Our panel of three football writers give their predictions on Newton Aycliffe’s game this weekend…
Paul McGeary (pictured left), Aycliffe FC’s official historican and statistician, says: “Harrogate play two divisions below the Football League and have some former league stars in their ranks, most notably Paul Heckingbottom who was with Darlington, Sheffield Wednesday and Norwich. Simon Weaver has promised he’ll send a fit side to us and although I can’t see it being 6-1 like the Sunderland game, I’ve got to be realistic and say we’ll go down valiantly 1-3.”
Glen Robertson (centre), Aycliffe Today sports editor, says: “The most important pre-season friendly in terms of seeing at what level the team is at ahead of the new campaign. There have been goals galore so far and, while there won’t be the 10 that we enjoyed at Leam Rangers, it won’t be goalless either. My prediction: a 3-2 defeat.”
Martin Walker, Aycliffe Today editor and Mantis Media director: “This game has probably been overshadowed by our Sunderland friendly, but is a big fixture for us in its own right and a very difficult test. Having said that, it’ll hopefully be another good work-out for the lads and a decent gate to bring in some much-needed cash! My prediction: a 1-2 defeat.”