Football league forced to cancel cup contests
From the Northern Echo, first published Wednesday 28th Mar 2001.

A FOOTBALL league has had to cancel all of its cup competitions because the bad weather has caused a fixture backlog.
Clubs in the Stepy's Coaches Durham Sunday Football League have agreed to the drastic move in a bid to complete the league season on time.

It is the first time in the league's history that this has been proposed.
The bad weather, which has plagued the season, has resulted in more than 400 games needing to be rescheduled.
The season must finish on May 13, and rearranging so many games would have proved an impossible task.
Some teams have only played five league games to date and, with only six weeks left of the season, they would have to play virtually every night to complete the fixtures.

In addition, Durham City Football Club, the venue for the cup finals, have said their ground will not be available.
The competitions which have been cancelled are the Justsport League Cup, Racing Promotions Trophy, Durham City AFC Supporters Trophy, Ramside Hall Hotel Cup Winners Trophy, Durham Driveways Cup and FTC Motorcycles Trophy.
Graham Lilley, the league's honorary secretary, said: "Nobody in the league is happy with this decision.
"But the alternative was the league would not be finished and we would not be affiliated for next season.
"And clubs who had not completed their fixtures would be removed from the league to enable completion."



Stepy's Coaches Durham Sunday League
From the Northern Echo, first published Friday 30th Aug 2002.

Last Sunday all clubs in the League took part in the first Round of the Racing Promotions Trophy. As usual it produced some shock results.
The biggest casualty of the day was Premier side Hetton Lyons Cricket Club, last season's beaten finalists and much fancied to win the trophy this time around, crashing out at the first hurdle.

Level at 1-1 after 90 mins at Byers Green WMC, from the Third Division, thanks to a Alan Dormund goal; Extra Time failed to produce a winner, the game then went into penalties, with the home side Byers Green winning 4-2 in the penalty shoot out.
Current Holders of the Trophy had a tough game at fellow Premier side Sherburn Lambton Arms.

Sherburn took the lead in the 70th minute with a fine strike by Tony Simpson , Murton then levelled in the 85th minute by Gary Clarkson. That put the time into extra time and five minutes into extra time Geoff Smith scored the golden goal for Murton to win the tie.
Premier side Admiral Heating crashed to a 5-2 home defeat by visitors Witton Gilbert WMC.

Two each from Jimmy Slater and Kevin Coates plus a strike from sub Steve Embleton gave Witton the Win. Goals from Andy Yule, Jamie Haughton, Chris Dawson, David Jackson and Chris Lowery gave the North Biddick a 5-0 win at Bearpark WMC.

Premier side Sedgefield St Edmunds also crashed out of the competition losing 4-2 at Langley Park WMC.

Newcomers to the League Durham Pot and Glass travelled to Premier side Fishburn WMC and the difference in class showed as Fishburn ran out 9-2 winners. A John Barber hat trick, Wayne Richards 2 and one each from Andy Howarth, Peter Cummings, Liam Parsons,Dave Wilson all scored.

Relegated from the Premier last Season Kelloe entertained Premier side Pelton Roab, Kelloe showing that they are favourites to return to the Premier at the first attempt were 7-0 winners two each from Dave Milburn, Andy Soppitt ,Paul Wier and an own goal.
Premier new Boys Coxhoe WMC entertained the White Tunn and were comfortable 4-0 winners Gavin Barton claiming a hat trick and a fine strike from Gareth Mullen.

Newton Hall returned to winning ways and into the next round winning 3-1 at Sacriston WMC.

Two fine goals from Tony Hanson plus one from Paul Eiles gave Meadow Field Brancepeth Castle a 3-2 win at Lumley Sports and Social.
Two Goals each for Chris Taylor and Kevin Kerr plus one from Graeme Cole saw the Jovial Monk progress to the next round in the 5-2 win at the Glenndenning Arms, Lumley Snooker Club beat fellow fourth Divison side Pittington 3-2 thanks to goals from Richard Kay 2 and Peter Birelson, Waterhouses were 4-3 winners over visitors Ferryhill Black Bull.

Washington Arms recorded their first win of the season in the 3-0 home win against Houghton Mill All Stars Gordon Harrison, Colin Quinn and John Wilson scoring.

Goals from Kevin Gillham and Stuart Dunn put Ferryhill WMC into the next round at the expense of visitors Ushaw Moor Cricket Club.
Esh Winning McKennas were 4-1 winners over Langley Park Sports and Social. Shaun Smith scored 2 plus one from Phil Bennet to give Houghton Chilton Lodge a 3-1 home win over Burnmoor Dun Cow.

