keeper. Purewall confidently finished past the outrushing Nixon to make it 2-0 to the home side, who now looked firmly in control of the game. ‘It’s a long time since we’ve been two goals up after 10 minutes’ is what a West Auckland supporter had said to me shortly after the previous goal. He had a lot more to look forward to!

And, surprisingly enough, it was soon 3-0. Amar Purewall, again, was slotted through very smartly, beating Guisborough Town’s offside trap. Feeling déjà vu from 8 minutes ago, Purewall again finished smartly past the outrushing Nixon. You could hear the shock from the West Auckland fans as they started laughing between themselves as opposed to cheering. It would be a long evening for Guisborough if they didn’t change something soon.

It wasn’t the best first half of the season for Guisborough so far, but they kept on fighting and attempted to get forward. But West Auckland matched Guisborough exceptionally well, staying very professional, even with their comfortable lead. Guisborough had one more meaningful shot in the first half, with Steven Roberts laying the ball off to Ben Hugill. Hugill’s powerful shot went just past the post, but a clear sight of goal that really needed to be capitalised on at this stage of the game.

But, apart from some speculative efforts from both sides, the first half finished 3-0. West Auckland very much in the driver’s seat, but if they can score three goals in 45 minutes, so can Guisborough, as long as they didn’t let their heads go down.

As Guisborough kicked the second half off, the main thing they had to focus on was sticking together and ensuring it didn’t get any worse for themselves. And, for 12 minutes, they did just that. Playing some very good Football, the away side created some promising opportunities for themselves, but couldn’t work any clear chances.

Unfortunately for Guisborough, it was West Auckland who managed to get the next goal, and almost putting the game out of the away side’s reach. West Auckland’s Amar Purewall passed the ball across to Nathan Fisher, who finished very well and secured his second goal of the game. It was noticeable at this point that the away side had started to become a bit demoralised and frustrated, lunging needlessly into tackles and losing the ball very easily. 4-0 to the home side, with little over 30 minutes still to play.

The next real memorable moment of the game, again, came from West Auckland. A fairly average corner was whipped in for the home side. The corner was cleared by the Guisborough defence as far as West Auckland’s Michael McKeown who sent the ball back into the area. The ball was flicked on to Nathan Fisher who headed easily into an almost empty net to make it 5-0, and grabbing his hattrick in the process.

It was starting to get out of hand for the away side now, with everything seemingly going against them. And so it would prove in the 71^st minute – A freekick sent into the Guisborough box ricocheted around before somehow going into the back of the net. I couldn’t see what happened too well from where I was standing, but it was Matthew Lovatt with the OG, although Nathan Fisher definitely wanted to claim it.

And it was soon seven! West Auckland substitute Denver Morris passed the ball across the edge of the area to another substitute, Ben Wood. Wood struck the ball sweetly, being described as a ‘thunderbolt’ by the West Auckland Twitter team, straight past the helpless Nixon in the Guisborough net to make it 7-0. I don’t think anyone had predicated this from the start but, from a neutral point of view, it was a perfect night. West Auckland were still massively up for this game and, with 15 minutes left on the clock, there was plenty of time to add to their tally.

To the 77^th minute, and it was West Auckland still powering forward. Some smart play around the Guisborough area from Morris and Wood, again, found some space for a cute little pass across to Amar Purewall, who sliced under the keeper, making it 8-0. The previous goal also made Purewall the second player to score a hattrick tonight – an achievement I’ve never seen before in a league game.

And the home side saved the best until last! A West Auckland corner, taken by Adam Mitchell, was cleared well by the Guisborough defence, only to fall to Michael McKeown, who struck the ball from 20 yards. The resulting shot kept rising and rising, until it found the top of Nixon’s net, making it 9-0 to the home side.

And that’s how it finished.

West Auckland 9 (nine) – Guisborough Town 0

I’ve got a lot of love for Guisborough Town, and I hope tonight was just one to get out of the way early so they can crack on and have a great season, because they deserve it! But West Auckland were superb tonight, and they didn’t allow Guisborough a moments peace.

The Wanted Stadium was my 25^th North East ground visited, and not very many games will be as memorable as this one was! Best of luck to both teams for the forthcoming season.

Northern Premier League new boys – 2017/2018

As a new season begins, and teams start to ready themselves for their preseason campaign, it’s about time we welcome the six new sides in the Northern Premier League, and start to get to know them a bit better!

