FA Vase Third Round 7 December 2013

SPENNYMOOR TOWN V BRIDLINGTON TOWN

It’s a grey, still day at the Brewery Field but cool rather than cold with the pitch looking good for the time of year. These two met in the Vase last year, at Bridlington, when Spennymoor’s 5-1 victory started off the run to their Wembley win, but the Northern Counties East League team are in good form and will be no pushover.

Prior to kick off as the teams line up, Spennymoor in their white shirts with black cross and Bridlington in all red, a minute’s applause is held in memory of the recently deceased Nelson Mandela. It’s well delivered, but with a sparse crowd a silence may have been more impressive.

Bridlington kick off, playing uphill, which means Spennymoor won the toss and decided to go down the slope in the first half – maybe looking to kill off the game quickly. And centre forward Henderson signals this intent early with a firm shot from distance into the chest of the Bridlington keeper.

The momentum is halted just seven minutes in when a 50-50 challenge leaves Bridlington’s Lee down hurt; his team seem to have turned up without a physio, but aid comes from the home bench before the stricken midfielder is stretchered off. Bridlington are also poorly off for substitutes, with Ramm getting the nod from the three available.

Spennymoor get back on the attack with wingers Phillips and Walton both able to create space and cross well. A Phillips cross is headed just wide by Henderson, and when a Walton centre is headed out it is Phillips who hits a rising drive not far over the angle. It is 20 minutes before Bridlington get a strike on goal, and that sails well over the bar.

The home team continue to press with a Walton shot well saved. A good run by the same man takes him past defenders deep into the penalty area; his final lunge provides a cross shot that his strike partner Cogden stabs over the line from close range. Spennymoor are worth more than a one goal lead and Henderson tries to enhance it with first a header and then a shot, both narrowly wide.

Bridlington get out of their half rarely but, as the break beckons, get a free kick opportunity just outside the box. The Spennymoor defensive wall does its job but when a second free kick is awarded further out, the angled cross produces a Bridlington header, on target but into keeper Jeffries hands.

The half time 1-0 lead is poor reward for Spennymoor and although Bridlington have only threatened from set pieces, it would take only one to work for the game to be back in the balance. The home team have been good in patches but their usual fluidity is lacking possibly due to having men playing out of position to cover absent colleagues, in particular the suspended Graydon.

The second half continues with Spennymoor pressure and a succession of corners. From one of these, Moore wins a header and as his deflected effort hovers invitingly a yard from goal Henderson climbs highest to nod over the line. Two nil with half an hour to go is more comfortable for the home team and with Bridlington now forced to have a go, spaces appear behind their back line. Cogden exploits one to race clear but with just the keeper to beat lifts his shot high over the bar.

Bridlington attack once more, forcing a save from Jeffries, but again they are stretched at the back as Walton and Henderson put together a good move down the right that eventually gives a shooting chance to Phillips, who blazes wide. The pattern repeats with a header from Bridlington centre back Aziz saved and then quickly distributed by Jeffries to Henderson and then to Cogden who volleys over. Cogden gets another chance from a corner but his side-foot, while precise, lacks sufficient power to penetrate the Bridlington goal line defences.

A rash of late substitutions has little effect, apart from giving a new lease of life to Bridlington’s Sutton who is suddenly posing a threat, too late to make a difference. His free kick, deflected by a teammate, dribbles just wide of the post; he then beats a couple of defenders and closes in on Jeffries before shooting wide; and finally draws a couple of free kicks deep in Spennymoor territory that could have spelled danger but fizzled out.

The game ends 2-0 for Spennymoor, a satisfactory rather than spectacular result that sees them through to the next round. Bridlington seemed to come with stretched resources and low expectations, which were amply fulfilled.

 

FA Vase Second Round 16 November 2013

WEST AUCKLAND TOWN V SHILDON

This is not just a big game, it is huge. Both Northern League teams are going well, Shildon top of the league and West Auckland unbeaten in league and cup games (exiting the FA Cup only on penalties). Both have FA Vase pedigree: Shildon went out in last season’s semi-final and West Auckland were losing finalists the season before. And it’s a local derby with the towns less than 4 miles apart, so there’s plenty of interest and a bit of a queue to get in.

The day has been fine but with the winter sun is sinking fast leaving a cool dry late afternoon, and the soon to be floodlit pitch is showing signs of wear that may lead to some bobbling balls to deal with. West are in their amber and black shirts which also sport two discreet stars to commemorate their 1909 and 1911 ‘world cup’ wins; Shildon have changed from their usual red to blue.

After an early Shildon attack with winger Ruddy beating his man and getting a cross in, West look the more dangerous with a couple of well delivered corners; one to the near post is headed off the line and then one to the far finds Moffat who heads just wide, although penalised for a push. A West free kick from the edge of the box beats the wall but is headed clear from deep in the box; from the resulting corner a West head gets to the ball but it goes just over the bar.

Amid a sprinkling of bookings, inevitable given the competitive nature of the game, another chance come to West but Richardson’s shot gets a slight deflection that carries it over the bar; from that corner an ambitious volley flies high into the neighbouring housing estate.

At half time no goals but an absorbing struggle, with little time for midfielders to create or forwards to linger on the ball. West have had the balance of play with lots of corners, some dangerous, others not. Apart from set plays two ex- Spennymoor teammates have looked most likely to break the deadlock: for west Richardson has had a couple of strikes that may have tested the keeper more had not deflections taken the sting out; for Shildon, Ruddy has turned his fullback inside out two or three times but his crosses have not posed the problems they should have.

Four of the last six meetings between these two have ended in a draw with the other two ending in a single goal victory each, so one second half goal could settle this; or extra time, or a replay, or penalties.

Five minutes into the second half a slick one-two down the left puts West full back Green clear to centre well, but Richardson’s stooped header goes wide. Hudson responds for Shildon with a good run and firm shot into the keeper’s chest.

Substitutions begin after 62 minutes when West replace the limping Vipond by Garthwaite; three minutes later the newcomer picks up the ball in midfield, drives forward unchallenged and hits a screaming shot into the top corner of the net.

The 1-0 lead sits well with West and they look more comfortable, getting further attempts on goal. Centre forward Moffat nods the ball off to Briggs who shoots powerfully but wide; from a corner centre half Hall heads goal-wards but keeper Graham pounces on the ball before it can cross the line; Knight tries an expansive scissor kick volley that flies just over.

An expected late surge from Shildon amounts to very little, and when their substitutions are made, Kerr’s first contribution is to rescue his keeper, beaten to a loose ball by Moffat, with a goal-line clearance. The final moments are disappointingly spent with West happy to clown around near the corner flags; this and their reaction to the final whistle, shows how important the 1-0 result is to them.

So a single second half goal did settle it, and it was a goal worthy of seeing West Auckland through to the next round. For Shildon this is their first and last Vase tie of the season, quite a contrast to last season’s run – but that’s cup football.

