Just the ticket for luckless Morpeth
Dec 27 2010 The Journal
MORPETH Town have endured a torrid time in the last two seasons, both on and off the field, but are hoping for better when they line up against Horden CW in the STL Northern League Second Division at Craik Park today.
The Northumbrians were forced to ground share with Bedlington Terriers last season and were relegated in May.
They have again found life in Division Two just as difficult and go into today’s game bottom of the table and the only side yet to win.
But in an attempt to attract a good crowd they are offering Newcastle United season ticket holders free admission.
“Most sides are kicking off at 11am but we’ve opted for a 3pm start and hopefully the incentive will bring in a few more supporters,” said official Lawrence Appleby.
“If they like what they see they may return when Newcastle don’t have a Saturday afternoon fixture.”
Although Horden CW are only four places above Morpeth, they were showing improvement before the weather intervened.
Brian Honour, who played in more than 300 games for Hartlepool Utd, is manager of his local club.
He said “We’ve got a good bunch of enthusiastic kids who are learning all the time. I thought we were getting better game by game and I’m hoping that we can start where we finished.”
North Shields are involved in a top six clash with Team Northumbria as the pair attempt to put pressure on the three sides currently occupying the promotion places.
A close result is anticipated at the Daren Persson Stadium but Whickham, in third place, start favourites at home to second bottom Brandon Utd.
There is a local derby at Birtley Town where the rejuvenated home side take on Chester-le-Street.
Following a disappointing season last time, Birtley have already won two more games than they did throughout the entire campaign.
They have brothers Michael and Richie Lattimer and Dan Regan suspended but Hughie Stephenson returns.
“It will be like having a new player in the squad. Hughie has been out for three months and I’m delighted to have him back,” enthused manager Scott Oliver.
Washington go to Hebburn Town minus Will Caris and Jamie Dawson while Seaham Red Star manager Kevin Turns will need to check on the fitness of Neil Gough before announcing his line-up at Thornaby.
The Division One fixture between Ashington and neighbours Bedlington Terriers always attracts a good crowd and weather permitting, today will be no exception.
Gary Middleton has fitness concerns for defenders Paul Dunn and James Harrison while Terriers boss Tony Lowery expects Richard Flynn and Ben Christensen to be available.
Newcastle Benfield, in fourth position, eight points adrift of leaders Consett with three games in hand, have home advantage over Tow Law Town.
Manager Paul Baker is pleased to have leading scorer John Campbell available following his recent trial with Swindon Town.
West Allotment Celtic go to Whitley Bay without Chris Jewels who could be sidelined for six weeks.
