Newton Aycliffe FC’s fortunes took a turn for the better this week after a successful fundraising event was followed by their first-ever FA Vase victory!
Former England, Arsenal and Middlesbrough midfielder Ray Parlour starred at the club’s do last Friday night, when our MP Phil Wilson attended a “cracking night” at the Big Club. Then on Saturday, the Newtonians chalked up their very first win in the FA Vase, at the third time of asking, with a 1-0 win at Wearside League-leaders Willington.
Parlour, pictured with the club’s president Mr Wilson along with chairman Gary Farley (right), told several interesting and humorous stories about his career, with particularly funny references to Gunners boss Arsene Wenger and former team-mate Tony Adams.
The event, hosted by Sky Sports News reporter David Craig, raised a little over £2,000 for the Northern League club. “It was a tremendous success,” said general manager Dan Lewis, one of the organisers. “Everyone had a thoroughly enjoyable evening and went away with a smile on their face, which is ultimately the main thing. We’d like to thank everyone for coming along and supporting us, particularly those who bid so generously during the auction.”
Scouse comedian Gary Skyner was also a highlight of the evening, having the 150-plus audience in stitches. Aycliffe then held an auction, with a Lionel Messi-signed Barcelona shirt going for £300 and an old Wembley seat signed by Sir Geoff Hurst, donated by club sponsors Finley Structures, also selling for £300. Auction items donated by two famous Newtonians – Boro goalkeeper Jason Steele and Chelsea star Ross Turnbull – also helped to chip in to the total.
Mr Wilson added: “It was a cracking night and I absolutely enjoyed it – it’s great that the club could attract such a big name from the world of football, have a really good night and raise some much-needed money all in one go.”
Aycliffe followed up the success with the FA Vase win on Saturday, in a game marred by two harsh red cards. Allan Oliver’s side claimed a hard-working but much-needed win to book a first round home tie with second division side Esh Winning. But dismissals for star striker Dan Mellanby and young defender James Oliver dampened the celebrations. Mellanby was given his marching orders early on for foul and abusive language, while Oliver was sent off for kicking out late on, but new striker Danny Earl scored in the first-half to ensure Aycliffe progressed to the next round.
It’s Aycliffe’s first triumph in the FA Vase at the third time of asking after last season’s replay loss against Shildon, and their debut defeat at West Allotment two years ago.
They will play Esh Winning at Moore Lane Park on Saturday 13th October (3pm) in the next stage.
• Aycliffe could climb out of the bottom three with a win at Newcastle Benfield this weekend – the Tyneside trip is followed by back-to-back home games against Penrith and Billingham Town next week.
FIXTURES
Saturday 22nd Sept: Newcastle Benfield (A), 3pm
Wednesday 26th Sept: Penrith (H), 7.30pm
Saturday 29th Sept: Billingham Town (H), 3pm
Tuesday 2nd Oct: South Shields (A), 7.30pm
Saturday 6th Oct: Ashington (A), 3pm
