SATURDAY AUGUST 30TH 2014

SEDGEFIELD NETPark 0 v 1 WHEATLEY HILL WMC FC

A game played in very windy conditions, Wheatley Hill scored after 26mins with a decent finish, and they had the better chances of the first half, h/t 0-1. Netpark were the better team in the 2nd half with their goalkeeper rarely tested. Blenkinsopp in the Wheatley Hill goal pulled of some great saves to keep a clean sheet, NETPark had a goal disallowed. Credit to Wheatley Hill who battled very hard and took the 3pts, f/t 0-1

SHILDON RESERVES 3 V 1 MURTON AFC

Shildon came out on top in a hard fought game at Scouts Field on very windy conditions. The home team started brightly and as usual were creating chances. They took the lead with a cool finish from Joe Kerry and when James Huntley doubled the lead it looked like it would be a relaxing afternoon for the supporters. Half time 2 0 to Shildon. Murton scored through Mathew mustard straight from the start and it was game on. Shildon managed to get back in the game and Michael Nichol sealed the win with a fantastic goal. Murton kept going to the end but it was a welcome 3 points for Shildon.

SHERBURN VILLAGE WMC FC 1 V 2 WALLSEND TOWN

The game started in very blustery conditions. Both teams started sharp. 10mins in a foul by Sherburn’s Martin Clough Saw Wall sends free kick sail just over the bar. The game was end to end with both teams having chances. On 20 mins a mistake by Wall sends Paul Thompson put Sherburn’s Joe Simpson through who drove his shot low into the Wallsend net. 1-0. Wallsend mounted preassure but Sherburn defended well. Right on half time Wallsends Deka Graham's strike was goal bound but saved by James Winter. H T 1-0. Second half started the same with both teams going for it. Sherburn’s Peter Ryder had a great effort superbly saved by the Wallsend keeper on 55. Straight after Wallsend had a great chance to level but James Winter pulled off a great save. Sherburn’s Omar Mustafa was put through one on one by Joe Simpson he went around the keeper too wide which gave the keeper time to get back and save his shot. Penalty to Wallsend was awarded on 70 mins which Deka Graham struck low to the keeper’s right but a great save by James Winter kept Sherburn in front. Wallsend then put their big no 5 Chris Garwood up front and high balls into the Sherburn’s box were starting to cause them problems. A great solo run by Wallsend's no 4 put a ball into the box and Deka slotted home to make it 1-1 on 84 mins . The game was still end to end both teams going for it. With 1 min to go a 35 yd strike by Wallsend’s Chris Graham sailed into the Sherburn net to end the match 2-1 to Wallsend. A hard fought game by two committed teams great to watch.

EBCHESTER CONSETT RESERVES 5 V 2 CHESTER-LE-STREET TOWN WHITEHILL

A new location for Ebchester as they welcomed Whitehall’s to The Highgate. Ebchester started off the better team and it wasn't long before they took the lead from a corner. A darting run to the front post by Hannant and a majestic back heel left Agnew with the simplest of tap ins. Whitehill’s came back at Ebchester and scored a good counter attacking goal. They overloaded the right hand side and a good ball in from the right hand side left their forward with the task of heading it home. It wasn't long before Ebchester were back in the lead, Hannant flicked the ball on and it hit the hand of the Whitehill’s defender. Agnew stepped up, glanced one way and slotted it home the other, cool as a cucumber. Whitehill then won their own penalty; a dubious foul in the box gave Whitehill’s a chance to equalise. 2-2 after an entertaining first half. Whitehill’s came out strongly in the second half and were looking the better team. Ebchester's defence standing strong. 15 mins into the half Ebchester then got a third through new signing Dan Cuine, a good left footed shot found the bottom corner. From this point on Ebchester went pushing for the fourth. Good play down the right hand side and Cuine was through one on one with the keeper, he slotted past the goalkeeper leaving him now chance. Ebchester again went on the attack not sitting back with the two goal lead. Agnew, desperate for his hat trick, found himself down the left hand side. A lovely nutmeg past the Whitehill’s defender and he were charging in on goal. From a tight angle and other options in the box he struck a fierce right footed shot which went straight into the top corner. A deserved hat trick. Whitehill kept going at it and had 1 or 2 chances in the last 5 minutes, Dan Parker, stepping into nets today, pulling off one spectacular save.  A good game which ended with Ebchester taking the points.

 HARTLEPOOL FC RESERVES 2 V 1 BISHOP AUCKLAND FC RESERVES

 This was an even affair with both teams battling hard to establish themselves in their new league. With a cross wind spoiling much of the play the first half ended goalless. Bishop looked dangerous springing FC's offside trap but FC survived and at times looked dangerous down the left. Bishop had much of the play and the better chances but the first half ended 0-0. The tables were turned in the second half with FC looking the stronger and had the better chances but spoiling at least three 1 on 1's with the keeper. The deadlock was broken when Jake Larkin scored a screamer into the top corner. The game looked settled but bishop didn't give up and a quick break saw Liam Bain equalise while under pressure from a defender and the keeper. FC pushed on and nudged ahead with a crossed ball that was headed in by the returning Ross Kidson. FC defended well to see the game out and was fortunate to come out with 3pts. Credit to both teams.

