By Paul Blythe
A round-up of football from Newton Aycliffe Junior Section.
Under 8’s Reds – Visited Marton FC Blues again in a reversed league fixture. The pitch started okay, but eventually cut up to become a mud bath. Aycliffe battled bravely but could not get the goal they wanted against a tough opponent. The team enjoyed post-match hot dogs.
Under 8’s – Played away to Riverside Juniors City. Aycliffe started brightly with great passing football and had great chances on goal. Unfortunately, it was not to be their day, but take away positives. The goal was scored by Reuben. MOTM was Felix K for a fantastic defensive display and controlling the game.
Under 8’s Whites – played Consett Magpies who are a strong, physical team. With two late dropouts Aycliffe only had six players available. In a close game, Aycliffe could not find a goal. Parents POTM was Hugo and Louie in goal. Opposition managers POTM was Jacob for a solid display in defence.
Under 10’s Blacks – Played FC Hartlepool United away in a reversed fixture. Hartlepool led, but Aycliffe did not let their heads drop and scored a goal through JJ. Aycliffe were like a different team in the second half, pressing forward and after excellent dribbling skills by Alfie S, he fired a pinpoint left foot effort into the top right-hand corner of the goal. Alfie S got his second of the game slotting home Aycliffe’s third just before full time. An impressive performance from the team. POTM who was picked by the opponent’s manager was Alfie S as he never stopped and ran the whole game, setting a positive example of winning every ball, getting back whenever he was needed and for his overall teamwork and attitude throughout the game.
Under 11’s Blacks – Reversed their home fixture with Thirsk Clarets, who looked dangerous from the kick off and passing the ball with ease soon taking the lead. Aycliffe picked up and then got a hold of the game but missed two glorious chances to equalise before the break. In the second half Aycliffe pushed for a goal but could not find the finishing touch, eventually going down 4-0 despite heroics from MOTM Matty who made some amazing brave saves in goal.
Under 12’s – Travelled to face high flying Willington. With the regular goalkeeper missing, right back Michael deputised between the sticks. The game was fast, and Aycliffe were on top for the first fifteen minutes, however they were undone by a deflected screamer and a top corner free kick. Aycliffe kept on pushing to score, but Willington broke on the counter to lead 3-0 at half time. In the second half the teams went toe to toe with the hosts eventually coming away with a 7-5 win. Aycliffe’s goals were scored by Maxi (2), James, Tyler, and Max. MOTM was James for an impressive performance and to Michael for a great game in goal.
Under 15’s Whites – Are taking division five in their stride as they completed the double over Riverside Junior Blues. In the previously meeting, Aycliffe won 2-1, so Aycliffe knew they were in for a tough test. Riverside tried to be physical but could only come off second best. Ethans deep corner allowed Jake to set up Josh to smash home the first. Trystan in goal was rarely troubled thanks to a solid defence. Deep into the second half, Henry did not back out of a challenge and took a hard hit, but the ricochet set up Tom nicely through to seal a 2-0 victory. MOTM was Henry who was influential on the left wing and showed real passion.
Under 14’s – Won away to Wolviston Under 13’s who play in Division 2 in a friendly game. Coming from 1-0 down to win 4-2. With key players missing and only one sub, players were asked to play in various positions today and they did Aycliffe proud. An outstanding performance against a particularly good team. Goals from Mo (2), Harley and Harry. MOTM was Ethan.
Under 16’s Whites – Had a tough afternoon away to Greatham, in tough playing conditions Aycliffe could not find the breakthrough, eventually losing disappointingly 5-0.