Newton Aycliffe FC’s disappointing run of results continued on Saturday, as Bedlington Terriers secured a late win to all but guarantee their own First Division survival and condemn Team Northumbria to the drop.
But boss Allan Oliver will certainly be a happier man than seven days previously, as his team turned in a much improved performance. However he will once again be cursing his luck as illness and unavailability deprived him of a key defender, key midfielder and key striker.
The start from Aycliffe was high tempo and was rewarded when Stuart Owen fed a delightful ball through for Tom Atkinson. The front man checked onto his right foot and scored.
Spence, in the Aycliffe goal, was much more like himself after conceding a couple of disappointing goals last week and he made two excellent saves to deny Walton and Williamson as the game swung from end to end. But then, with half time approaching, Aycliffe were undone by a left wing corner, Walton being gifted a free header from which to score.
A back injury forced Mark Wood off at half time, with Lewis Green coming on to replace him and Paul Broom slotting in at right back. Then on 70 minutes, Oliver made a double change as he looked for the winner. Jamie Owens and Stephen Butterworth replaced Stuart Owen and Kerry Hedley, as the boss switched to a 4-3-3 formation.
Unfortunately, however, the next goal went against Aycliffe. John Close, who has been so dependable this season, was robbed of possession on the edge of the box and Walton had a gift of a chance he wasn’t going to miss.
Newton Aycliffe: Spence, M. Wood, Clough, Oliver, Close, Owen, Broom, Young, Atkinson, Mellanby, Hedley. Substitutes: Owens, Butterworth, Raitt, Green, Farley.
Off the pitch Aycliffe have announced the line-up of bands to appear at their Party in the Park event, to be held in partnership with Newton Aycliffe Sports Club on Sunday 4th May. The all-day event is scheduled to start at 12pm, with 10 live bands lined up to entertain the crowd, concluding with the highly sought after Howasis. Tickets priced at just £10 are available behind the bar in the Sports Club, and are selling well, with the all ticket event expected to sell out. For more details please contact Shaun Saunders on  kps5656@gmail.com