FA Cup First Round 9 November 2013

HARTLEPOOL UNITED v NOTTS COUNTY

It’s cool but bright, drying out from earlier showers that have left the surface at Victoria Park slick and green. The ground, compact with plenty of cover for both seated and standing spectators, is filling nicely with the home fans optimistic despite facing at team from the league above.

The omens are interesting. After a sticky start, Hartlepool’s recent results have earned the League 2 manager of the month award for Colin Cooper, and young forward Luke James has bagged the player of the month award. However these often presage a poor performance; and although Notts County are at the bottom end of League 1, they have just changed manager, which often gives a team a boost.

The teams come out and, it being the Saturday before Remembrance Day, a minutes silence is observed, impeccably, with only the continued clicking of the turnstiles to be heard as late comers enter the eerily quiet stadium. Hartlepool are wearing a special kit of white shirts with a vertical blue band with a red poppy motif. Notts County are in an eye-catching away strip of deep purple shirts and socks clashing with bright yellow shorts, (these do however match the officials’ shirts).

Hartlepool start the stronger creating two or three dangerous situations in the first quarter hour, and winning several corners. These are distinguished by worse than normal wrestling and wrangling, and the home players’ complaints are finally heeded by the referee who issues a stern lecture. When the next corner comes over centre back Baldwin is able to get an unimpeded run and crashes a header into the net to give Hartlepool a deserved lead.

Notts County have shown little and from the restart merely pump the ball long and diagonal, but full back Austin’s header back to his keeper is misjudged and Flinders can’t prevent it going for a corner. This is swung into the crowded box where it pinballs around before coming to rest in the Hartlepool goal, with Leacock getting the final, if inadvertent, touch.

The lead lasted a minute, and the County goal has given them belief and confidence that starts to reflect in their play. Conversely the home team are visibly deflated, and are on the back foot for the next quarter of an hour with Flinders regularly in action, and one County effort grazing the post.

Slowly Hartlepool restore parity in possession and territory and it becomes a good cup tie with ebb and flow and even a bit off edge. Two minutes from half time Hartlepool’s Duckworth pushes forward from midfield and unleashes a firm shot, hard and low, that County keeper Bialkowski can only parry. Golden boy James, unremarkable to this point, anticipates this eventuality before anyone else, is quickest to the ball, and passes it calmly into the goal for 2-1.

Mindful of how long their initial lead lasted, the home team defend nervously as County come back strong, winning corners and threatening the goal. Into added time a free kick is curled into the Hartlepool box where pushing and shoving continues long after Flinders has flopped on to the ball, just about on the goal line. Repeated whistling by Mr Boyeson brings things to order and the outcome is a home free kick rather than a visitor penalty, but there’s a man booked on either side.

Notts County open the second half with more pressure but no impact, and after 15 minutes resort to a route one game plan by bringing on big centre forward Showunmi at the expense of the ball playing Grealish, who has caught the eye with his easy style and exposed shins. Hartlepool are penned back for long spells but do manage to win a corner and then a free kick in shooting distance.

Dolan curls the kick over the wall and into the post; the rebound to the edge of the box is fired back by Franks; and when that is blocked, James is on the spot again to fire home and give Hartlepool some breathing space at 3-1.

There are still 15 minutes to go and County have not given up, firing crosses from either wing into Showunmi, but Pool’s centre halves Collins and Baldwin cope well until, with five minutes remaining, a loose ball falls to County substitute Murray who hooks the ball into the roof of the net from close range.

More scares ensue but Hartlepool hold out for a 3-2 win in a tie that could have gone either way. The new County manager has not had instant success, Colin Cooper has defied the manager of the month curse, and Luke James has continued into November the goal-poaching instincts that earned him his award for October.

Hartlepool will hope he is still going strong in December when the next round comes around.

FA Cup Fourth Qualifying Round 26 October 2013

NO GAME

With only 32 ties across the country, and the closest in Bradford taking place on Sunday, it was a rare blank round for the Cup Run.

Hopes for a possible replay at Marske were remote, and justifiably so as they crashed out 6-2 at Southport. More realistic hopes for one at Gateshead were dashed in a more positive fashion by a good away win, 1-0 at Chester.

Normal service will be resumed for the first round proper.

FA Vase First Round 19 October 2013

BILLINGHAM SYNTHONIA V GUISBOROUGH TOWN

Central Avenue is the venue for this tie between teams well used to facing each other in the Northern League. Synthonia are in form with some good recent wins; Guisborough are not faring so well in the league but have had a good FA Cup run up to the third qualifying round, losing to Workington only last week. Both teams can have realistic hopes of progressing deep into the later rounds of the Vase so stakes today are high.

Early rain has cleared to leave the day cloudy but mild with just enough breeze to ruffle the corner flags, green and white echoing the home teams quartered shirts; there’s no clash with the visitor’s normal red and white stripes but they have chosen to wear their away strip of blue with white trim.

Billingham kick off but in a cagey start it’s Guisborough who have the early strikes at goal with long range efforts from Martin and Gell that fly harmlessly high and wide. Synthonia respond in kind with full back Alderson getting forward, his shot is on target but thumps into the keeper’s chest.

Synthonia begin to get the better of the play. Centre back Burton is influential in getting the ball forward quickly and after 15 minutes feeds Sweet down the left; although he crosses slightly behind Porritt, the forward executes a clever flick to control the ball, create space and shoot. It’s from a narrow angle and keeper Escritt is able to block the effort. He’s back in action moments later saving a first time shot from Sweet.

Burton’s fellow centre back Bott also likes galloping forward and gets right to the bye-line to make a centre. When Escritt fields it and bowls it out Synthonia are short at the back giving centre forward Roberts rare space to shoot, but he finds only the side netting. His further attempts to get clear are mostly frustrated by the offside flag.

Most action continues to be in the Guisborough half: full back Alderson gets forward to glance a header just wide; and then the ball is crossed from right to left and back again with Sweet at full stretch just failing to make contact with his head. The visitors do get up the other end before half time and gain a free kick out on the left. It is curled into the six yard box and keeper Briggs is finally needed as he punches clear.

Goalless at half time and the baby in the pram parked in front of the stand seats has unsurprisingly slept through it all. It’s remained cagey and desperately in need of a goal to ignite urgency into the play. Guisborough’s Marron, Gell and Martin have combined neatly in midfield but can’t get behind the Synthonia back line. Billingham look the more likely to score, with both full backs overlapping and the central defenders pushing forward; also they have had shots on target, warming Escritt’s hands, whereas Briggs has rarely been called into action.

The sun comes out with the teams for the second half, low and into Escritt’s eyes to make his job harder, but it is his opposite number Briggs who has to make the first save of the half, parrying then gathering Johnson’s shot from range.

