Northern Rock North East premier league

Jun 14 2008 by Paul Cunningham, The Journal

THE contrasting fortunes of life in the Northern Rock North East Premier League could not be more starkly illustrated than by the two clubs separated by just a couple of miles in distance, but by an immeasurably bigger margin in performance.

For South Northumberland, things just seem to go on getting better, yet for Newcastle they probably could not be any worse. Last week South North turned in another two outstanding displays, thrashing Stockton in the league match, and then defeating arch rivals Sunderland in a thrilling run-chase in the Cockspur.

Skipper John Graham said of the win over Stockton: “It was one of those rare games where every good ball seemed to take a wicket. Stockton have a good top order so it was pleasing to get through them cheaply.” He was also thrilled with his side’s cup success. “Chris Hewison (160no) played probably one of the finest innings you would be likely to see in club cricket,” said Graham. “He timed his knock to perfection and although we still needed 80 off the last 10 overs, we got them with a bit to spare. His combination of timing and hard hitting was a joy to watch.”

South North miss Richard Brook for the trip to Tynemouth today, 16-year-old John Harbottle taking his place. The home side missed their chance to challenge for the leadership, going down to Chester-le-Street last week, but that defeat will fade into the memory if they can upset the leaders, and they have Daniel Young back in the team. Newcastle prepare to meet Norton at Jesmond today fully aware that they are fast approaching the stage where a win is more or less imperative for them if they are to protect their NEPL status, after losing every game so far.

James Davidson and Matt Bashford come into the side in place of James Carr and Nick Tomlinson, with the visitors drafting in Anthony Fawcett to replace Dave Kennedy.

Benwell Hill travel to Blaydon with an unchanged side from the one which salvaged a draw from the game with the Durham Academy. The home team, too, have a settled line-up.

Second-placedSouth Shields entertain Gateshead Fell with the only change expected to be Michael Fishwick coming in for Chris Watson. For the Fell, James Perchard replaces the unavailable Michael Cairns. Chester-le-Street go to Maiden Castle to take on Durham Academy and once again the Cestrians are at full strength, which is just as well because the Durham Academy are similarly well off, and when they have been able to turn out their full complement so far this season, they have always proved a handful.

Following their torrid start to the season, Sunderland are now in full cry and have surged up the table – a win at Stockton this weekend will see them nudging the top two and on current form they must be heavy favourites, as the Teessiders’ early promise has waned somewhat. The Wearsiders name an unchanged team.