As you probably already know, two teams get promoted out of the Northern Premier; one outright, and one via the playoffs. Relegation captures four teams per season, leaving room for six new teams to ply their trade in the Northern Premier.

The first of these teams is Altrincham FC, who were relegated into the Northern Premier from the National League North, having finished on just 21 points from 42 games. Altrincham’s ground, Moss Lane, has a capacity of just over 6000, with 1154 seated.

Altrincham have almost been a ‘yoyo’ club throughout their recent history, culminating in successive relegations after finishing in the relegation places of the newly renamed Vanarama National League back in the 2015/2016 season. But they’ll be looking to bounce straight back to the National League North, and have recently signed former Hartlepool and Salford FC star James Poole, which is a huge statement of intent. Poole has Northern Premier experience, having won a hard fought promotion with Salford two seasons ago, beating Workington 3-2 in the play-off final.

Altrincham definitely have the experience needed to win promotion at the first attempt, and they will no doubt continue to bolster their lines in order to have the best possible chance. But we all know it’s a tough league, so they’ll have to continually be at their best to see their plan come to life.

Predicted finish: 2^nd.

The next team we can take a look at is Farsley Celtic, based in West Yorkshire. Throstle Nest, home of Farsley Celtic, has a capacity of 3900, with 300 of those being seated. Farsley won promotion to the Northern Premier the hard way, having finished second in the First Division North, after being narrowly pipped at the post by another Northern Premier new boy, Lancaster FC. Farsley drew Colne in the play-off semi finals, and confidently defeated them 4-0 to set up a final against Ossett Town. Farsley went on to win the final 4-2, and rightfully earn them a place in the Northern Premier; a target they’d had a majority of the back-end of the season.

But it hasn’t always been plain sailing for The Villagers. Financial problems in the 2009/2010 season led to them going into administration in March 2010, after being unable to fulfill fixtures. This ultimately led to the team being disbanded on the 10^th March 2010. But the club was reformed, playing as Farsley A.F.C. The newly reformed side have had a relatively successful history, leading them to where they are now. In 2015, Farsley A.F.C welcomed back the name Farsley Celtic.

And to hit the ground running, the Celts have brought in experienced defender Danny Ellis from Harrogate Town. Farsley manager, Adam Lakeland, said he could ‘not be more delighted’ to bring in Ellis. I’m sure the rest of the Northern Premier will be keeping an eye on the newly promoted side, and any more new investments they make before the season begins. Newly promoted sides often have a good first season in the Northern Premier, such as Spennymoor who won promotion at the first attempt last season, so Farsley Celtic might be a surprise package.

Predicted finish: 5^th.

Third on the list of Northern League new boys are Lancaster City FC. The Dolly Blues play their home games at Giant Axe. Giant Axe holds 3500 spectators, of which 513 are seated. The 513 seat main stand is named after the club’s late president, John Bagguley. Lancaster secured Northern Premier Football by winning the First Division North, after finishing just one point ahead of Farsley Celtic.

And, despite it being two weeks before the preseason gets underway, boss Phil Brown has already strengthened his side to the point where it’s ‘just about done’ for the beginning of the Northern Premier season. City have bolstered the side with six fresh faces, having also tied up a lot of the side that won last season’s title.

It’s a new era for Lancaster, with current manager Phil Brown only just finishing his first full season at the helm. But Brown is definitely doing the right things, and only time will tell how they get on in the higher division. But with a mixture of energetic youth, and vast experience, it looks like they’re in the best possible position to tackle next season.

Predicted Finish: 10^th.

Next up is Shaw Lane, based in Barnsley. Nicknamed ‘The Ducks’, Shaw Lane was only formed in 2012, as Shaw Lane Aquaforce, although this name had to be changed to comply with FA regulations due to their success in climbing the ladder. Shaw Lane achieved promotion to the Northern Premier after winning the First Division South. Shaw Lane had a brilliant season, finishing on 102 points, and only dropping six points at home all season. In fact, in their five season existence, they’ve only failed to win promotion once, back in the 2015/2016 season.

And, despite being fairly inexperienced, Shaw Lane do have some history against Northern Premier sides. Having drawn Whitby Town at home in the FA Trophy, Shaw Lane went on to confidently defeat the higher tiered side 3-0, in front of 320 spectators. Despite the away side finishing the game with ten men, Shaw Lane started the game exceptionally well, and only grew stronger as the game went on.