WEDNESDAY AUGUST 27TH 2014

WALLSEND TOWN 4 V 1 MURTON AFC

 Great start again by Wallsend town and Paul Gordon with an excellent finish... Wallsend town kept pressing Murton FC with Murton FC keeper pulling off several important saves in first half... Murton AFC number 9 timed his run to a tea and beat the offside trap to slot home pass the Wallsend town keeper... With the first half coming to an end a Murton AFC player put in a dreadful challenge on Jack Lowton who unfortunately had to be taken to hospital... so Wallsend started second half as they finished 1st with attacking football with Crispy Garwood scoring a header to make it 2-1 and then 5 minutes later a lovely one two with Lee Garwood for Jordan Jones to lift it into top corner for Wallsend town to make it 3-1 and with 10 minutes left to play Paul Gordon took the ball around 4 outfield players and then Murton keeper to make it 4-1 which it finished this way with Wallsend town continue their blistering form.

SHILDON RESERVES 2 V 3 CHESTER-LE-STREET RESERVES WHITEHILL

An entertaining game at Dean Street tonight ended 3-2 to Chester. In the first half Shildon looking the better team and managed to take the lead through Stephen Clifford. The second half Chester came out the stronger team and scored three quick goals before Shildon got a consolation goal before the end.

BRANDON UNITED RESERVES 1 V 0 BIRTLEY FC

A tight game with few chances with the deadlock being broken in the 85th minute when a Brandon Corner was headed back across the box by Shaun Wilson and then bundled in at the far post by Robson Brown. Man of the match for Birtley was Liam Lave rick and for Brandon was playmaker Jonny Ord.

FERRYHILL TOWN 2 V 3 SEDGEFIELD NETPARK

Ferryhill town 2 - 3 Sedgefield Net Park. Good completive game Netpark taking early lead then Ferryhill equalised through Billy Snaith good strike into the top corner then Shane Todd gave Ferryhill the lead with a great strike net park equalised through an Andrew Blackburn tap in then Net Park got the three points with a great free kick.

WHEATLEY HILL WMC FC 0 V 0 SHERBURN VILLAGE WMC FC

A competitive game ended in a goalless draw with both sides equally capable of snatching all 3 points.

HYLTON SC 4 V 2 COUNDON & LEEHOLME YOUTH FC

Hylton v Coundon is a fixture neither team wanted to lose but there was a winner and a worthy one at that. Both teams kept it tight in all positions and didn’t want to make any mistakes so long balls was pretty much the play for the first 15 mins until 1 landed behind the Coundon full back to let in Cassidy who crossed to Wooton, easy 1-0 Wooton. Coundon were on the back foot and Hylton passed with confidence, a shot from outside the box deflected off the keeper and landed to Wooton who lobbed the wondering keeper from 25yrds, Wooton 2-0. Hylton played as though the game was over but Coundon never stopped playing and closing down and it paid dividends as a mistake from the Hylton full back let Coundon in who scored 2-1, game on. This goal gave a good Coundon team confidence that played the ball well and scored again from a penalty kick just on half time 2-2. Both teams came out second half believing they could win the points and it lead to a scrappy half with some dubious fouls and yellow cards but the ref handled it well, Hylton introduced Wright (Nelly) who had an immediate impact on the wing, first touch passed the defender and round the keeper. 3-2 Nelly. Hylton built as the game went by and another cross from Nelly who was instrumental second half crossed to find Wooton but the shot was carried out to Catchiside who made it 4-2. Cassidy and Coundon number 12 right back competed well and was a pleasure to watch, both players worthy of MOTM.

BISHOP AUCKLAND RESERVES 2 V 1 EBCHESTER CONSETT RESERVES

For the second time in 4 days, these two teams faced each other in a league encounter, although this time on a beautiful night at Heritage Park. The early exchanges were close, but the home side edged possession and chances. Lewis Martin finished poorly when played through one-on-one with his effort straight at the goalkeeper, but tested him a few minutes later with a better effort. Alex Cantwell was unable to finish at the far post from a perfect Bobby Gibson cross. At the other end, James Cleminson had to be at full stretch to pull off a stunning save from a curling free kick. However, the deadlock was broken on 29 minutes as Lewis Fitzgerald pulled back for Liam Bain to open his Bishop account with a delayed run and superb finish to the right corner. The home side once again started well in the second half, with a number of offside chances going against them. The visiting man of the match keeper pulled off further 1v1 saves, and was at full stretch again to deny Lewis Martin from the right. The visitors were back level on 61 minutes after some neat play resulting in a fine finish over the on-rushing Cleminson. The visitors then had a number of chances to take the lead, but fired wide from range. It was once again left late though as Sam Dixon's effort hit the bar, only for Liam Bain to head home on 85 minutes to seal the win. The defence, including Bishop Man of the Match Michael Owens stood firm in the final minutes, but overall a deserved home victory for Bishops with Consett showing much promise also!

HARTLEPOOL FC RESERVES 5 V 1 JARROW FC GOLD

The two new boys clashed at Hartlepool FC Grayfields site with FC taking their first three points of the season. Bother teams are relatively inexperienced in this league and Hartlepool was a bit slow to start with some poor passing from the midfield. It looked an even affair until an FC player was upended in the box in the 15th minute and the resulting penalty was dispatched by Conall Sweeting. Jarrow fought bravely to get back I to the game but went 2 down on the half hour has Joe Evans fired into the bottom corner. Charlie Grant and Carl O'Sullivan made it 4 before the break but the visitors didn't stop fighting. The second half saw Jarrow make a spirited fight back and the 2nd half was a more even affair. Credit goes to Jarrow who did not give up but the game was out of reach when Evens hut his second and FC's 5th. Jarrow for the goal they worked so hard for with Bradley Forster firing into the bottom corner. It's fair to say that both teams are finding their feet in this

SATURDAY AUGUST 23RD 2014

WHEATLEY HILL WMC FC 2 V 3 HORSLEY HILL FC

 Well fought and even 1st half which ended 1:1.The second half started much the same with Horsley Hill managing to eventually take the lead. And with the game coming to an end and Horsley 3:2 up, Wheatley Hill pushed but couldn't find an equalizer and Horsley took the 3 points.

