Newton Aycliffe’s four-match unbeaten run came to an end with a 3-0 humbling at home to Guisborough Town.
Peter Dixon’s side were on a roll after back-to-back wins over Jarrow Roofing, West Allotment Celtic and Morpeth Town followed a draw with Sunderland RCA.
It signalled the beginning of a much-needed run of goof form which saw the Newtonians climb away from relegation danger and into a comfortable 15th-spot in the Northern League first division.
But seventh-placed Guisborough brought Aycliffe back down to earth with a 3-0 victory at the Aux Audio Stadium on Tuesday night, thanks to goals by Damien Stevens, Danny Earl and James Risborough.
Aycliffe hope to bounce back on Saturday with a tough trip to fourth-placed North Shields.
FIXTURES
Tues 4th Nov: Guisborough Town (H) 7.30pm
Sat 8th Nov: North Shields (A) 3pm
Tues 11th Nov: Hebburn Town (H) 7.30pm (League Cup)
Sat 15th Nov: Ashington (H) 3pm
Sat 29th Nov: Jarrow Roofing (A) 3pm
Sat 13th Dec: Bedlington Terriers (A) 3pm
Sat 20th Dec: Newcastle Benfield (H) 3pm
Fri 26th Dec: Bishop Auckland (A) 1pm