Similar to Lancaster City, a bulk of Shaw Lane’s title winning team have put pen to paper to stay on for the Northern Premier fight, whilst they also continue to scout the market for some fresh faces, including the signing of Harrogate Town’s Chib Chilaka.

Shaw Lane are stepping into the unknown, and they’re bound to give 110% throughout this new adventure. It looks like they have the right resources to give it all that they have this season, and to really make it a season to remember.

Predicted finish: 8^th.

Our penultimate team is Stalybridge Celtic, relegated from the National League North after finishing 21^st out of 22 teams, only finishing ahead of Altrincham. Stalybridge play their home games at Bower Field. Bower Field holds 6500 spectators, of which 1300 are seated.

Recent times haven’t been too great for Stalybridge, who’ll be looking to use their relegation to the Northern Premier as a turnaround point to get themselves back on track. Notably, though, U20 World Cup winner Dominic Calvert-Lewin, grabbed two goals and two assists on his debut for Stalybridge, back on boxing day 2014, whilst on loan from Sheffield United.

Stalybridge have already delved into the transfer market, signing three players up, including former Trafford striker Aaron Burns, who grabbed 34 goals in 67 games for his former club. Burns is a crucial signing for the Celts, having already shown his capability at this level, and at similar levels, over the last few years.

Stalybridge boast an impressive academy, the Stalybridge Celtic FC Academy, supporting in the development of young footballers ages 16-19. Hosting an academy is a great way to make a real different in young, aspiring player’s lives, and it’s really nice to see Stalybridge get behind it so much.

Overall, it looks like Stalybridge have got a really nice set up, and an experienced team that can really have a go at winning promotion at the first attempt.

Predicted finish: 4^th.

Last, but not least, we’ve got Witton Albion. Witton play their home games at Wincham Park, which holds 4813 spectators.

Witton Albion secured Northern Premier football through the playoffs, having finish second to high-flying Shaw Lane in the First Division South. Witton played Spalding in their play-off final, beating them 2-1. Albion have a vast amount of Northern Premier experience, so they know exactly what they’re going to be coming up against come August.

Predicted finish: 11^th.

 

I’ll be looking to travel over to all of the new member’s grounds, if possible, throughout the coming season. With such a great mixture of teams in terms of experience and history, we’re bound to have yet another exciting Northern Premier League campaign!

2016/2017 @NE_NonLeague season review.

I started NE_NonLeague back in November and, despite usually working 6 days a week, I managed to get to numerous games at 17 grounds across the North East of England. And whilst I didn’t do nearly as much writing as I would’ve liked, I’ve got plenty to summarise as the season draws to it’s conclusion.

So here’s my best, and my worst, of the 2016/2017 season:

Best result – Guisborough Town vs Whitley Bay (2-1).

Way back in November, promotion chasing Whitley Bay visited a struggling Guisborough Town side. Separated by 18 places in the league, and with both side’s recent form taken into account, I think a lot of the spectators, as well as myself, were a bit pessimistic of Guisborough’s chances. At this time, Guisborough were managerless, and hadn’t won in their last 13 attempts.

In just the 5th minute, Whitley Bay took the lead after dominating the game’s opening exchanges. But a goal before half time, and a 66th minute winner for Dave Onions, gave Guisborough a shock win. Despite everything being against Guisborough on paper, The Priorymen dug deep and grabbed a great result!

Best value for money – Coxhoe Athletic vs Cleator Moor (0-3).

My visit to Coxhoe was my first ever Wearside League game, so I was unaware of how much entry and any extras would be. To my surprise, entrance was only £3, which you really can’t go wrong with!

So, for this visit, £5.50 got me entrance to the game, a sizeable portion of chips, a hot chocolate, and a 3-0 swing in the away team’s favour. Some places I’ve been to this season were £11 for entrance alone, so Coxhoe was definitely the best place I’ve been this season in terms of value. And the game wasn’t too bad, too!

Worst game – Billingham Synthonia vs Billingham Town (0-0).

The first of a double header for me back on Boxing Day 2016, I was expecting big things from my first Billingham Derby. But it never really happened!

The game finished as a very dull 0-0, with neither team doing anything special to edge the game. And, whilst I wouldn’t want to see any fighting on the pitch, it was nowhere near as feisty as I would’ve expected from two local rivals fighting for promotion.