BRANDON UNITED RESERVES 0 V 11 COUNDON & LEEHOLME YOUTH FC

This was always going to be a hard game for Brandon having lost key players to injuries last week and with several players working and three called up for first team duty and so it proved. Coundon scored at regular intervals in the first half to lead 6-0 and despite stubborn resistance for most of the second half the Brandon defence ran out of bodies to put on the pitch and shipped another 5 goals in the second half. Scorers for Coundon were Mark Wood with 5, Carl Raine with 3 and one goal each for Liam Bowes, Scott Hastie and Ben Collinson. Man of the match for Coundon for the quality of his delivery into the danger area was Stephen Houlahan and for Brandon was new keeper Joe Hammond for his double penalty save.

MURTON AFC 3 V 1 CHESTER-LE=STREET TOWN WHITEHILL

Murton bounced back from defeat against Ferryhill with a deserved victory over Whitehill. Murton took the lead within the first minute following a deflected Winspear shot leaving the Whitehill keeper with no chance. Whitehill played some good football during the first half however Murtons keeper Swinburne made a couple of good saves to keep them in front and then shortly before half time they doubled their advantage following excellent work by Ruddock out wide and decisive finishing from Grayson. Whitehill started the second half quicker and quickly pulled the score back to 2-1; both teams had chances in the second half with Swinburne again saving to keep the score at 2-1 and some sloppy Murton finishing at the other end. Murton restored their 2 goal lead mid way through with Grayson converting a spilled free kick from close range.

EBCHESTER CONSETT RESERVES 3 V 4 BISHOP AUCKLNAD RESERVES

Bishop Auckland started the game brightly and within 15 minutes found themselves 2 up. The forward broke the offside trap and bided his time before slotting into the bottom corner. Ebchester then came back into the game with a fabulous 20 yard curler from Hannant, he bent the ball straight into the top corner leaving the goalkeeper no chance. That man was also in the right place to score the equaliser. Agnew's dancing feet down the left hand side opened up defence, he squared it to Hannant who was in the right place at the right down to put it into the back of the net. Bishop Auckland found themselves ahead again just before half time, a foul in the box allowed the forward to strike home a good penalty into the top corner. Half time 2-3. Ebchester started the second half well and were pushing for an equaliser, they made it 3-3 after 65 minutes, the goalkeeper came out his box to clear it but the ball fell to Agnew who lobbed it over the keeper and defender. Both teams were pushing for a winner and with 7 minutes to go Bishop Auckland got it, a good through ball from the right opened up for the left winger to dink it over the on rushing goalkeeper. Final score 3-4.

 HYLTON SC 1 V 1 SEDGEFIELD NETPARK

Hylton entertain a Sedgefield Netpark who are yet to drop points so a very entertaining game was expected and it didn’t disappoint. Sedgefield started the brightest with sharp passing and with a lot of confidence but Hylton found their feet and it turned out a very competitive game. Hylton had 2 bad injuries to key players but Hylton pressed on but Sedgefield broke and scored but the linesman flagged for offside, various chances from both sides but a bad error from a Hylton full back played Sedgefield in 1 on 1 goal! 0-1 Hylton pressed well and with various chances missed Wooton final levelled 1-1. A good competitive game in bad condition which both teams adapted well.

FERRYHILL TOWN 5 V 1 BIRTLEY FC

Ferryhill town 5 - 1 Birtley. Ferryhill took the lead through a fast attacking movement which lead to a penalty which Billy Snaith coolly slotted in. Richard brown then scored an unbelievable hat trick to clinch the game but Birtley got a consolation goal until majestic Shane Todd finished Birtleys hopes of getting back in the game

HARTLEPOOL RESERVES FC 1 V 2 SHERBURN VILLAGE WMC FC

Another tough result to take for the young Hartlepool side. In a game which they once again played some good football, a mixture of poor finishing and good goalkeeping kept them from taking a lead in the first half. Karl Hammond had 20 yarder tipped over before Jake Larkin went through and saw his placed effort tipped on to the post, with Hammond unable to connect with the follow up. Sherburn looked dangerous on the break with one speculative effort leaving Hartlepool goalkeeper Ryan Harriss Kitt a spectator only to be helped out by the crossbar. HT 0-0 in the second period it was more of the same, chances went begging for both sides Hammond forced another good save and Harriss Kitt came to the rescue, deflecting wide as Sherburn raced clear. The opening goal came with a hint of controversy, a ball played out to the Sherburn right winger and everyone stopped as he seemed 3 yards offside, the Referee looked to his assistant, no signal came so the man in the middle played on leaving Harris Kit facing 3 Sherburn players, the ball was pulled back across the 6 yard box for an easy finish and 1-0 after an hour. Less than 10 minutes later it was 2-0, a 20 yard free kick was dispatched into the top corner of the Hartlepool net. Luckily heads didn't drop and the Sherburn keeper was put under pressure following a succession of corners and crosses in to his box, he dealt with near enough everything until Karl Hammond fired high into the net from 18 yards following a strong run from his strike partner O'Sullivan. Hartlepool pressed for the equaliser but it wouldn't come. Another narrow defeat for the young Hartlepool Reserves side, best for the home side was debutant Charlie Grant who was a rock in central defence, with the Sherburn 'keeper excelling.

