Northern League newcomers Newton Aycliffe recorded their fifth win of the season when they defeated second placed Whitehaven Amateurs at Moor Lane on Saturday.

Played in miserable conditions, this was an entertaining game in which the visitors played their part, especially in the first half, and with better luck could have had a share of the points.  Unable to pick the same team that has done so well recently, manager Martin Harris nevertheless fielded a strong side in which Kevin Law and David Dustin made comeback appearances.

Things started so well with Whitehaven having plenty of possession in the constant rain, and Kevin Connelly bringing out an excellent one handed save from home 'keeper Richardson with an acrobatic overhead kick, then hitting the post from the rebound.

Newton Aycliffe responded with a Wood shot which cannoned off the crossbar, their only effort of note in the first half.

Despite seeing plenty of the ball the visitors didn't translate that into clear cut chances, but probably did enough to shade the first half.

The second, however, saw the hosts score early in the half when Paul Stout headed his side in front , arriving at the back post to make the most of his opportunity.  They then proceeded to test the visitors defence, where Brian Miller was simply outstanding, saving goal-bound efforts from Gardner, Broom and Lennon. 

Whitehaven still looked dangerous on the break despite Miller's heroics, but the final ball wasn't good enough to cause problems as the home defence stood firm. 

On 90 minutes Lennon was sent clear as Whitehaven pushed forward looking for an equaliser, and as he rounded Miller his goal-bound effort was directed into his own net by the unlucky Rob Fowler who had chased back to cover.

"The quality of football was good considering the conditions," said director Geoff Nicholson. "Credit to Newton Aycliffe, they had an excellent second half and got the goals, but it would have been interesting if Kev Connelly had found the net early in the game."

This Saturday sees Whitehaven entertain League leaders Sunderland RCA at the Focus Scaffolding Sports Complex in what should be the division's top match.  Last season's game was a cracker, and this promises to be just as exciting.  The kick off is 3pm as usual.

---

Bookmark with: what are these?