Best new ground – York City’s Bootham Crescent vs Brackley Town (1-0)(FA Trophy).

Having been to games hosted at Premier League grounds, and games played on fields in Spennymoor, I think I’ve seen a variety of what the North East has to offer. But York City’s Bootham Crescent now holds a special place in my heart, having visited back in February for their FA Trophy Quarter-Final game against Brackley.

Whilst the game left a lot to be desired (a solitary first half Jon Parkin header the difference), the ground continually intrigued me and I loved exploring whenever I could during half time and after the final whistle.

There were numerous places to get food, and their club shop was the most professional I’ve seen in Non League as a whole. If you haven’t been to Bootham Crescent before, I definitely suggest it.

Entrance to watch the future FA Trophy winners was just £8 for this game and I thoroughly enjoyed my day!

Best individual performance – Lewis Wing (Shildon AFC) vs Guisborough Town.

I don’t think I’ve ever seen a dull game when I’ve travelled over to the KGV, and this game was no exception. The game finished 4-2, and Shildon finished with 10 men, but it was the performance of Shildon’s Lewis Wing that was the talking point for the 140 spectators.

Wing scored the first hattrick I’d seen all season, and I think it’ll take me a while to see a better one anytime soon. Wing’s three exceptional finishes, including a 25 yard screamer that swerved away from Guisborough’s Jordan Nixon at the last second, and his absolute control of the game, left everyone talking about his performance.

To cap off an exceptional season, including 21 more league goals, Wing has signed a contract with Middlesbrough U23s and looks destined for bigger things. At Shildon’s presentation night, Wing picked up ‘Supporters player of the year’, ‘Performance of the season’, ‘Top goal scorer’ and ‘Player’s player of the year’.

 

I’ve thoroughly enjoyed my season with NE_NonLeague, and I hope the page continues to progress in the same direction. as it has done last season. As far as pre-season goes, I’ve seen a lot of exciting fixtures that I’ll be aiming to get to, including Whitby Town hosting AZ Alkmaar. Next season is set to be great and I’ll be there for every step of it!

 

Stokesley vs Hartlepool FC – Wearside League (29/03/2017)

Stokesley: 1 – Jordan Lowrie, 2 – Sean Harland, 3 – Chris Lynas, 4 – Tim Sharples, 5 – Seb Hanratty, 6 – Craig Winter, 7 – Billy McGrath, 8 – Jordan Rivis (C), 9 – Anthony Barnes, 10 – Dan Joseph, 11 – Connor Hardman, 12 – Sean Oddy, 13 – Jon Kinson, 14 – Shaun Laverick, 15 – Jake Laverick, 16 – Chris Mason.

Hartlepool FC: 1 – Elliot Coils, 2 – Luke Naylor, 3 – Kieron Campbell, 4 – Jack Swales, 5 – Paul Moss, 6 – Callum Short, 7 – Kalon Lloyd, 8 – Samuel Cook, 9 – John Stephenson, 10 – Andrew Blackburn, 11 – Jamie Tumilty, 12 – Jonny Murray, 14 – Mat Hughes, 15 – Jack Harrison, 16 – Mat Stokes, 17 – Josh Nobus.

A completely last minute decision, following the late announcement of a day off, I travelled down to Stokesley to watch them host Hartlepool FC in the Wearside League. Stokesley, sitting 14^th in the league before kick-off, hosted a Hartlepool side sitting in 7^th, so we could be looking at a close game!

On arrival to the ground, we were greeted by a very welcoming gentleman in the ticket office. The bargain hunter in me loves Wearside League games; at £3 each for entry, you really can’t go wrong! The added bonus of today’s trip was availability of badges and scarves on offer – just £2.50 for a scarf, and £3 for a badge. I hadn’t seen the price for the scarves, so I went for just a badge, but I’ll definitely be back for a scarf when I can!

Onto the game, and with all the formalities done with, it was Stokesley who got the game underway. And it was the hosts who created the first chance, but this was headed straight at Hartlepool’s Elliot Coils by Stokesley’s captain, Jordan Rivis, in the first minute.

And it was the hosts who managed to strike first. In just the 3^rd minute, Stokesley’s Sean Harland floated a freekick into the area that was touched in past the onrushing keeper. Whilst it was quite the scramble to win the header, Jordan Rivis claimed the goal post match. Traditionally, an early goal in a game usually makes for a cracking rest of the game, so I was hoping for a high scoring game at this point!

