Wearside League

Oct 19 2009 The Journal

RYHOPE CW are only two points behind leaders Scarborough Town after hitting neighbours Silksworth with a heavy defeat.

Chris Linstedt, who managed Ryhope for six years before stepping down in the summer, recently took charge of Silksworth, but it was Martin Swales who celebrated.

The latter replaced Linstedt and has assembled a squad which looks good enough to challenge for the title.

John Butler (2), Richard Jordan, Shaun Petch and Paul Hartley swept the home side to their 10th win in 12 attempts. Jordan Crake claimed a consolation for Silksworth.

Jarrow moved into fourth place with a comfortable victory over Willington at Perth Green.

Chris Lunn opened the scoring with a fine solo effort and Jonathan Matthews and Lee Buglass also beat Willington goalkeeper Chris Sawyer.

Following a goalless first half, Ashbrooke Belford House and Easington Colliery were involved in a six-goal thriller.

Martin Deacon fired Ashbrooke in front, but the Colliers hit back and led 3-1 courtesy of Chris Tarn, Robert Huntley and Lee Davison.

With only five minutes left, Adam Young threw Ashbrooke a lifeline – and in the last minuteDeacon equalised.

Chris Robinson cancelled out Cleator Moor Celtic’s early goal from Craig Padley, but Boldon CA conceded the winner to Barry Irving in Cumbria.

Coxhoe Athletic claimed their first point in 10 games, holding Annfield Plain to a goalless draw.

Coxhoe have still managed just four goals all season, but are now within striking distance of Willington.

MALCOLM PRATT