Wearside League Round-Up

May 11 2009 The Journal

NEWTON Aycliffe will be crowned champions if they win their final game of the season against Annfield Plain on Saturday.

The leaders have a one-point advantage over New Marske, whose last game is at Teesside Athletic, who Aycliffe defeated 5-1 at the weekend.

James Kesterton gave the Teessiders an early lead but Warren Byrne has proved an astute signing for Aycliffe.

He had a hand in all five Aycliffe goals – when his shot rebounded from the woodwork, former Chester-le-Street striker Elliott Gardner pounced to level the scores.

Byrne then fired in a tremendous 40-yard shot before gaining a penalty when brought down by goalkeeper Stuart McDonald, who was sent off.

Mark Wood converted the spot kick and late in the game Byrne, who has played all season for Shildon, completed his hat-trick.

New Marske won 3-1 at Cleator Moor Celtic but can only hope to win their last match and for Aycliffe to slip up. Robert Jones (2) and Alex Henderson were their marksmen with Lee Dunn replying for the Cumbrians.

Jarrow, still with four fixtures to fulfill, could finish third. They romped to a 5-1 win over Willington as the goals flowed from Lee Buglass (2), Peter Kirkham, Andrew Barclay and Craig Armstrong. Adam Purvis claimed a consolation for the visitors.

Annfield Plain suffered a surprise 3-0 defeat at home to Wolviston, for whom Danny Earl, Glen Smith and the influential Michael Murphy found the net.

A draw was a fair result between Ryhope CW and Easington Colliery. Barry Turton fired the Colliers ahead before Richard Jordon equalised for the Wearsiders.

Guisborough Town HC could yet avoid the wooden-spoon after defeating Windscale courtesy of Stephen Combelack, Liam Bedford and David Campbell.

MALCOLM PRATT