But, to my dismay, the game settled down after the goal. In fact, it took nearly 7 minutes for the next half chance to be created. Hartlepool’s John Stephenson made a powerful run towards the Stokesley defence, winning his team a corner as a result. The resulting corner was easily cleared by Stokesley, who countered straight away through Chris Lynas, who managed to run the ball into the Pools half, only to pull it back for Dan Joseph who shot the ball into the car park.

Hartlepool’s John Stephenson seemed like the only source of creativity for the visitors at this point, and it was the pacey striker who managed to win the away side a freekick in the 12^th minute. The resulting freekick was, again, easily cleared by the defence; Hartlepool seemed to be struggling to get the ball past the tall figure of Craig Winter so far.

It took until the 18^th minute for Hartlepool’s pressure to almost come good. A great cross by Luke Naylor fell kindly to Jamie Tumilty, who struck a half volley straight at Stokesley’s Jordan Lowrie, who’d got down well to save. Certainly not the easiest chance, but a sight of goal for the away side to build on, having struggled so far in the game.

Apart from the goal, the first half seemed a bit dull. The game had gotten a bit heated at times, with players disagreeing with officials, as we often see, but nothing else really happened of note. So the teams went in at 1-0, and not particularly the goal fest I’d craved so far!

Hartlepool kicked off the second half, knowing they really had to step up their game if they were to get anything out of the game. And they did just that. After some great play from Stephenson, the ball was played to the Pools number 2, Luke Naylor, who shot low and squeezed the ball under  Jordan Lowrie, who’ll probably feel he could’ve done better. 1-1 in the 48^th minute, and game on!

Not only had Hartlepool come out of the changing rooms the stronger team, they managed to continue the momentum well into the half. Some great pressure from their attacking players kept Stokesley penned back for parts of the game, allowing the away side to create some great chances, although none of these were taken.

But there’s no point of having all the pressure if you can’t convert chances, and this was proven in the 58^th minute, with goalkeeping error number 3. Stokesley’s Rivis intercepted a poor clearance, and shot low at Pools’ Elliot Coils, who allowed the ball to skim under him, and into the back of the net. I sympathise with both keepers, because the pitch was soaking due to showers before and during the game, and it was fairly windy. But it was 2-1 to Stokesley, maybe just against the run of play, but that’s the way it goes if you can’t work keeper.

And just three minutes later, Jordan Rivis got his, and his sides, third goal of the game. A great searching ball into the area from Dan Joseph was sensationally put into the back of the net via a sweetly struck overhead kick. Whilst the away side can be disappointed with their poor defending, it takes a great amount of skill to finish in that way, and a great way to cap the hattrick for the home side’s captain. It was 3-1 now, and the away side looked out of the game at this point, despite there being 30 minutes remaining.

But the away side kept their heads up, and carried out with the same determination that they’d shown all game. Hartlepool’s Andrew Blackburn and Jamie Tumilty continued to work together, but nothing really came of it. The only real activity of note between the two was a Tumilty pull back, just after Stokesley’s third goal, falling to Blackburn but this was shot well over.

Onto the 81^st minute, and Hartlepool’s pressure paid off.  The ball fell to the feat of Andrew Blackburn, who’d looked exceptionally good in this second half, who managed to shoot the ball rather tamely at the front post. This time, the ball was unfortunately parried into this own goal by Lowrie, making it 3-2 with 10 minutes remaining.

But the last significant action of the game fell to the hosts, much to Hartlepool’s dismay, who’d had a thoroughly frustrating night. Anthony Barnes made way for Sean Oddy in the 87^th minute and, with just his second touch following a 1-2, Oddy slotted the ball home, wrapping the game up for Stokesley.

4-2 was how the game finished, with 5 of those goals coming in the second half.

I never realised just how close Stokesley was to home, but I’ll definitely be returning soon following tonight’s game. From the team’s performance, to the Stokesley Ultras, who didn’t stop singing for the whole 90 minutes, I was thoroughly entertained. Good luck to both teams for what’s left of the seasons!