Ten minutes into the half a Synthonia corner induces a scramble in the box, leading to a weak penalty shout as man goes down and a shot deflected for a corner; this is punched clear by Escritt and the whole spell almost constitutes excitement. There’s excitement of a different nature minutes later when a long ball out of the Guisborough defence gives Johnson a chance to nick it past Bott on the half way line and run onto goal; he does the first part well but finds he can’t do the second due to Bott scything his legs from under him. A yellow card for the Synthonia centre half – one taken for the team.

More action ensues as Synthonia’s Sweet intercepts on half way and gives Porritt a long run in on goal. Keeper Escritt gets something on the shot and a defender prevents it bobbling into the goal at the expense of a corner.

At the midpoint some substitutions are made with Onions coming on to add a bit of height to the Guisborough attack and Clarke coming on to add a bit of beef to the Synthonia midfield. Maybe it is this ballast that encourages Synthonia’s Hughes to push a bit further forward and try his luck from distance. His fierce shot is saved by Escritt but the ball rebounds to Sweet whose first time strike, from a bit of an angle, does justice to his name and flies past the grounded keeper and into the net.

Can Guisborough up their game and come back? An early attempt is snuffed out when Roberts is tackled hard and late by Clarke; the referee decides it’s a red card and Clarke departs after an 11 minute cameo.

Now against ten men the visitors have a real chance to press the game yet fail to do so keeping their back four intact and still with only two up front. When Onions receives the ball in the box he holds it up well but can find no teammate to lay it off to. Eventually Burton, who has caught the eye throughout, tidies up as usual.

As forty-five minutes ticks past, a cross from the right finds Onions in the clear, but he is flagged offside as he sweeps the ball into the net. With three minutes to add there is still chance to force extra time as nervous defending leads to free kicks deep in the Billingham half.

One from the left tempts Briggs from his line but he’s nowhere near and is relieved to see the ball come off a Guisborough head and go over the bar. Undeterred he goes again for the next free kick from a similar spot and this time fists it well clear; before the ball comes back to ground the full time whistle goes.

The 1-0 home win for Billingham is not convincing but not undeserved. Two quality strikes created and finished off the goal, and they defended well, particularly Burton who was my man of the match. Guisborough Town lacked width and belief even when against ten men, and disappointingly have now exited both national cup competitions in successive weeks.

Billingham Synthonia have negotiated a tricky tie and go on, but they will need to play better than this to make any real impact at the business end of the FA Vase.

FA Cup Third Qualifying Round 12 October 2013

MARSKE UNITED v HALESOWEN TOWN

Back to Mount Pleasant as Marske’s cup runs (and unbeaten league record) continue with a match today against Halesowen Town from the NPL Division 1 South. Of the four Northern League teams still in the FA Cup, Marske have the best chance of progressing against a team one step up in the pyramid, whereas West Auckland, Guisborough and Penrith all face Conference North teams, three steps up.

A big crowd is expected and parking is a bit of an adventure for an incomer like me, but arriving 25 minutes to kick-off is good enough to secure easy entry and a bumper 66 page programme.  The weather is grey, autumnal and threatening showers, so a spot under the shelter of the long low covered standing area along the touchline is the best bet. For the players the conditions are perfect.

Halesowen are in blue shirts and black shorts and Marske are clad in yellow and blue, as is their new mascot, or should it be Marske-ot, in the form of a human bulldog with a head more resembling a wild boar than Churchill the insurance dog; as the teams line up and go through the pre-match handshake ritual he insinuates himself into the line-up to the bemusement of the officials and opponents who find themselves grasping a huge furry mitt.

Marske start well and have two early long range strikes on goal; one by tall number nine Jennings whose volley glances the post, and the other from right back Gott that the Halesowen keeper parries away.

While Marske pass and move Halesowen look to hit early direct balls to test the pace of the defence and the organisation of the offside line, and 14 minutes in a short through ball looks equidistant between Marske keeper Dean and his centre half; as both hesitate Halesowen speedster Haseley doesn’t, getting there first to prod the ball past Dean and skip round him to slot it into the empty net.

This score is against the run of play but it settles the visitors who now have an equal share of the ball and territory, a good midfield battle developing between Butterworth and Johnston for Marske and Lait and Martin for Halesowen.

Play ebbs and flows. Marske strike with Jennings heading straight at the keeper then Halesowen have a good spell with two long throws posing danger. Marske respond with a long throw of their own that Jennings flicks on forcing keeper Pearson to react quickly and tip over the bar. Marske continue to press with a succession of corners that produce chances, an effort from Butterworth is deflected wide and another Jennings header goes just past the post.

The Marske pressure is all very well but it leaves lots of space for the speedy Haseley and the surging Lait to exploit, which they do five minutes from half time when Haseley breaks clear. A desperate tackle dispossesses him but the ball runs to Lait whose shot is only half saved by Dean, but it is enough to give Gott time to shepherd the ball clear before it reaches the goal.

It’s not quite the last action of the half. Marske produce a move of quality when Butterworth spreads the ball wide to Alexander on the right; he jinks past a defender and crosses firmly back into the path of Butterworth who, steaming in at pace, can’t get the shot on target from just ten yards out. That was the chance to go in level, but the team are still given a rousing reception as they go off for the break, one down but not out of it.

Back for the second half Marske attack early and after two minutes get a soft free kick for high feet; it is swung in to the penalty area, and as players compete for the loose ball it drops to centre half Wheatley who hammers it goalwards through the ruck and into the net for an equaliser greeted with expansive celebration by players and crowd alike. For those around me these celebrations include banging on the low metal roof of the stand creating a light rain of rusty green paint flakes to descend gently and settle on heads and shoulders.

Before the hum of excitement can die down Halesowen respond with one of their quick balls forward and again it is the impressive Haseley who latches onto it before anyone else. He’s twenty-five yards out but trusts his left foot and lashes the ball into the top corner of the net before Dean can even move.

The mood is momentarily deflated but Marske roll up their sleeves and get stuck in again. Jennings takes this a bit far when he’s second to a race onto a through ball but still goes on and clatters the keeper, earning a yellow card.  He’s soon in more legitimate action with a header that is blocked; he’s first to the rebound but that shot is well saved by Pearson.

Halesowen are sitting back on their lead, but it’s precarious. Marske left back O’Sullivan combines well with his winger to get to the by-line and cross along the six yard box, but neither Alexander nor Jennings can get a touch.

There is a good twenty minutes left but the visitors but are already trying to wind down the clock, and the referee takes action and books Tonks for time wasting; this winds up the visitors and next Martin joins him in the book for dissent.

After a rare attack from Halesowen, with substitute McKenzie just beaten by Wheatley to yet another through ball, Marske return upfield and put the ball back in the Halesowen box. The centre half miskicks and his lunge to recover sees a Marske player fall to the ground, but no penalty is given. The next attack creates a similar mêlée and this time when Alexander goes over the decision favours Marske. Alexander himself takes the penalty and coolly slots it home for 2-2.

