As is often the case at this time of the year, the Northern League fixture computer has suddenly presented Aycliffe with a tough, and possibly season-defining run of games.
Over the next 11 games, Allan Oliver’s men will be in action no fewer than four times.
But such is the way in the Northern League, and Oliver and his men will see the run of games as a chance to ensure their Division One safety.
First up tonight sees the Royal Blues make the trip to Dunston. The hosts were defeated in the quarter final of the FA Vase on Saturday, and their Manager was openly critical of his teams performance.
Aycliffe will be hoping for a similar performance tonight, coupled with their own performance level being similar to that which they turned in at Bishop Auckland last time out.
Following that they make another trip north on Saturday, as they visit Whitley Bay.
The seasiders have recently parted company with their Manager, and have struggled to hit the heights they have achieved in recent seasons. It is another game Aycliffe can look forward to bringing something home from.
Then next Wednesday sees the rearranged game against big spending Celtic Nation.
The Cumbrians are locked in a 4-way battle at the top of the League with Aycliffe’s neighbours Spennymoor, Shildon and West Auckland.
The game at Moore Lane next week is a 7.30pm kick off, and it promises to be one in which the South West Durham trio keep a keen eye.
The quartet of games is then completed next Saturday (22nd) when Aycliffe host struggling Team Northumbria.
The students are currently occupying the third relegation spot, with Hebburn and Billingham Town already relegated.
The students were in truth much the better side when Oliver’s men went there earlier in the season, but have been unable to replicate that performance level since.
If Aycliffe can beat them next week, it will go a long way to condemning them to the drop, while assuring the Royal Blues of another season in the top flight.
Aycliffe have a number of events coming up off the field also.
On Friday 28th March they welcome ‘The Three Legends’ to the WMC at 7.30pm for what promises to be a highly entertaining evening.
Then on May 9th, Terry ‘The Bull’ Jenkins is the guest for the Evening of Darts, at the Sports Club.
Jenkins was a beaten finalist in the UK Open just last weekend, so will be coming to Aycliffe in good form!
For details on either of these events, please contact Dan Lewis, Paul McGeary or Barry Waters.
