Newton Aycliffe earned three vital points at home to 8th place Durham City on Saturday. Aycliffe have had a worrying recent run of form in the league. However Tuesday night’s win in the League Cup quarter final against Washington provided a boost to the team’s confidence.
The win against Durham came courtesy of two goals from Dennis Knight. The first was scored on 37 minutes. A weak defensive header fell to Stuart Banks who found Knight on the left. The Aycliffe forward shot across goal finding the bottom corner of the net.
Knight’s second goal came after 57 minutes when he found himself played through with only the keeper to beat. The confident shot was fired home without difficulty guaranteeing Knight the man of the match award from sponsors Hewitts solicitors.
Durham might have found a way back into the game a couple of minutes later when a strong penalty appeal was denied by the referee.
With the clock ticking down Aycliffe provided their fans with some anxious moments. Three minutes from time central defender Craig Garthwaite miscued, slicing the ball over his own keeper and into the net. Fortunately that proved to be the last significant action and Aycliffe managed to hang on to take all three points.
Two away games this week, against Bedlington and Dunston, will be a stern test for Aycliffe but six points would go a long way to ease those relegation worries.
Beyond those games Aycliffe have been drawn away to Ashington in the semi final of the League Cup. The game against ex England cricketer Steve Harmison’s side will take place on Tuesday 31 March @ 7:45. As ever the team would appreciate as much support as possible.
Forthcoming Fixtures
Wednesday 11th March (away) Bedlington Terriers 7:30pm
Saturday 14th March (away) Dunston 3:00pm
Tuesday 17th March (home) Consett 7:30pm
