By Martin Walker
Aycliffe boss Allan Oliver has praised stand-in goalkeeper Ste Richardson for his “mature” performance against top-of-the-table Sunderland RCA on Saturday.
The Newtonians claimed a much-deserved point at Meadow Park – and could have clinched a win after having the best of the chances.
But Oliver has singled out Richardson, making only his second appearance covering for Scott Pocklington, and centre-back John Close for stand-out performances.
“Ste was superb, it was a mature performance,” said Oliver.
“It gives me massive reassurance that I can call on him to come in and do a job like he did yesterday.
“He’s definitely matured over the years and he was our man-of-the-match yesterday.”
Oliver was delighted with the point, adding: “To go to the top-of-the-league side and get a point shows how far we’ve come this season.
“We arguably had the best chances and could have won it, but we can’t grumble with a point.
“We’re back at home next Saturday, a huge game against another big side in Dunston, and we look to continue our unbeaten run.”