Guisborough Town vs Shildon AFC – 15/03/2017

Guisborough Town: 1 – Jordan Nixon, 2 – Anthony Snook, 3 – D McAvoy, 4 – Lee Bythway, 5 – Matthew Lovatt, 6 – Jamie Poole, 7 – Steven Roberts, 8 – Ben Hugill, 9 – Anthony Hume, 10 – Connor Smith, 11 – Louis Goldsack, 12 – Thomas Bligh, 13 – James Dawson, 14 – David Onions, 15 – J Baily, 16 – Mason McNeill.

Shildon AFC: 1 – Nick Liversedge, 2 – Jamie Harwood, 3 – Matty Robson, 4 – Daniel Moore, 5 – Danny Parker, 6 – Dan Groves, 7 – Lewis Dodds, 8 – Sam Hodgson, 9 – Michael Rae, 10 – Lewis Wing, 11 – Adam Burnicle, 12 – David Vincent, 14 – Marc Ellison, 15 – Chris Bell, 16 – Paul Connor, 17 – Amar Purewall.

There were a wide variety of games on offer tonight, but Guisborough’s home tie stood out amongst the others. Sitting rock bottom of the Northern League division 1, Guisborough welcomed a Shildon side sitting in the top 3, and looking to close the gap on both Shields’ side whilst stretching their advantage from forth placed Morpeth.

Shildon kicked off the game in front of a bumper crowd of 140. And it was Shildon who kicked off the stronger. In just the 2^nd minute, Lewis Dodds did well inside the Guisborough area, and forced the home keeper into a low, left-sided save. Guisborough were being immediately pressured on the ball this early on in the game as Shildon clearly showed their intent to dominate the game with possession.

But, for all their pressure, it was Guisborough who struck first, against the run of play. After some great work on the right hand side from Steven Roberts, Guisborough’s number 7 managed to make himself some space and shoot at Shildon’s Nick Liversedge. Liversedge could only parry his shot towards the feet of Whitby Town loanee Anthony Hume, who sidefooted home from 3 yards to give the home side a shock lead.

Shildon didn’t let their heads go down though, and some great play from Matty Robson and Adam Burnicle continued to force chances for the away side. And, this time, the pressure became productive as Shildon won a penalty in the 18^th minute. Stepping up to take the penalty was number 3 Matty Robson, who had continued to look dangerous on the left side. Robson took the penalty, aiming to the keeper’s left, but Guisborough’s Jordan Nixon saved incredibly well, parrying into the top left corner, rebounding out of the goal where the post meets the crossbar. But the rebound luckily fell to the penalty taker, who slotted home from point-blank range to make it 1-1.

This equaliser just spurred on the away side, who didn’t stop the pressure with some very well played, on the floor Football. In the 24^th minute, the ball fell to Lewis Wing, who must’ve been 20-25 yards out. Shildon’s number 10 then worked some space and struck exceptionally well with the ball swerving away from Guisborough’s Nixon at the last moment, and nestling in the back of the net. I haven’t seen a ball swerve like that all season, and it was a great way for Shildon to take a well deserved lead.

Both teams started to play some great Football, with the ball being continually switched to either flank by both sides. 35 minutes into the game, and Shildon were still looking the stronger of the teams, not allowing Guisborough any time on the ball. After 10 minutes of very little in terms of clear-cut chances being made, Daniel Moore played the ball across to Shildon’s second goal scorer, Lewis Wing. And, same as his previous goal, Wing put his body behind his shot, and launched it into the top of the goal, leaving Nixon with no chance. Wing getting his second of the game, and putting Shildon two goals clear of Guisborough.

40 minutes in, and four goals so far, there was still one more noticeable moment in the first half. Guisborough’s Steven Roberts, the one diamond in the rough for the home side so far, made a great solo run towards the Shildon goal. Shildon’s Matty Robson got back and fouled the Guisborough attacker, and the referee deemed Robson to be the last man, rather controversially. The referee had gone to converse with his official on our near side, but that was only to query whether the foul took place in the area or not. Despite protests from the Shildon players, the referee showed Robson a straight red four minutes before half time.

As the half time whistle blew, it gave us 15 minutes to reflect on what we’d just seen. Where else can you see four goals and a red card for £6 in one half? We were definitely getting our money’s worth so far, and I could only presume this run of goals would continue into the second half.

Guisborough kicked off the second half, and it was the home team who made the first real chance of it. Roberts, the mastermind behind any of Guisborough’s best chances so far, made another one of his solo runs, forcing Shildon’s Liversedge into a great save before the ball was confidently cleared.