Ten minutes left and there’s all to play for. Marske don’t relish a midweek trip to Birmingham so continue to push forward. Halesowen will settle for a draw but look rattled to be pegged back twice. It’s still level entering added time as Butterworth draws a foul 35 yards out on the right; left back O’Sullivan comes over to swing in another left footed free kick into the Halesowen box. As the ball bounces about in the crowded area Jennings finds it within his considerable range, pivots, and volleys hard and true into the back of the net. More joy erupts and more rusty green paint descends on the fans as they relish the potential winner with time nearly up.

But the minutes added on for the visitor’s time-wasting now come to their aid as the referee stubbornly refuses to blow for time. Marske drop deep, Jennings now a third centre half, as Halesowen pour forward. For the first time they look short at the back and Marske substitute McDonald uses his pace to race through and win some respite with a corner. This perversely provides space in the Marske half and Haseley again sprints through after a long ball, seemingly set on completing his hat trick. This time Dean’s desperate dive at his feet is effective and the ball is hacked clear for a throw. It’s another long one into the heart of the Marske six yard box but it’s cleared and the final whistle goes to signal a historic win for Marske and to light the touchpaper for the crowd to go wild and the bulldog to dance a jig.

As the players shake hands some unpleasantness breaks out and a mass brawl is teetered upon before calmer heads restore order and the referee singles out Halesowen’s Martin for a post-match red card. The Marske manager Ted Watts wisely gathers his players in the centre circle until the visitors have made their acrimonious exit, before leading them off to a fine ovation from the 800 plus crowd.

Persistence and perseverance paid off for Marske as possession and territorial advantage finally produced chances that were belatedly taken. Halesowen Town had more pace in the team and used it to good effect in their two goals but otherwise rarely threatened.

Marske United go further into uncharted territory with a place in the final qualifying round and while they remain unbeaten in the season who should they fear?

FA Trophy Preliminary Round 5 October 2013

OSSETT TOWN v DARLINGTON 1883

Today’s cup run is an 80 mile trip down to Ossett, by surprisingly good rail and bus links, to see the Town take on Darlington 1883 at the Ingfield Stadium. With respect to Ossett most of the interest is with the resurrected Darlington, now in their second season and, having bossed the Northern League last year, currently top of the NPL Division 1 North. However this is their first national cup tie since reformation, and it is in the competition that they won as recently as May 2011.

That interest is reflected by a good turnout of Darlo fans, who are in a clear majority in the crowd of a few hundred in the nice tidy ground, so close to the bus station that a wayward shot at one end may end up on the 127 service to Dewsbury. There is covered seating behind one goal, a couple of covered standing areas along the touchlines, and a spacious social area around the clubhouse; towering above are four mobile phone masts that double as floodlight pylons.

As kick off approaches the sun breaks through the high clouds and with no wind, a grassy surface and teams of equal league status it should be a good game. The home team are in all red and the visitors in familiar black and white.

From the start Darlington look like they mean business. Last week against Town’s neighbours Ossett Albion they score twice in the first two minutes on the way to a seven nil win, and after only 5 minutes today, winger Thompson threatens from the left. He dribbles into the box and shoots left footed, keeper Taylor saves at the near post but fails to gather cleanly giving Dowson the chance to retrieve the ball and clip it into the goal from a narrow angle.

Ossett respond with a good 1-2 in the box that ends with a close range shot being deflected for a corner. That comes to nothing but when Darlo get their chance from a corner, left back Galbraith whips it in to the near post where centre half White glances it decisively into the net for a 2-0 lead after 14 minutes.

Ossett seem to be targeting Darlington’s young full back Pilatos, whose standing up well but loses out to a fifty-fifty challenge from Ossett left winger Moke; his cross cum shot flies past the far post. In midfield for Darlington, Edwards and particularly Scott are chasing everything down; Scott battles through three players and a couple of fouls to set up Thompson for a shot that he scuffs wide. For Ossett, Moke is again strong in the challenge and sets up teammate Fox in the box (really!) whose shot is well tipped over by keeper Bell.

It’s fairly even now but Thompson is proving problematic for Ossett. Dowson finds him in space but his shot from 20 yards misfires again. Moments later he is back on the ball and as his dribble draws in defenders he passes to the opposite winger Moore who cuts in from the right and shoots left footed low into the net for 3-0.

Despite the score it is not all one way. Ossett work in right back McGrory for a firm, but off target shot; then create danger in the box that is only averted by an offside whistle. Darlington centre forward Purewall does beat the offside trap, not for the first time, and races forward; however he drifts wide and his on-target shot is saved well by Taylor.

As half time approaches Ossett have another good spell of pressure without threatening to score; but when Darlington break out Thompson sets Dowson clear down the left and his low cross into the box is forced in by Purewall under pressure from two defenders. At 4-0 Ossett are a bit shell shocked and when the ball is next in their penalty area they fail to deal with it, allowing Moore time and space to hammer a measured 20 yard drive high into the corner of the net for Darlington’s fifth and best goal of the half.

It’s game over at half time with Darlo looking likely to get another seven goal haul. There has not been five goals between the teams’ general play, however Darlington’s dominance has been emphasised by their cutting edge finishing.

The second half starts unsurprisingly in subdued fashion but Ossett are still interested and McGrory has another strong shot that Bell has to go full stretch to save; and the keeper is called into action again, snatching a dinked ball in as it bounces invitingly in the box. Next, left back Jeff finds space on the left and crosses hard and low for Eyles to side foot into the Darlington net from six yards to bring it back to 1-5.

Both sides make substitutions; Johnson and Robinson for Darlington bring some renewed intensity while Sibenge’s introduction for Ossett gives young Pilatos a fresh challenge. Both teams go through the motions producing shots and crosses that rarely threaten but maintain interest for the rest of the half. This includes a skied shot into the bus station from Ossett’s Sharry, who otherwise has caught the eye in an outnumbered midfield battle with Edwards and Scott.

The other entertaining factor in the half has been the Ossett Town supporters’ boy band that, irrespective of the score, has been cheerfully vocal throughout, particularly in their rendition of “one nil in the second half” (for the tune think of the more familiar “one nil to the Arsenal”). However in the final minute Moore, who has had a fine game, crosses from the right and Robinson fires the ball back across the keeper and into the net to spoil the chant and finish off the match making it a 6-1 win for Darlington.

So that’s the Trophy over for Ossett Town, but they are having a good FA Cup run and play in the 3^rd qualifying round at Colwyn Bay next week. For Darlo it is a good return to the competition but the next round at Buxton is likely to be tougher.

FA Cup Second Qualifying Round 28 September 2013

WEST AUCKLAND TOWN v SKELMERSDALE UNITED

Blue skies and sunshine at the newly labelled Seagrave Stadium but the air is pleasantly cool and still, giving perfect FA Cup conditions. The mild September has kept the grass green and lush with only the unique contours of the Darlington Road pitch preventing comparison with the proverbial billiard table.