 

 

 

 

WEDNESDAY AUGUST 20TH 2014

HARTLEPOOL FC RESERVES 0 V 3 CHESTER-LE-STREET TOWN WHITEHILL

Chester travelled to league new boys Hartlepool FC Reserves and their experience showed as they travelled home with a 3-0 win. That said FC were no pushovers. FC's defensive line worked excellently against the sharp attack of CLS and they in turned pressed well and closed the ball down when FC were in possession. A quick break down the left broke the deadlock when the CLS goal scorer rose almost unchallenged to head home. That 1-0 lead carried into the break. The second half saw FC having to make some enforced substitutions shortly after the break and a defensive mistake handed CLS a penalty that they converted. This took the wind out of FC's sails and another breakaway followed by an excellent chip saw CLS increase their lead to 3. FC battled hard and had a number of chances within the game but it just wasn't their night. Goal scorers for CLS were Jamie Kelly (2) and Matthew Smith. MOM were Carl O'Sullivan for FC and Michael Graver for CLS

HYLTON SC 9 V 0 JARROW FC GOLD

First fixture of the season for Jarrow FC Gold at the Billy Hardy complex against Hylton who had a very hard game Monday night, Hylton still had a strong squad of players to pick from and decided 3-5-2 would suit best to start. Hylton started with ease passing the ball around the young Jarrow lads and it didn't take long for the first chance, James Cassidy down the right to Wooton 1 on 1 but keeper parried wide, Wooton made up for the last chance with a long ball from Morrow. 1-0 Wooton. Both Hylton’s wingers were pressing the full back well and a multitude of chances were missed but Hylton kept the pressure on and a fine 1-2 from Cassidy to Humble made it 2-0 Humble. Jarrow midfield are made to work hard but couldn't keep up the pace and a Kyle Sumner cross was easy to convert for Liam Wooton 3-0 25 mins gone 4-0 Humble. A surprising error by Morrow let Jarrow break free but was hit high and wide, Hylton played from the back to Cassidy who crossed to the oncoming Liam Wooton header 5-0. Again Hylton passed the ball with ease making Jarrow work very hard then a Humble free kick from the edge of the box, top corner 6-0 Humble.
2nd half one change for Hylton with Humble for Mark Curry, Jarrow change the keeper. 2nd half was pretty much the same as the Hylton boys kept the ball for most of the match but it took 15 mins before Alan Golightly received the ball and made the most of it with a fine chip over the keeper, Golightly 7-0.
Nearing the end of the game and Jarrow look deflated which gave opportunities to Lee Scott 8-0 and another fine goal from Liam Wooton 9-0 Man of the match James Cassidy (Hylton)

WHEATLEY HILL WMC FC 4 V 1 BISHOP AUCKLAND RESERVES

Tonight’s game started with a very high tempo, both teams attacking and defending well. However Wheatley Hill broke the deadlock mid way through the 1st half with a good bit of skill from Sean Bradley in the box drawing a foul and winning a penalty which was slotted home by Philly Hickman. And Wheatley Hill ended the half 1 nil up. Bishop started the second half very well and had equalized with Lewis Dunn scoring from a tight angle before Wheatley Hill had even started. However with some great defending and a quickly taken free kick by Richie Carr, Liam Cockerill managed to slot home from the edge of the area. From there Wheatley Hill stepped it up a gear and a great dummy from David Jackson left Richie Carr free to beat the keeper with a cool finish. And to round off a great performance the ball fell nicely inside the area for David Jackson who managed to find the top corner with a great finish. Well battled game.

HORSLEY HILL FC 3 V 0 EBCHESTER CONSETT RESERVES

After an end to end first half Horsley Hill FC got the break through a good finish by Tom West. In the second half Horsley Hill took control of the game and added 2 more goals through Adam Bell and Tom West slotted home to give the Hill a 3 - 0 win

SEDGEFIELD NETPARK 3 V 0 SHILDON RESERVES

Netpark started in the front foot, on 10mins Stephen Flockett broke from midfield but his lob bounce off the bar. Not long after a long throw by Duddin was headed in by Hornsby 1-0. £mins later and Hornsby had a shot blocked by the Shildon keeper and Blackburn followed up to make it 2-0. After that chances were at a minimum for both teams, h/t 2-0 As the last few games Netpark started flat 2nd half allowing Shildon to gain more possession, Shildon had a great chance to pull one back on 65mins when a cross to the far post was put wide, then Clifford had a chance 5mins after but hit the Netpark crossbar. Netpark made a change and straight away substitute Brian Fairhurst started to hold and link the play upfront. A great interchange down the right saw the overlapping Graham Kime pull back a great cross for substitute Phillip Bland to finish well 3-0. Another great move saw Andrew Blackburn finished well with a volley but the linesman had flagged for offside. Overall a close game but Netpark took their chances and defended well from front to back, another great win...., f/t 3-0