But the 10 men of Shildon were still looking confident on the ball, and it looked only a matter of time before they scored again, or Lewis Wing got his hattrick. And Wing did get his hattrick, in emphatic style, in the 61^st minute. Making his way into the area, Wing cut back very smartly, pushing the ball onto his left foot, before side footing into the bottom left corner of the goal, again leaving Nixon with very little chance of making a save. Wing’s hattrick was the first I’ve seen this season, surprisingly, and I don’t think I’ll see better any time soon! It was now 4-1 to the away side, and they looked like they’d run away with it.

Despite occasionally looking down and out, Guisborough did start to come into the game stronger as it progressed, showing glimpses of quality. Some solid defending from the away side, as they’d done all game, restricted the Priorymen to long shots, but this didn’t stop them. Substitute Thomas Bligh picked up the ball 25 yards out, and struck towards goal, where a wicked deflection took the ball past the wrong footed Nick Liversedge, and brought the deficit back to two goals.

The last 15 minutes definitely weren’t as entertaining as the previous 75, with Shildon keeping the ball exceptionally well, frustrating the home side by keeping the ball in the corner, and forcing them into silly mistakes.

So it finished 4-2, and one of the more entertaining games I’ve seen so far this season; it had absolutely everything. It obviously wasn’t the result Guisborough were wanting, but they can be proud that they managed to perform fairly well at times against a team sitting 19 places ahead of them in the league. A great advert for Non League Football, and the Northern League, both sides definitely gave the 140 spectators plenty of talking points.

About me – NE Non League

Since I started @NE_NonLeague, I’ve found myself feel welcomed by so many people and teams from the North East, receiving weekly invites to games and constantly conversing about past and future fixtures. It’s crazy to think I only started the page in November, yet I’ve gained over 250 followers which is something I never thought I’d achieve, and it’s still growing!

One thing I do get asked fairly frequently is ‘who is the mystery person behind NE_NonLeague?’ So, I felt a nicely written piece about myself would solve any curiosities anyone may have.

So, my name’s Adam, I’m 24 and I live in Billingham. I’m a lifelong Whitby Town supporter, both home and away, and I wouldn’t have it any other way. But, besides a passion for Whitby Town, I absolutely love Non League Football of any kind. I’ve only ever been to two Premier League games, and that’s it for the top four flights of English Football. Every other game I’ve ever been to has involved a Non League team of some sort.

Via direct message, I’ve been asked a few questions, so here are the eagerly anticipated answers:

What’s the furthest you’ve ever travelled to a game?

Back on the 6^th September, Whitby Town played an FA Cup Preliminary Round Replay over in Winsford against Winsford United. For myself and my Fiancée, it was an 146 mile, each way, journey across the country to watch a rather feisty game where Whitby Town came away with a 2-1 victory, just. By far the most tired I’ve ever been driving home, but totally worth it!

Out of all the games you’ve been to, which one have you enjoyed the most?

Way back to last season, on the 2^nd of January, a struggling Whitby Town travelled over to high flying Nantwich with new manager Chris Hardy at the helm. The weather was torrid and I honestly wasn’t too optimistic about the result. But a Mikey Roberts chip and a Ryan Brobbel wonder strike helped Whitby to a 2-1 victory and initiated the great escape that saw Whitby just about survive the drop.

What’s the most disappointed you’ve been following a game?

It was a Whitby Town game again; no surprises there! It was a tossup between two games, but away to Workington this season just about tops it. It actually sounds a bit selfish, seeing as we’ve been flying high in the Northern Premier League for a while now, and I shouldn’t take it for granted. But, we travelled to Workington high in confidence, and expected a close game. On a pitch that was unplayable, in my opinion, Whitby fought hard, but ended up on the wrong side of a 4-0 result.

But we’re currently fourth in the league! And a lot of my local Non League teams are also high flying, and ever so welcome when I travel over to do a write up on their games.

I’m not too sure if this will help you all form an image of the alias behind NE Non League, but it might!

Thank you to everyone who’s supported me so far with NE Non League, and to every team that’s invited me along and provided amazing hospitality. Here’s to making more memories in the North East!