West Auckland are taking on an opponent from two steps up the pyramid, but having defeated the similarly placed Whitby in the last round, they will not be overawed. During the handshake ritual the Skelmersdale team, wearing all blue, look noticeably smaller than the West Auckland players, in their amber and black; particularly Hall who towers over everyone.

West choose to play uphill in the first half, requiring 50 or so Skem fans to relocate to behind the downhill goal. They are barely in place before West’s striker Moffat links up with teammate Carr, who moves unchallenged to the edge of the Skem box and drills a shot into the  bottom corner of the net to give the home team a first minute lead.

Four minutes later the Skem defence again stand off as West’s other striker, Campbell cuts in a few step from the left wing before curling a fine right foot shot that beats the keeper but canons off the inside of the far post.

After their slow start Skelmersdale start to build attacks and the tricky Leadbetter creates some space on the edge of the West box but his shot is deflected for a corner; when this is taken keeper Nixon gathers well. West respond when Moffat’s cunning back-heel gives Briggs a chance that he shoots wide.

Skelmersdale centre forward Hughes looks quick and is playing right on, or usually just over, the offside line; he does get away once and outstrips both the West defence and Nixon rushing from his line, but is driven sufficiently wide for Hall to get back and stretch out a long leg to block his shot on goal. West get their chance when Campbell is clattered by McIntosh; the resulting free kick is aimed at the giant Hall but is just glanced over his head for a corner. This too is aimed at Hall who wins the leap but heads just wide.

There appears less danger when Campbell receives a bouncing ball 25 yards out with his back to goal; however he calmly hooks the ball over the keeper and into the goal. Hibbert, stranded off his line, looks forlorn having let in two goals and had a post rattled inside twenty minutes and otherwise has barely touched the ball.

His team up the effort and put on pressure but balls into the box are all being won by West defenders or caught by Nixon. A free kick, softly won, is wantonly hit dead. On the break Carr is also profligate, unable to repeat his opening goal, this time scuffing a shot wide. He then wins a corner with a blocked shot; leading to two more as Skem struggle to cope with their taller opponents; from the third Moffat heads in but the effort is disallowed for a push.

Skem press hard for something to take in at half time but once more it is the West defenders that are winning the crosses, whether they come in high or low.

At half time West are deservedly in front; there is no indication of any gap in class. They are pressing well all over the pitch, are first to the ball in their own box, and have class up front with Moffat’s tricks and flicks coming off and Campbell’s finishing looking predatory. Also Hall looks like scoring at every corner. Skelmersdale rarely threaten other than with a through ball to Hughes who continues to be offside more often than not. But at two up West must not get complacent - in this round last year West were two down to Harrogate Town and looking second best, yet scored twice in the last ten minutes to earn a replay.

The second half starts in similar fashion to the first with Carr beating the offside trap and racing in on Hibbert who spreads himself and saves with an elbow. Skem breathe a sigh of relief and build up some pressure leading to a high ball that Nixon catches before being bundled into, spilling it into the net. Referee rules a foul, but the pressure continues.

This is relieved with a long clearance out to the right wing where Campbell, on the half way line, lifts it over the full backs head, leaving him fruitlessly claiming a high foot, and races towards goal. He is pursued by two or three defenders, but they cannot catch him, and as Hibbert comes out to narrow the angle Campbell slots the ball past him and into the net. It’s a fine goal, even better than his opportunistic first, and a body blow to Skem just six minutes into the half.

Credit to Skem, they keep plugging away: Leadbetter wins a free kick but hits it straight into the wall; Hughes beats the offside trap but Nixon gathers the through ball before he can get to it; and then their best chance occurs when Hughes again breaks free. This time he gets to the ball ahead of Nixon who does get manage to something in the way, but only to deflect it towards Leadbetter. His sidefoot towards the open goal may or may not have been going in, but Nixon and Hall heroically throw themselves back across goal and block the attempt.

This spell is definitely Skem’s best and Hughes is again put clean through only to be foiled as Nixon stands up and blocks.

But with only 15 minutes left time is not on their side, and West remain potentially lethal on the break. Briggs sets up Carr for a shot that hits the far post and bounces along the goal line before centre half McIntosh heads behind for a corner. This comes over from the left and is flapped at by Hibbert, landing at Moffat’s feet. He drills it low and hard back through the crowded six yard box, untouched into the centre of the goal. So that is now 4-0 and game over.

A shot straight from the kick-off is a measure of Skem’s frustration; it sails wide. They get a better chance when a corner bobbles around before a short range shot is smashed into Nixon’s chest and cleared.

With a minute to go Moffat is replaced by new signing Wright, and when a free kick opportunity arises on the edge of the box, Carr lines it up but sportingly lets Wright have a crack. His effort is low and hard enough to squeeze under Hibbert’s dive for the icing on West Auckland’s cake.

At the final whistle Skelmersdale drift off disconsolately in ones and twos while the whole West Auckland squad congregate and congratulate each other in the centre circle before leaving to an ovation from the home fans. Five nil plus two against the woodwork is impressive and they will look forward to the next round more than whoever is drawn against them.

FA Vase Second Qualifying Round 21 September 2013

MARSKE UNITED V KNARESBOROUGH TOWN

Today we are at Mount Pleasant (currently labelled the GER Stadium) for a look at Marske United who are flying, unbeaten in the Northern League division 1 and already through 4 rounds of the Cup and Vase. Marske is a pretty little town on the East Cleveland coast and the family friendly ground echoes it; on entering there is a mown grassy bank, flowerbeds and refreshment trailer, with a goal net off to one side for lads and dads to kick into. Good value too at £2.50 entry (concession) and a meaty programme for a pound.

It’ a lovely day at the seaside, blue sky behind high clouds, warm with a pleasant breeze blowing down the flat, well grassed pitch. There are just three rows of covered seats and a couple of covered standing areas; with no spectator area more than 10 yards from the pitch it will be up close and personal with the players.

The visitors, in red shirts and black shorts, are Knaresborough Town from the second level of the Northern Counties East League, one step below their hosts whose strip consists of yellow shirts and blue shorts.

After an initial flurry from Knaresborough it is Marske that have the majority of possession and they pose the first goal threat when Butterworth sets MacDonald away down the right; his high and deep cross is headed by centre half Wheatley, on an excursion up front, but straight at keeper Dight.

Knaresborough’s threat is on the break with centre forward Heath camped on the shoulder of the last defender. After two offside decisions it pays off when a 1-2 with Whitehead puts him clear on goal, only for a back-rushing defender to make a desperate lunge from behind to clatter Heath but get a toe to the ball and concede a corner. A good outcome for Marske as it could quite easily been a penalty and down to 10 men. Predictably the visiting fans reckon the ref bottled it and from then on is labelled a “homer”.

Marske’s next attempt comes from right back Crossen who cuts in and thumps a left footer just over the bar; his opposite number Thomas goes one better with a Knaresborough free kick from 35 yards that whistles straight and hard and just a tad high, even so keeper Dean plays safe and tips it over for a corner.