SHERBURN VILLAGE WMC FC 1 V 3 COUNDON & LEEHOLME YOUTH FC

Sherburn and Coundon are certainly no strangers to each other. Having met on 5 occasions in the league and cup last season. With Coundon winning all 5 games the underdogs Sherburn were in for a tough game tonight . The game started pretty even up until 15mins when a header from Mark Wood put Coundon ahead. Coundon were awarded a penalty on 23mins but a great save by James Winter kept the game at 1-0. On 28 mins a cross from Omar Mustafa was struck by Scott Arnott from 14 yes into Coundons net 1-1. 5mins later a great ball through by Sherburn’s Mustafa was met by Gary Dodds who put his shot just wide Sherburn were on top but on 38mins a mistake by Sherburn’s defence let in Coundons no 9 Steven Johnson to slot home 2-1 with a great right foot strike . 2mins before half time Coundons Liam Bowes struck a goal bound shot which was deflected for a corner .the half ended 2-1. From kick off Sherburn were awarded a corner and a header from Scott Arnott struck the bar. The game was end to end Coundon looked really strong but Sherburn were counter attacking. On 65 mins Sherburn went close again another header by Arnott went just over the bar. A penalty to Sherburn was awarded by the referee but over ruled by the linesman’s decision .which didn't go down well with Sherburn. Sherburn were still pushing the game but on 80 mins Coundon finished the game when Ben Collinson scored to make it 3-1.

MURTON AFC 2 V 3 FERRYHILL TOWN

Murton made a quick start to the contest and within 15 minutes found themselves 2-0 up following two goals from Winspear. Unfortunately for them this was as good as it got as Ferryhill battled well from 2-0 behind and soon got on top towards the end of the first half pulling one back to make it 2-1. They continued their comeback in the second half and got an equaliser mid way through followed by a deserved late winner from a set piece. Final score Murton 2 Ferryhill 3.

MONDAY AUGUST 18TH 2014

SHERBURN VILLAGE WMC FC 1 V 4 HYLTON SC

Sherburn started the match the stronger side with a chance by Sherburn’s striker Nicky Marley putting the ball just wide on 3mins. Sherburn then had a another chance on 10 when Gary Dodds struck a low shot from 12yds which Hylton’s keeper palmed just past the post . Hylton then came into the game thanks to an own goal by Sherburn’s Steve Bowes. Hylton then made it 2-0 when striker Kevin Humble converted a very dubious penalty. On 40 mins Hylton’s Humble made it 3-0 with a great strike from 20yds leaving the keeper well beaten. Hylton ended the half the stronger and we're well worth their 3-0 lead. Second half saw Sherburn come back into the game on 60 mins when winger Omar Mustafa crossed from the left which was met by forward Niki Marley to slot into the net. Hylton were awarded a penalty on 70 mins which was well saved by keeper Pritchard. Hylton then finished the game off on 75mins when Kevin Davis broke through to score his 4th.

WALLSEND TOWN 1 V 0 HORSLEY HILL

A great fought end to end action game for the mutual spectator to watch. Horsley hill come out strong as did Wallsend town with both teams missing several chances but it was a bit of magic from Wallsend town striker Derek graham striking the ball from 20 yards out to clip the underside of the bar on the 82nd minute to clinch the game for Wallsend town.

SHILDON RESERVES 1` V 1 HARTLEPOOL FC RESERVES

A game of high quality, commitment and excitement ended in draw and that was a fair result. The game was played at dean street Shildon which added to the atmosphere and both sets of players rose to the occasion. The game was very even until Shildon took the lead with a powerful header from a Michael Nichol corner. Shildon dominated the rest of the half but couldn't add to their tally. Hartlepool came out strongly in the second half but couldn't get the equaliser. Both sides then had chances to score but the visitors pulled level with a well taken goal from Sam Harrison. Shildon then had a great chance to snatch a winner but the game ended in a draw. A great advert for the Durham alliance league that was played in a very competitive manner and a very fair result.

CHESTER-LE-STREET TOWN WHITEHILL 1 V 2 COUNDON & LEEHOLME YOUTH FC

This game was an excellent advert for the Durham Alliance League, with two committed teams and the result could have gone either way.
Whitehill started just the better of the two sides in this close game Tommy Wray had the first excellent chance on 20 mins, and two mins later a great build up by the home side saw Jamie Kelly bring out an excellent save from the keeper who turned the ball round for a corner kick. Coundon went close with a far post header on the half hour mark but the half time score stood at 0-0 .The game turned on 50 minutes when Karl Raine beat Jack Taylor to the ball and lobbed the Whitehill keeper for 0-1 to Coundon. Whitehill were two down when ten mins later a shot from distance found its way over the keeper to give Coundon a grip on the game. Whitehill pressed and made it 1-2 when Matty Nichols shot and Stephen Jackson deflected the ball with his head to give an exciting finish to the game. Both teams deserved something from the game but it was Coundon who took the three vital points this time around.

MURTON AFC 5 V 3 WHEATLEY HILL WMC FC

Murton claimed their second victory of the season following a competitive contest with Wheatley hill, after taking an early lead through a Williams’s goal Wheatley hill equalised from the penalty spot. Heavy rain made for slippy playing conditions and following an evenly balanced first half Murton led 3-2 following an outstanding solo goal from mustard and a neat finish from Grayson. Murton continued to push forward in the second half however Wheatley hill also looked dangerous breaking forward, a further goal from mustard and one from Winspear sealed the points for Murton. Wheatley hill did pull one back late one through a 25 years screamer however the match finished Murton 5 Wheatley hill 3.

