Wearside League
BCFC v Gateshead Leam Rangers Res FC
BARNARD Castle continued their impressive run of form with a 3-2 victory over Gateshead Leam Rangers Reserves last Saturday. They have only lost one match this season and remain in contention for promotion in a very competitive league.
Saturday was harder work than they may have anticipated heading in to the fixture. Dan Hull opened the scoring after just ten minutes but Barney were unable to add to their tally in the first half.
Gateshead drew it back level, and despite controlling the match, Barney had given away their advantage.
Jed Dominick has been an essential addition to the side following several departures at the end of last season, and he restored Barney’s lead five minutes later with a ball across the box that evaded everyone.
Rob Peart sealed a third for the home side with ten minutes remaining and despite Gateshead scoring in the dying seconds, Barney were able to hold on for another vital three points.
They travel to strugglers Wynyard Village next Saturday in a match where they will expect to leave with another victory.
Ebac Northern League
West Auckland Town v Birtley Town
WEST Auckland Town extended their run of draws to four, with a hard fought 1-1 at home to Birtley Town on Friday night.
It must be a frustrating continuation of results for Gary Forrest’s side, who remain fifth in Northern Football League Division One.
Ultimately on Friday, they have to come away happy with the point after trailing 1-0 due to a 68th minute Matthew Ward goal for the visitors.
Forrest’s side showed resilience and drew back level just seven minutes later after an impressive Anthony Bell equaliser from 25 yards.
They had their tails up, and must have believed a winner was possible, but it evaded them and the points were shared.
West still lie in a very strong position and still have every chance that they can go one step further than last season’s heartbreaking playoff defeat.
West Auckland are at home again next Saturday when they host Penrith.
Darlington Sunday Invitational League
Staindrop Wheatsheaf defeated Bishop Auckland Bay Horse Blues 2-1 on Sunday morning to move up to second placed in division one.
Goals from Daniel Hull and Callum Spence sealed the win for the side.
In the same division, Middleton Wanderers also secured a 2-1 over Darlington Grey Horse.
In division two, Evenwood grabbed an 85th minute winner through Liam Blighe despite ending the match with nine players after two players were sent off.
Sam Alexander