As the half progresses Marske centre forward Alexander gets more into the action. First a Crossen interception gives him a chance from the edge of the box and though his shot is low and hard, Dight goes full stretch to push it past the post. Then he combines again with Crossen only to see the latter’s shot blocked. Finally as the half expires he is at the right place at the right time as the ball is cut back for MacDonald to fire a first time shot into the crowded penalty area; Alexander coolly diverts the ball with a side foot volley into the net from 6 yards.

Knaresborough are disappointed not to have held on until half time but are immediately back under pressure. Stansfield ploughs through the back of Alexander to concede a free kick and finally earn a booking; then Dight has to fist clear a corner from underneath his bar and recover to dive and gather the following cross at the foot of the near post.

A half time lead slightly flatters Marske who have made hard work of it, or have been made to work hard, depending on your point of view. As the half wore on their midfield pair of Gott and Butterworth took increased control, particularly as their colleague Johnston has occupied Knaresborough’s assistant manager and midfield general, Stansfield, in a physical battle that both clearly relish. Knaresborough’s chief threat is from balls over or behind the Marske back four with Heath and Wright both looking dangerous and both feeling aggrieved with some of the methods, unchecked by the referee, used to stop them.

Both teams are out and lined up early and stand bemused as the referee and assistants fail to appear for 2 or 3 minutes. When the second half does get underway it is Knaresborough that have early efforts. Heath wins the ball, turns ad shoots wide from well out then one of left back Radcliffe’s long throws is punched off the line by Dean. From the resulting corner centre half Lenehan gets a header in but Dean is able to gather it at the foot of the post.

This one goal lead is looking fragile for Marske, but the substitution of the influential Stansfield gives some relief. When Butterworth is fouled 20 yards out on the right, it is left back O’Sullivan who comes over to take the free kick. His left footer is up and over the wall and into the net before Dight can get anywhere near it.

More substitutions are made and Marske look a bit more comfortable at 2-0. Alexander wins the ball in the corner and drives along the bye line, but his shot is saved. From the cleared corner Butterworth shoots, but again Dight saves. From a soft free kick Johnston, no longer tied up with Stansfield, puts a header just over.

But Knaresborough are not rolling over just yet, some pressure leads to the Marske defence creating uncharacteristic havoc in their own goalmouth that eventually requires the ball to be cleared off the line. Then battling work by right back Thomas, epitomising his own faultless performance, provides a shooting opportunity for Whitehead, who hits it wide.

Marske respond as Johnston puts Butterworth through on goal; his shot is knocked back to him by Dight but the midfielder can only put the rebound over the bar. Back up the other end a couple of set plays threaten; but Dean finally catches one of Radcliffe’s long throws, and then a free kick bobbles about in the Marske box before a skied shot ends the danger.

The hard fought match ends 2-0, and though Knaresborough go off still grumbling about the early penalty shout they will probably concede the home team just edged the play and scored a couple of good goals. Marske continue their unbeaten season and can look forward to featuring further in A Good Cup Run.

FA Cup First Qualifying Round 14 September 2013

SPENNYMOOR TOWN v LANCASTER CITY

We are at Brewery Field, where last season A Good Cup Run reported five wins in the FA Vase on the way to the Wembley triumph. But today it is a different prospect in the FA Cup and the Brewers are up against Lancaster City from the NPL Division 1. Spennymoor are aiming for promotion to that league, so this is a good test; particularly as Lancaster have started the season unbeaten in their seven games.

It’s a fine September day with high cloud and no wind; the grass is green and the crowd is tidy, with lots of kids sporting their replica shirts from last May. There is a vocal presence from Lancashire as well and a couple of banners heralding the “Dolly Blues” - a strange nickname behind which must lie a tale, but of which the programme offers no clue.

The pitch still has the familiar slope and the teams still come out to Dire Straits, but Spennymoor have a new strip with a thick black crusader-like cross on their white shirts. Lancaster City look very stylish in yellow shirts and blue shorts each trimmed with the opposite colour. They have won the toss and elect to play uphill in the first half.

After a delayed kick off  - after years of inspecting nets before kick off a linesman has actually found a problem, quickly solved with gaffer tape – there is ten minutes of scrappy play as the teams battle for possession. Then Spennymoor gain a bit of control with Peacock finding space on the left, leading to a free kick that Graydon screws wide.

Lancaster respond and win a corner on the left. Spennymoor are slow to get organised and mainly stand and stare as the ball comes over and is diverted firmly into the net by the head of Lancaster centre half Steel.

The home team shrug off the goal and press forward again. Ruddy is effective on the right wing and on 30 minutes wins a free kick on the edge of the box. Graydon’s effort deflects off the wall for a corner. From this Ruddy again gets on the ball and beats his man to cross dangerously to the far post, but the header there is too weak. As half time approaches Spennymoor fade slightly and Lancaster get in a few attacks without threatening the goal.

At half time the only thing separating the teams is a sloppy preparation for a corner. Spennymoor’s two up front are big and strong, but Lancaster’s two at the back are bigger and stronger, and proving more than capable of holding their own. The injured “Titch” Cogden would have given them a different problem, as has the diminutive Ruddy out wide. Lancaster are not showing much up front but, having snatched the lead, don’t have to.

Despite plating uphill Spennymoor dominate the opening exchanges of the second half; Graydon finds Peacock in the box but his on-target shot is well saved by Lancaster keeper Hale. Hale is also proving good on crosses and corners so Spennymoor need new ideas. Manager Ainsley replaces Peacock and Ruddy, who have both played well, with Phillips and Walton who at least have fresh legs.

When Spennymoor centre forward Henderson chases a lost cause and wins the ball, it’s Phillips who’s on hand to drive into the box from the left; his shot from a narrow angle is blocked by the steady Hale. A further change up front brings on Taylor for Davison, but the only immediate result is a hopeful, and unsuccessful, claim for a penalty as a shot hits a Lancaster body in the box.

Lancaster’s excursions down to the Spennymoor end are becoming rare, but one such visit gains them a corner and gives the defence some discomfort before the loose ball is eventually headed harmlessly wide. The visitors are concentrating on holding what they have and winding the clock down at every opportunity.

Entering the last quarter of an hour Spennymoor put a slick move together with Taylor, Henderson and Walton combining well to bring another save out of Hale. From the corner a Henderson header lands on top of the bar and bounces over.

Spennymoor pressure grows, another handball claim for a penalty is dismissed, but Lancaster finally seem a bit rattled. The central midfield duo of Mahoney and Jackson both get shirty with the referee and are booked within minutes. Mahoney recovers his composure to take a free kick on the edge of the Spennymoor box but sends it just over the bar.

