By Paul Blythe
A round-up of football from Newton Aycliffe Junior Section.
Under 8’s – Travelled to Middleton Rangers Hurricanes for their first game of the season. With the team entering unfamiliar territory after moving up four divisions, they did not know what to expect, but were excited for the challenge. Aycliffe played some great football, with goals coming from Reuben (2), Reign, Colton, and Fletcher, with both goalkeepers Joey and Luke keeping clean sheets to make it a good day all around. MOTM was Reign, for great positioning and work rate.
Under 8’s Reds – In a new division and sporting new coats, put in a performance full of pride, passion, and controlled aggression to battle against Marton FC Yellows. Goals from Kian (2) and Oliver. MOTM was Michael, with Kian being awarded opposition MOTM.
Under 9’s – Played Darlington TSC at home, with Aycliffe looking to improve their performances from previous weeks. There was good football played against one of the best in the league. Aycliffe’s goal was a great strike from Harvey, who was assisted by Eddie. MOTM was Oliver for his hard work, playing multiple positions.
Under 10’s Blacks – Were away to Prissick Rovers United in the pouring rain. The game was close to being postponed due to a waterlogged pitch; however, the pitch was deemed to be playable. Aycliffe started the game positively and within six minutes scored after a sublime pass from JJ, for Grayson to finish at the far post. The great attacking football continued with a perfect pass from Alfie S to JJ, who slotted home for Aycliffe’s second. Aycliffe continued with this style of play and four mins later Alfie S finished a great pass and move through the middle. After the break Alfie S scored Aycliffe’s fourth with another fantastic pass and move through midfield. Dominating the possession, Aycliffe went on to grab a fifth with another assist from Alfie S, and a composed finish from Jack B into the bottom right corner seconds before the final whistle. A wonderful team performance, including Louie H, in goal for the first half and Lucas P for the second half. POTM was awarded by the opposition manager, was Alife S, who never stopped all game up and down the left wing, with accurate passing and shooting, as well as always coming back to help his teammates when there was pressure close to goal.
Under 12’s Juniors – Entertained Riverside Junior Blues in the second round of the league cup. Playing a team from one division below, Aycliffe knew they would be tested, but dominated the game playing great football. Creating chance after chance, the opposition goalkeeper pulled off fantastic saves, however he could not stop Shay who broke the deadlock with a fantastic strike. The second half was much the same as Aycliffe continued to create chances, after great play by Dec he set Jonah up for Aycliffe’s second. Into the last ten minutes Aycliffe managed to score two more, with Dec & Phoebe both getting on the scoresheet. Riverside managed to pull a goal back, but it finished 4-1 to Aycliffe, who march into the next round of the cup. POTM went to Matty for an assured performance in defence.
Under 16’s Whites – Travelled to Billingham and come home with all three points and a great 3-1 win. Sam, Jack, and Mason scored the goals. MOTM was awarded to Connor who was outstanding.