FERRYHILL TOWN 2 V 5 EBCHESTER CONSETT RESERVES

 Ferryhill town 2-5 Ebchester Reserves. Ebchester scored 4 goals in the first half playing some nice football. Second half Ebchester got another goal through a own goal by Ferryhill town forward Shane Snaith but Snaith replied with a 30 yard goal lobbing the keeper then he scored his second taking it past two defenders and then past keeper to slot into the top corner with a hard angel Ferryhill better team second half but Ebchester got the three points of good first half performance

 

 

SATURDAY AUGUST 16TH 2014

EBCHESTER CONSETT RESERVES 2 V 3 SHILDON RESERVES

Shildon came up to windy Consett for Ebchester’s first home game of the season. The first half started with both teams playing some good football and probing to make chances. It was Ebchester who took the lead, a foul on Richard Parkin allowed Michael Hannant to step up to the spot and coolly send the keeper the wrong way. It wasn't long before Shildon hit back, the centre forward showing good movement to lose the centre half and slot the ball into the bottom corner. Just before half time Ebchester took the lead again, a direct ball forward cleared the Shildon defence and Dan Graham half volleyed the ball into the far corner, a great finish. The second half Shildon came out of the blocks the stronger team. With the wind behind them they put a lot of pressure on a resilient Ebchester. With 15 minutes to go Shildon got the equaliser, with the second penalty of the game. Ebchester keeper was judged to have fouled the Shildon defence. Shildon put the penalty away but were asked to retake due to the wind causing the ball to roll. The midfielder for Shildon put the ball in the same corner to equal the score at 2-2. It wasn't long before Shildon were ahead, a deflection off an Ebchester midfielder looped the ball over the defence and the Shildon centre forward judged a good lob to take the lead. In the final 10 minutes Ebchester started to push forward a bit more and created a couple of half chances but were never able to find the equaliser. Shildon edging a good game 3-2.

SEDGEFIELD NETPARK 2 V 0 SHERBURN VILLAGE WMC FC

Again a very strong wind with Netpark playing into it on the 1st half, they dealt with it really well limiting Sherburn to long balls. An early goal by Stephen Tirland for Netpark on 6mins settled the home team with chances at a minimum for both teams h/t 1-0. Second half and Netpark started to knock the ball about a lot better and keeping possession, on 65mins Jonathan Taylor cut inside and sent a 25 yarded sailing over Winters head and into the roof of the net 2-0. Netpark kept it tight and saw out the game, however Sherburn had a penalty right in the last dying seconds that their player skied high and over the bar....... f/t 2-0

FERRYHILL TOWN FC 0 V 3 WHEATLEY HILL WMC FC

Ferryhill town 0 - 3 Wheatley Hill. End to end game Wheatley Hill taking the lead through a penalty to make it one nil then Ferryhill centre forward Shane Sanity missing a one and one to equalise a sitter from the forward then Wheatley Hill scored their second with a close range tap in then twenty minutes to go Ferryhill forward Shane Sanity had two chances just over the bar then Wheatley Hill sealed the game with the third with a close range tap in

WHITEHILL FC 5 V 2 BISHOP AUCKLAND RESERVES

Whitehill ended the game with the same result as last week against Bishop Auckland Res, with a 5-2 win at Chester Moor. Whitehill had a great chance as early as the 2nd minute, but the keeper made a great save, On 5 mins Thomas Wray was brought down in the box and Mathew Smith stepped up from the penalty spot .Bobby Gibson levelled for the visitors with a fantastic free kick on form 20 yards for 1-1.  Whitehill took the lead again on 25 mins when Stephen Jackson shot from the edge of the box. Once again Bishop got back in the game following sloppy defending on the half hour mark through Tom Knight. H.T. 2-2 The second half saw to the home side take the lead on 57 mins from Stephen Wood. It was 4-2 on 70 mins when a Ryan Drummond cross was met by Paul Botcherby who rifled the ball into the roof of the net for 4-2. The points were sealed on 88 mins when Scot Hope made it 5-2.

HORSLEY HILL FC 2 V 0 HYLTON SC

Horsley Hill FC continued their unbeaten run in the Durham Alliance league. They came from a goal behind to win 3 -1 in what was an end to end game. Sunderland Hylton took the lead through ' Liam Wooton' before star man Kevin Davison, Andrew Taylor and Chris Watson replied to give the Hill the three points. Both Teams give a good account of themselves but it was Horsley Hill, who finally took control of game, to go on and win the game

COUNDON & LEEHOLME YOUTH FC 7 V 1 BIRTLEY TOWN FC

Coundon scored soon after starting with a goal by Liam Bowes. Birtley then quickly equalised. Coundon got themselves settled and took the lead again with a goal by Scott Hastie. Coundon then started to put pressures on Birtley with goals from Steve Johnson, Gavin Wilson and Mark Wood giving Coundon a 5-i lead after twenty five minutes. After half time Coundon scored another quick goal by Steve Johnson. After having played some good football Coundon seemed to switch off and most of the second half was poor but a good 6-1 win a deserved result

MURTON AFC 3 V 1 BRANDON UNITED RESERVES

Murton made a sluggish start to the match which resulted in Brandon taking a deserved early lead through a quick counter attack. Brandon was unfortunate to lose 2 of their players through injury during the first period meaning they had to make 2 unforced changes. Murton took control of the game mid way through the first half and equalised from a set piece just before half time which was kept alive before mustard eventually finished from close range. Murton nearly took the lead through a Milne header which came back off the underside of the crossbar. Murton continued to press on after half time; Brandon battled well and kept them at bay until 10 minutes from the end when Murton were awarded a penalty which mustard smashed home. Murton wrapped up the victory 3 minutes from time when debutants Arkwright and Ruddock combined well with mustard before Arkwright slotted the home into bottom corner. Final score Murton 3 Brandon Reserves 1.