Four added minutes are announced, disappointing given the timewasting tactics of the visitors, and about three of these are spent in close proximity to a corner flag. Finally Spennymoor get the ball upfield where full back White thumps a thirty yarder straight at the keeper. Moments later Henderson goes down under a challenge to win a soft free kick, a last chance? It’s hoiked into the box but all that results is a corner – another last chance? The corner is headed out then fired back in, striking a defender and eliciting a third penalty shout from players and fans behind the goal. The referee’s whistle blows – but it is for the end of the game.

Lancaster City have held out and progress, not very convincingly, into the next round. It is the end of Spennymoor’s FA Cup run, but they have had the better of the play and have shown themselves good enough for the NPL should they get promotion. And there is still the Vase to come.

FA Vase First Qualifying Round 10 September 2013

JARROW ROOFING V THORNABY

Having missed the Saturday games due to a weekend in Scarborough with the other love of my life I thought the FA Vase cup run had fallen at the first hurdle. However due to the after-effects of the Friday downpour the game at the Boldon Community Association Sports Ground was postponed to tonight.

It means a 40 minute drive up the A19 and eschewing the live TV coverage of England’s world cup qualifier in the Ukraine; but life is all about choices and this one is not too difficult – I suspect there will be more action in Boldon than Kiev. It is £6 to get in (I’m considered a whippersnapper in these parts so no concession) and £1.50 for a programme, “The Roofer”, which turns out to be bright, glossy and informative.

Spectators are sparse around the ground, which has some unusual features that testify to its DIY construction by the founder, chairman, treasurer and co-manager Ritchie McLoughlin. All along one touchline there is cover, more a veranda than a stand, with a single row of bench seats and room to stand behind. Opposite is a small grandstand with tiered seating, badly weathered and with puddles still on the seats (although the roof, appropriately, seems sound enough).

No cover needed tonight though as it is clear but cool with a fresh autumnal breeze blowing as Jarrow in blue with yellow trim face up to Thornaby in all red. Both teams play in the second division of the Northern League so it should be an even match up.

From the start Thornaby look the more comfortable in possession, but after seven minutes it’s Roofing’s centre forward Appleby who creates the first danger. He gets forward and crosses from the left; teammate Gardiner and Thornaby keeper Duff coincide at the near post, but both fail to connect and the ball runs on to Marshall who taps into the unguarded net from close range.

Thornaby continue to push forward and Johnson, latching on to a good long ball, angles in on goal but can’t find a way past Roofing keeper Regan who blocks well. A couple of minutes later Regan takes a free kick on the edge of his box that carries to the other penalty area; Thornaby centre half Bishop goes to meet it but inexplicably allows the ball to squirm under his foot. Appleby accepts the gift by taking the ball round the keeper and slotting home.

Thornaby are playing well despite being 2-0 down. Murphy and Pearson are slick in midfield; Edwards and O’Mahoney look skilful out wide with pace, control and, in O’Mahoney’s case, an eye-catching step-over. It is he who creates space on the right for a cross which he stands up to the far post only for centre forward Melvin to blaze over.

Roofing are more prosaic in their play; once again it is a big kick from Regan that creates danger when it is allowed to bounce in the Thornaby box. The shot on target is saved for a corner; and when that comes over it leads to a volley that skims the bar.

It’s end to end stuff now. Roofing’s keeper and centre half get in a tangle on the edge of the box, but before Melvin can capitalise keeper Regan blocks with his feet. Straight down the other end another long ball bypasses the centre of the Thornaby defence requiring Duff to save again. When it’s Thornaby’s turn to attack, neat play down the left gets full back Morrison to the bye line and his pull back finds Melvin, who controls the ball before hitting it sweetly into the net.

The 2-1 scoreline stays that way to half time despite goalmouth action at both ends. Thornaby’s passing and movement deserve better than to be behind, but their defensive errors got their just desserts. Roofing are more muscular and direct; not just hitting long balls (though they have proved effective) but getting crosses over at the earliest opportunity.

The first ten minutes of the second half are spent entirely in the Roofing half as Thornaby put everything into getting an equaliser. Roofing weather the storm; with Kirkup and Leighton, in the centre of the defence, solid and quick to snuff out chances.

Gradually Roofing regain a share of possession and territory, and the game evens out. A flurry of substitutions mid-way through the half seems to favour them and left wing McDonald in particular becomes prominent in a couple of breaks, with shots across and over the goal.

As the game enters its last ten minutes Thornaby try to mount a last push. The best chance comes from a disputed throw-in which enables Johnson to take the defence unawares; but his attempt to knock the ball past the advancing keeper is weak. A final Thornaby substitution leaves just three at the back, and desperate efforts up front. Pearson is too desperate with a lunging tackle which leaves Gardiner writhing and the Roofing bench agitated. Yellow card about right; but Roofing’s Appleby thinks it deserves a bit more and takes Pearson down from behind, earning his own caution.

It remains tense and tasty into added time, when a clearance rebounds to Appleby, who is in the clear, though apparently not offside. He repeats his first half trick of dancing round the keeper to score easily and finish off the tie.

At the final whistle Thornaby continue to complain about the third goal – was it not off side, shouldn’t the scorer have been sent off for the cynical foul moments before – but the fact of the matter is that it was their inability to score a second goal that really settled the tie.

So Jarrow Roofing go on to the next round to meet Willington, while I get into the car to catch the last minutes of the England game on the radio. By all account it has been a poor game with few shots and no goals. In contrast the FA Vase has dished up a competitive game with some good football and plenty of goalmouth action; good choice!

FA Cup Preliminary Qualifying Round 31 August 2013

BILLINGHAM SYNTHONIA v BRIGHOUSE TOWN

The FA cup weather is back on form with the day at Central Avenue fine and sunny, but with a fresh breeze blowing the length of the cavernous but exposed cantilever stand. The rest of the ground is an open oval with the lush green pitch surrounded by the red shale track and grassy banking rising up to trees and bushes.

The scene is well set for what should be a competitive game; Northern League v Northern Counties East League is an even match up so it’s all to play for. Synthonia are in their distinctive green and white quarters and Brighouse wear road-mender orange shirts and black shorts.

The early play is dominated by Brighouse with both Matthew and Boafo looking skilful and quick as they are fed balls down the channels. Synthonia keeper Briggs is soon in action, pushing a free kick from Naidole past the post then, as the resulting a corner produces a goal mouth scramble, falling on the ball as it threatens to roll over the line.

Minutes later Naidole gets a second go from the same spot but this time Briggs gets two fists to the shot to punch well clear. However it continues to be largely one-way traffic. Matthew glides in from the left and slips a pass through to Boafo 10 yards from goal. Briggs is out at his feet and gets something in the way, but the ball continues to loop goalwards. A defender stretches out a despairing boot and manages to slice the ball narrowly over the bar.

Having survived the first quarter, Synthonia start to string a few passes together. A corner is achieved; then after half an hour a good move down the left sees Porritt backheel to Osmond, who crosses for Fowler to dive full length but head wide.

