Re/Max Northern Alliance

Dec 29 2008 The Journal

FOR the first time in 12 years Seaton Delaval are top of the Premier Division – and are two points clear of Walker Central after their 3-2 win against Ponteland United at Wheatridge Park.

This was a fourth league victory on the trot for the new leaders. Terry Goicochea opened Delaval’s account and their lead was increased by an own goal. Liam McIvor replied for Ponteland only for Stephen Howes to restore the home side’s two-goal lead. In the second half Dean Gate scored a second for Pont.

Gillford Park slipped to third after their home game with Heddon was frozen out and defending champions Walker Central overtook the Cumbrians. Central, unbeaten in their last six Premier Division games, beat Newcastle University 2-0 at Monkchester.

After not playing for a month, Alnwick Town moved into fourth with a 2-0 home win against Shankhouse. They won with strikes by Richard Brown and Scott McMullen.

Harraby Catholic Club won 2-0 at Wark. Marc Shiel opened the scoring with his 65th minute penalty.

At Grounsell Park, Heaton Stannington drew 2-2 with visitors Carlisle City after throwing away a two-goal lead provided by Gary Yates and Chris Hutchinson. Carlisle rallied after the break and Jamie Heath got them off the mark. Their equaliser was by Chris Kelleher.

At the bottom only two points separate the bottom six. Murton lifted themselves off the bottom which is now occupied by Wark after Murton won 4-1 at home to Peterlee Town. Murton’s goals were by Andy Somerville (2), Karl Garside and Michael Walton. John Pyle replied for Peterlee who have now failed to win any of their last six league games.

Blyth Town hauled themselves closer to safety with a 3-1 win at home to Ashington Colliers. Aaron Hicken and Danny Beresford (2) scored for Blyth with the Ashington goal by Anthony Wright.