HARTLEPOOL FC RESERVES 2 V 5 WALLSEND TOWN

The first half was poor from both sides. Wallsend took the lead on 35 mins  after  Hartlepool lost the ball on half way. Hartlepool missed two tackles and Wallsend broke away and the ball was squared to the back post for an easy finish. HT 0-1 iIn the second half Wallsend went 2 up 5 mins in after a mistake between the Hartlepool defence and keeper left an open goal. Hartlepool pulled one back on the hour when Carl O'sullivan broke away down the left, cut inside and his ball across was deflected in by a defender for an o.g. Wallsend then went 3-1 and 4-1 following a poor shout for offside and then a free header.  Wallsend went 5-1 after a poor kick out from the keeper went straight to the striker and he finished bottom corner. Jack Swales pulled one back 5mins from the end after another good run from Carlo )’Sullivan down the left, his ball across found Swales coming in round the back and he side footed home. Man of the match was Captain Aaron Doyle

 

WEDNESDAY AUGUST 13TH 2014

HARTLEPOOL FC RESERVES 3 V 4 SEDGEFIELD NETPARK

This was definitely a game of two halves. Sedgefield visited Grayfields and looked a solid passing outfit from the whistle. They dominated play with some neat passing and link up play with the strikers and were 2-0 up with 7 minutes with a free header from a set piece and an OG from a breakaway. Sedgefield continued to pile the pressure and made it 3-0 before the break. The second half was a different story and Hartlepool pulled one back within 3 minutes of the restart from a corner kick. Hartlepool had a renewed vigour and shortly after made it 3-2 with a well taken goal. With Sedgefield on the rack FC shot themselves in the foot when a mistake allowed them to increase the lead 4-2 but Hartlepool did not give up and pulled another one back with a headed goal from another corner kick. FC piled on the pressure but could not find that elusive equaliser. Sedgefield's scorers were Smyth, White, Fields and an OG from Cartwright. Hartlepool goal scorers were Close (2) and Sweeting

FERRYHILL TOWN 0 V 3 SHERBURN VILLAGE WMC FC

Ferryhill Town v Sherburn. Good competetive game with Sherburn’s number 6 Scott Arnott creating all the chances. Ferryhill came close with a ball over top to forward Jamie graham missing just wide. Sherburn then scored when centre half Karl Nattrass tried a Cruyf turn in his own box and Sherburn took the ball of him and tapped it in past Ferryhills keeper. Ferryhill reacted playing some lovely football but couldn’t put them away Sherburn themselves was also playing some great football then they snatched there second with a close range tap in with a good counter attack. and Sherburn then got the third goal with a 10 yard drive into the bottom corner Sherburn deserved all three points with Ferryhill waiting eight great chances

BISHOP AUCKLAND RESERVES 4 V 1 BIRTLEY FC

Bishop Auckland Reserves opened their Durham Alliance account with a terrific 4-1 victory over Birtley FC at Heritage Park, with the pitch in fine condition. Having got off to the perfect start in their opening encounter, the home side bettered their start with a wonderful lob from Lewis Martin after just 16 seconds. The home side looked in the mood in the opening exchanges, with Lewis Martin guilty of not doubling their advantage on 2 further occasions in the opening 10 minutes - both relatively simple opportunities. The advantage was doubled however after Martin made a powerful run down the left channel before pulling a ball back for Alex Cantwell to fire home from the edge of the area on 25 minutes. Nerves developed however with Birtley pulling one back a few minutes later with a lovely lob over the on rushing keeper. But nerves were settled on 35 minutes with the goal of the game - Lewis Dunn (unlucky not to add to his tally on a number of occasions over the night) pulled a wonderful cross from the right side for Lewis Martin to powerfully header across the keeper. Birtley started positively in the second half, probing a few half chances but the home side remained strong defensively throughout. Further chances came as Cantwell and Dunn both fired straight at the keeper from the left side. It was however left to Captain Michael Owens to head home the winner to settle nerves from a perfect Fitzgerald corner. Substitute Jake Finlay went close twice in the final stages to cap off a terrific team performance. Three points and relieve all round!

HORSLEY HILL FC 3 V 1 MURTON AFC

Following a tight first half, ending 0-0, Horsley Hill's youth and passing game began to dominate proceedings in the second. They went 1-0 up when Scott Graham latched onto a through ball and slotted home. Andrew Taylor (Mom) then scored a brace; in between which Murton converted a penalty.

SATURDAY AUGUST 9TH 2014

SEDGEFIELD NET PARK 6 V 2 MURTON AFC

In very windy conditions both teams struggled to find any rhythm. Murton took the lead after 14mins after a good move. Netpark equalised on 20mins through Alan Jones, just before the half time interval Martyn Musgrave floated a lovely free kick over everyone and into the side netting, h/t 2-1 Netpark made changes as lads had to leave for a wedding. The fresh legs made an instant impact on the game with Brian Fairhurst curling a great free kick into the corner to make it 3-1. After 60mins a cross from Fairhurst eluded everyone with Lewis White getting the last touch 4-1. Netpark began to keep the ball well and after 70mins it was game over with Jack Marley finishing well with a low drive 5-1. Then on 80mins Brian Fairhurst scored another great goal with a half volley that left the Murton keeper stranded. Murton pulled a goal back before the final whistle. Fantastic result for Netpark on their Durham Alliance League debut, f/t 6-2

WHEATLEY HILL WMC FC 0 V 3 COUNDON & LEEHOLME YOUTH FC

The game started slowly as both teams tried to find their feet against a very strong wind. Coundon pushed on and took the lead half way through the first. And taking their chances well then doubled their lead just before half time. Wheatley Hill came out stronger and a bit more organised in the second half but struggled against the wind and struggling to find the target in front of goal. Coundon then put the well fought game to bed with about 15 minutes to go with some good football and once again taking there