Brighouse respond and create a couple of chances without forcing Briggs into further heroics. At the other end Brighouse keeper Giles makes his first save as a Porritt cross is headed straight at him by Magowan. His next foray into the action is less distinguished as his shout of “keepers” proves over-optimistic as he gets nowhere near the long diagonal cross. The ball bounces around in the box but no Synthonia player can take advantage and the danger passes.

The half time verdict is 0-0 but plenty of action. Brighouse’s early supremacy has faded as the Synthonia defence came to terms with the mobile Brighouse forwards. Synthonia’s best route seems to be via Porritt down the left with crosses for Magowan and Jameson to attack. Brighouse look most dangerous when their eye-catching captain, left back Henry, pushes forward with pace and power. They still look the most likely to break the deadlock.

Brighouse reinforce this belief as they make an attacking start to the second half. Boafo, Naidole, and Matthew all have early shots; one blocked by a defender and two saved by Briggs. Then, ten minutes into the half, Brighouse midfielder Mitchell’s shot is blocked and ricochets around before falling to Matthew. He controls the ball, manoeuvres it around the diving Briggs, and rolls it into the goal for a deserved lead.

This prompts Synthonia make a change, bringing on Wilson for Fowler; and Brighouse follow suite with Ryan for Gibson. Synthonia seem to gain most from the changes and start to build pressure. A good move puts Magowan through but his low hard shot is very well saved by Giles. Porritt turns his full back inside-out but then can’t find a colleague in the box. He’s then fed a great ball through the middle, but before he can control the high bouncing ball he is bundled over by a Brighouse defender. “Penalty” shout the home crowd, but the ref rules legitimate challenge to a chorus of boos.

The Synthonia necessary focus on attack leaves them open to the counter and Brighouse’s Henry surges forward, finds Ryan who then switches it to Matthew, who’s clear in the box but shoots wide with only the keeper to beat. A closer effort comes in from Boafo, 30 yards out, which skims the bar.

Synthonia keep attacking regardless; they are winning all the headers in the box, from crosses and corners, but can’t get them on target. With five minutes to go Brighouse break clear, and with four against three work a man in against the keeper. Briggs saves once then again from the rebound to confirm his Synthonia man of the match performance.

His teammates look spent and struggle to get the ball off Brighouse; when they do, they lose it immediately and then commit a foul to get it back. A slick free kick move from Brighouse gets the ball in the net but the linesman’s flag keeps the home fans faint hopes alive. Briggs does the same when he again rushes out to smother a shot.

Into time added on and a long hopeful Synthonia punt up-field from Burton mysteriously finds Magowan free in the box. The ball bounces up off the springy turf but this time he gets a toe end to it before keeper Giles can intervene, and the ball rolls into the goal for a late, late, and barely deserved equaliser.

Brighouse can’t believe it, and the home fans look a bit sheepish as they troop out, but Tuesday is another day and the replay is another game that gives both a chance to continue their cup run, with a home tie the reward.

FA Cup Extra Preliminary Qualifying Round 17 August 2013

DARLINGTON RAILWAY ATHLETIC v NEWTON AYCLIFFE

For the third consecutive season the FA cup run starts with Newton Aycliffe, but not at Moore Lane Park this year. Instead we are at Brinkburn Road, home of Darlington Railway Athletic. It could be third time lucky for Aycliffe after crashing out at this earliest of rounds in their first two campaigns. Although they are playing away they are in the Northern League Division 1, and top after two wins from two games; RA are in Division two, and bottom having lost their two opening games.

The clubs are near neighbours; I come via Newton Aycliffe and it takes only 12 minutes from there to get to Brinkburn Road; parking is easy and entry only £2 for an ‘owd geezer’ (£4 for normal folk). Arriving early enables the £1 programme and posted team sheet to be perused at leisure while taking in the surroundings in this, my first, visit.

The ground is open with small covered areas behind each end, one seated and one not. The cricket pitch is adjacent with a game in desultory progress – the day is cool, cloudy and threatening intermittent blustery showers, for once the extra preliminary round day is more suited to football than cricket. The programme is basic and from its content and layout it is clear the club relies heavily on a few dedicated but overstretched individuals.

On the pitch the teams are out and going through the obligatory line up and handshakes in front of an attendance (falling well short of a crowd) of about 100. RA are in all red and Aycliffe in all blue.

The first twenty minutes are fairly scrappy with both teams coming to terms with the grassy but bumpy pitch and the blustery wind, favouring RA in this half. Eventually Aycliffe gain territorial advantage and are able to get a couple of warning shots in. Midfielder Selby’s effort is deflected onto the bar and then Owens weaves his way into the box before smacking a left footer against the outside of the near post.

RA continue to live dangerously and ten minutes before the break Muir handles on the edge of his penalty area. With the free kick in the middle of the D, the RA keeper Calvert tries to line up a wall, but ineffectively as Owens’ side-foot bypasses it into the corner of the net.

Aycliffe look more comfortable having broken through and continue to press. Just ahead of half time, their centre forward Earl is sharpest to a bouncing ball in the RA box and cleverly lifts it over Calvert, off his line, into the goal to establish 2-0 lead at halftime.

Newton Aycliffe’s Division 1 quality has started to tell, with twin strikers Owens and Earl able to hold the ball up and bring in teammates to build attacks. RA are pinning their hopes on longer balls – into the channels for the willing Allison and England to chase down, and well placed diagonal crosses from attacking full backs Ramsbottom and Farrington. That may work better into wind after the break.

Two minutes into the second period RA keeper Calvert clears a through ball from the edge of his box. His Aycliffe counterpart, Molyneaux, meets it well outside his own box and returns it with interest (and the wind). One bounce and the ball is up and over the despairing, rather flat-footed grasp of Calvert who turns to see it roll into the empty net. It’s a body blow to go 0-3 down so soon after the half time pep talk and RA visibly wilt. Ten minutes later its 0-4 as Salvin scores with a glancing header from a right wing cross after RA fail to clear a corner.

Aycliffe reckon its game over and bring on three substitutes at once; RA also make a couple of changes, including the feisty Abel, whose immediate scuffle with an opponent could have led to a short-lived cameo with a less tolerant referee.

The changes make little difference. Aycliffe’s next goal is well worked with Owens doing an impression of a nippy left winger, skipping past a couple of uncommitted defenders, before crossing from the by-line for substitute Mellanby to tap in.

With 15 minutes still to go it could get worse but a long back pass from Aycliffe’s Selby turns out to be the best through ball of the day, enabling centre forward Allison to close in on goal and fire in a fine shot from the edge of the box. The goal gives RA some heart and as the rain begins to fall in earnest the spectators gravitate to the covered seating, giving them the best view of the closing action as RA finish with a flurry of corners. Only a finger-tip save from Molyneaux keeps them out, crowning a memorable day for the unlikely goalscorer.

Newton Aycliffe will have a tougher game in the next round but will be pleased to have their first ever FA Cup win, a handsome 5-1. Darlington Railway Athletic will count the gate money and continue trying to build up the club.