Thornaby FC vs Darlington Railway (Northern League Division 2) – 04/03/2017

Thornaby FC: 1 – Adrian Boblowski, 2 – Stephen Morrison (C), 3 – Mitchell Morris, 4 – Nico Weatherald, 5 – Michael Joseph, 6 – Stuart Browne, 7 – Benjamin Jackson, 8 – James Rowe, 9 – Daniel Brunskill, 10 – Gary Mitchell, 11 – Karl Charltom, 12 – Lewis Green, 14 – Taylor Crainey, 15 – Jake Marron, 16 – Kurtis Howes, 17 – Danny Crawford.

 

Darlington Railway: 1 – Callum Liddicott, 2 – Danny McLachlan, 3 – Mattie Hughes, 4 – David Harrison (C), 5 – Dan Flounders, 6 – Andrew Lonsdale, 7 – Paul New, 8 – Glenn Donaldson, 9 – Chris Tarn, 10 – Callum Bennett, 11 – Joe Peel, 12 – Ryan Taylor, 14 – Jordan Hanratty, 15 – Aiden O’Connor, 16 – Jason West, 17 – Paul Griffith.

 

Today’s game of choice was Thornaby at home to Darlington Railway. I’ve been to Teesdale Park countless number of times, and my restaurant actually sponsored one of the youth teams a little while ago, but this was my first time watching Thornaby FC play. I’ve seen Middlesbrough Ladies play at Teesdale Park, but Thornaby FC have always played at home at times where it’s been extremely difficult to get over.

A bottom of the table clash, both teams sat in the bottom 5 of the Northern League Division 2, with Darlington Railway sitting at the base of the table. So, on paper, it looked as though we were in for a close affair between two teams struggling to pick up any sort of form.

Indeed, the game started quite evenly, with both teams stringing some great passing plays together. Apart from a few hit-and-hopes, the first real shot fell to Thornaby’s James Rowe, who chose to shoot when he had time to pass; Rowe’s shot went way over the crossbar to the dismay of his colleagues. Darlington were also a force early on, winning two corners in the first 5 minutes of the game, although these came to nothing as they were both well defended.

It looked as though Darlington were getting a hold on the game, but it was Thornaby who continued to create the best chances. In the 12^th minute, a smartly crossed corner fell to Thornaby’s James Rowe, again. Under pressure from an outrushing defence, Rowe failed to connect with the ball as he shot, putting the ball wide of the post.

Possession wise, the game was all Darlington, but some stubborn Thornaby defending continued to frustrate the away team. Thornaby’s Danny Brunskill, formerly of Billingham Synthonia and Whitby Town, used his strength continuously to create chances, and looked like the best bet to provide any sort of hope for Thornaby.  In the 21^st minute, the ball was crossed in by Brunskill, and headed just over by Karl Charlton, who can think he was unlucky not to hit the target at least.

Both teams went in at half time knowing they’d both not done enough to register a goal, and things definitely had to change in the second half if either side was to break the deadlock.

Thornaby kicked off the second half, and it was their big number 9, Danny Brunskill, who created the first chance. Taking the ball into the corner, he won a freekick that was whipped in by number 3, Mitchell Morris. Morris aimed the ball towards the back post, but no one managed to get on the end of it, and it was confidently cleared.

Straight down the other end, after some great passing play, Darlington’s Paul New crossed the ball across the face of goal, leaving Thornaby’s Callum Liddiecott stranded, but no Darlington players took a risk so they watched the ball float past, to the disarray of their captain, David Harrison, who made sure the whole ground knew his thoughts.

With all these chances though, it definitely looked like a goal was coming. And, in the 53^rd minute, the away supporters’ wishes came true. A poor cross field ball was intercepted by Chris Tarn, who made a great run into the area and fired low, under Adrian Boblowski, who watched the ball nestle in the back of the net. 1-0 to the away side, and just about justified given the quality of chances created by both sides.

As the game progressed, the Thornaby players became increasingly frustrated, earning themselves two yellow cards, one for dissent. Their only real chance in the remainder of the game fell to substitute, Lewis Green, who cut inside the defence really well, but shot just wide from the outside of the area. A difficult chance, but probably the best Thornaby had created all game.

Straight after Green’s chance, Darlington’s Callum Bennett got 1 on 1 with Boblowski, who saved well as Bennett was chased down by the Thornaby defence, who just about did enough to put him off.

So the game finished 1-0 to the away side, and maybe a fair result given the hard work each player put in. The player’s reactions after the final whistle showed it all, and just how much it meant to them. The away supporters will definitely be hoping this win propels them in their coming games!