WALLSEND TOWN 6 V 2 EBCHESTER CONSETT RESERVES

It was a great game for the mutual spectator as Ebchester got off to a flying start within the first ten minutes with a long ball over the towns defence for Lee peacock to run onto it and slot it past town’s keeper. But then Wallsend town decided to wake up and take the game by scruff of the neck and went on attack after attack against Ebchester’s goal with their keeper pulling of several saves but it came from a lovely bit of footwork from Paul bell to get himself in the box and put it on a plate for Derek Graham to pass the ball into the back of the net for the equaliser on the 25th minute and then 5 minutes later Ryan Arnott made it 2-1 to town and with five minutes left of the first half Paul bell pops up and makes it 3-1 for Wallsend town to go into the interval leading.. The 2nd half kicks off with Wallsend town picking up where they left off with attacking football once again leading to Paul bell to score his 2nd and make it 4-1 to town. Ebchester started to attack more which Wallsend capitalised on by counter attacking football which led to Derek Graham scoring his 2nd of the match to make it 5-1. But that didn't stop Ebchester who kept on attacking and got several corners and result of one of them corners Ebchester scored to make it 5-2. So once again Wallsend town kick off again and Ebchester steal the ball straight back and come on the attack which resulted in Wallsend towns keeper pulling off a fine save and setting up a counter attack which Derek Graham received a long ball from Rikki Donaldson who then went on to set up Paul bell for his hatrick to round of a fine performance to make it 6-2.

 SHERBURN VILLAGE WMC 3 V 3 HORSLEY HILL FC

Horsley Hill started off the better team and had a couple of good chances early on. Sherburn then came into the game and had a great chance to take the lead but a header by striker Joe Simpson went just wide of the post. Horsley Hill took the lead when the Sherburn defence were caught flat footed and Horsley’s Scott Graham slotted home. Horsley’s Kevin Davison was causing Sherburn problems, and on 25mins Davison scored Horsley’s second with a great solo run through Sherburn’s defence and put the ball beyond the keeper. Straight after Sherburn’s Martin Clough was brought down in the box the resulting penalty was converted by Sherburn’s Scott Arnott. The game was end to end then Sherburn’s defence were caught again and Horsley went 3-1 up with a goal by Aaron Graham. Sherburn then piled on the pressure and on 40mins were well worth their second goal when Sherburn’s Andrew Chester got on the end of a corner to put the ball over the line. The half ended 3-2 to Horsley Hill. The second half started with Sherburn the stronger side and had chance after chance to take the lead but could not get past Horsley’s keeper James Lone. The home team then got there reward on 75min when Craig Jackson back healed a low cross from Joe Simpson into the Horsley’s net. Sherburn’s Joe Simpson was causing a tiring Horsley defence huge problems and on 84mins could have given Sherburn all three points but with the keeper well beaten his shot skimmed the post. The game ended 3-3 both teams put on a great show.

 BISHOP AUCKLAND RESERVES 2 V 5 CHESTER-LE-STREET TOWN WHITEHILL

Opening day of the Durham Alliance season did not disappoint with an entertaining game between two new boys to the league. The home side came flying out of the blocks, opening the scoring with just two minute on the clock a neat one-two between Alex Cantwell & Lewis Martin allowed the latter to fire home from an angle. The lead could have been doubled a few minutes later, as Martin missed the keeper to only see his effort go around the post too. The visitors struck back on 18 minutes with a well taken effort from an angle, before taking the lead 2 minutes later following a wicked deflection. Chances fell to both teams in the remainder of the half, with again Lewis Martin a threat. Lewis Dunn could also have equalised after being played through, but he was adjudged to have fouled the tracking defender.

The second half again sprung into life on 48 minutes. A great knock down from Martin allowed Lewis Dunn to force a powerful left footed effort into the left corner. The game continued to be tight, but a lack of concentration on 60 and 65 minutes allowed the visitors to race to a 2 goal advantage. Bishop Auckland Reserves tried to mount a comeback, but remained a little sloppy in possession. The game was rounded up on 75 minutes as Pinder was unlucky in possession at right back, with a resulting cross finding its way to the back post for an easy tap in. Lewis Rowell tried a speculative 40 yard effort that the keeper tipped over, before Louis Fitzgerald was denied by a good save, with Dunn and Cantwell unable to poke home a consolation. Chester-le-Street were overall deserved winners playing some tidy football, but the home side could feel a little aggrieved they failed to get anything from the game had they played with the possession seen pre-season.

BIRTLEY FC 3 V 0 BRANDON UNITED RESERVES

Birtley FC made their debut in the Durham Alliance football league with a 3-0 win over Brandon Utd reserves FC thanks to 3 first half goals from James Ward's brace (20' 35') and Jack Kelly (27').

 HARTLEPOOL FC RESERVES 2 V2 SHILDON RESERVES

Outstanding effort for both team with Hartlepool playing in their first ever Durham Alliance League game. Shildon visited Grayfields and let their quality show in the first 15. FC got themselves into the game but were undone by Shildon using a wind advantage to go 2-0 up before half time with goals from Jay Balfour and Stephen Clifford. In the second half it was FC who raced out of the blocks and pulled one back within 7 minutes with a quickly taken free kick to pull one back. FC squandered two more before FC striker raced through to slot past the Shildon keeper. FC's goals come from Jake Larkin and Carl O'Sullivan