Northern Alliance

Mar 29 2008 by Bill Gardner, The Journal

SHANKHOUSE have been surprisingly out-of-sorts in the Premier Division and have a last chance to save their season this weekend. But Gary Kirkup’s outfit face a daunting task as they visit league leaders Walker Central in a semi-final of the Longhorn Hardware League Cup.

In today’s other League Cup semi-final, Wallington from the First Division will be trying to upset the odds.

They are at Bullocksteads taking on Premier Division opponents Heddon and, having ended Ponteland United’s hopes in a previous round, taking another top-flight scalp isn’t out of the question.

With Walker Central and second-placed Heddon both otherwise engaged, Cumbrian neighbours Gillford Park and Harraby Catholic Club could both improve their standings in the title race.

Gillford Park’s unbeaten record on their travels is unlikely to be threatened by Alnwick Town who have just lost five league games on the trot. Last season’s champions Harraby have lacked some consistency but with striker Steve Archibald finding the net regularly they may just shade it against Seaton Delaval at Wheatridge Park.

Peterlee Town’s defeat by Gillford Park last Saturday dented their hopes of achieving a top two finish and today’s home game against an improving Carlisle City side will provide another challenge. Graeme Lupton has returned to City’s ranks.

After a brief taste of success Blyth Town have lost their last two league games but could get back on track at the expense of visitors Cramlington Town whose form has dipped. Meanwhile Northbank and Newcastle University are a long way from staving off possible relegation. Both are desperate for points with Northbank entertaining Heaton Stannington and the Students paying a visit to Ashington Colliers.