Newton Aycliffe continued their pre-season preparations with two games last week. A hastily arranged friendly against Ryhope Colliery Welfare was played at Dawdon last Wednesday. A goal from Ben Dibb-Fuller gave Aycliffe a 1-1 draw against their fellow Division One opponents. Saturday saw a trip to Division Two side Easington Colliery. Adam Burnicle scored an early goal but the home side equalised after 20 mins when Adam Pickford was caught out by the strong blustery wind. The second half saw Aycliffe get into their stride & goals from Andrei Ardelean, Ben Dibb-Fuller & Liam Jarvie gave the visitors a comfortable 4-1 win.
The game at Easington was the first to be played in front of spectators. Pre-season games have so far been played behind closed doors. However, last week the govt & FA issued new guidance which allows games to be played in front of a limited number of spectators. Initially this is limited to 150, rising to 300 from 31 August. Newton Aycliffe had already arranged a friendly against National League North side Spennymoor Town for 25th August. It had been expected that this game would not have fans present. However, the new ruling meant that spectators would be allowed. The Club made great efforts to make sure the Beaumont Landscapes Stadium complied with the new regulations. As spectator numbers were limited fans were asked to book their tickets in advance as well as providing contact details for Track & Trace.
FA Competitions
The FA has made the draws for the initial rounds of the Emirates FA Cup and The Buildbase FA Vase. Newton Aycliffe have been drawn away to Guisborough Town in the FA Cup Extra Preliminary Round in a repeat of the 2018/2019 draw. The game is due to be played on 1 September. The winners of that tie will host Tadcaster Albion in the Preliminary Round.
In the FA Vase, Aycliffe have been drawn at home to Barnoldswick Town in a game that is scheduled for 19 September.
Ebac Northern League
Following the govt announcement on spectators at games the Ebac Northern League confirmed that the season will start on 5 September. Aycliffe open against Hebburn Town & have 5 of their first 6 games at home.
It’s been a long time coming but it finally looks as though competitive football is coming back. We hope to see you all soon at the Beaumont Landscapes Stadium in Moore Lane.
Photo: New signing Ben Reay in action at Easington Colliery
U11 Whites Friendly
Aycliffe were on the front foot from the start with some great link up play. Creating multiple chances which couldn’t be converted.
Jake got us ahead but an unlucky bounce in front of our keeper and we were 1-1.
A masterful tactical switch of positions in midfield by moving Oliver from the left to the right and Oliver immediately scores to make it 2-1 at half time.
Working hard in the second half when Linthorpe hit a belter to make it 2-2. Jake immediately replied with a half volley top corner strike to make it 3-2 and then constant pressure allowed Zack to make it 4-2 to Aycliffe final score.
Man of the match was Jake.