The Highest scoring game of the day saw Ouston Red Lion win 7-6 at Durham Coach and Eight a hat trick from Andy Knox plus strikes from Andy Coulthard, Barry Allport and Graham Irvine was not enough for the Coachmen.
Top marksman for Ouston Dave Hewson was back on form scoring four,Lee Hewson ,Steve Brown, Callum Larkins added the rest.
Hetton New Inn crashed to a 2-1 defeat at Dunlop Tyres. Brandon Sports continued their winning ways with a fine 2-1 win over visitors New Herrington Flighters, Michael Fort and Tony Keogan scoring.

Houghton Glendale were 6-1 winners over the visitors Washington Honest Boy.

Sunderland Lakeside made the Long Trip to Newton Aycliffe WMC and returned empty handed as they were beaten 6-3 in a highly entertaining game Tony Forster scoring two plus one from Joe Beeston for the Lakeside.

Chilton WMC were 5-3 winners at home to Belmont Sportsmans. Brandon Bay Horse were 4-3 winners at Kirk Merrington Half Moon. A Dave Watchman hat trick plus one each from Mike Carruthers and Paul Feardon gave Bowburn Cooperage a 5-1 win at Durham Bede Lodge.
Washington Sports were 9-2 winners at the Britannia Inn. Washington Lambton Village were 5-1 winners over visitors Pelton Fleece Inn. The Garden Farm were 9-0 winners over visitors Esh Winning Cricket Club. A hat trick from Jamie Bennett and one from Andy Ward gave Gilsgate Moor Hotel a 4-1 away win at Birtley William IV Hotel.


Hall bags a brace in Hetton's Cup victory
From the Northern Echo, first published Friday 18th Oct 2002.

Stepy's Coaches Durham Sunday League: In the Justsport League Cup second round Houghton Glendale entertained Hetton Lyons Cricket Club, in a very entertaining game the home side were eventual winners 3-2.Chris Hall scored early on for Glendale before Paul Hinton levelled but Eddie Hudspeth put Glendale back in front. Hall added a penalty in the 50th minute although Ben Ryan pulled a goal back for the Cricketers. Washington Sports were 9-5 winners at Chester Garden Farm. Horner's travelled to Washington Arms and goals from Steve Passmoor, Dave Sawyer (2) and Lee Slater put then into the next round winning 4-3. Premier side Fishburn WMC were 3-1 winners at Lumley Sports and Social thanks to goals from Graham Kime, Martin Bowes and Peter Cummings. Houghton Comrades are in the draw for the next round at the expense of visitors Belmont Sportsman's, goals from Dean Warrington, Paul James and Paul Bainbridge gave them a 3-2 win.Newton Aycliffe WMC were leading 2-1 at Sedgefield with goals from Chase McMullen and Dave Brassel when referee Gordon Smith had to abandon the game due to a serious injury to a Sedgefield player.Langley Park Sports and Social lost 13-3 at Chilton Wmc. Two goals each from Dave Milburn and Gary Pratt was not enough to prevent Kelloe Wmc from losing 5-4 to visitors Bearpark Wmc. In the Washington derby game two goals from Lee Cosgrove and one from Chris Holtan was enough for the North Biddick to progress into the next round at the expense of the Lambton Village. Two hat-tricks each for Steve Fenn and Phil Thompson plus two from Alistair Dodd's and a solo effort form Dave Jane gave Houghton Mill All Stars a 9-0 away win at Witton Gilbert. Newton Hall entertained Burnmoor Dun Cow and the Premier side proved to be to strong winning 6-1 Dave Oliver (2), Martin Blenkinsopp (2), and one each for Darren Burnham and Dave Rutherford. Murton Village Inn were 6-1 winners at Brandon Sports. Ferryhill Black Bull lost 3-2 to visitors Hetton New Inn, John Richardson (2) and Lee Jarvis for the New Inn. Meadowfield Brancepeth Inn continued their winning ways with a 4-1 win over Esh Winning McKenna's, Tony Hanson (2), John Harrison and Mark English scoring.In the only game in the Premier Division a Dan Jowett hat-trick was not enough to stop Burnmoor CC losing 4-3 at Pelton Roab.In the First Division Sunderland Lakeside won despite Trevor Chambers being dismissed, winning 3-1 at Bowburn Cooperage, Ray Hopkins, Mark Naile and Chris Merritt.In the Second Division Washington Dunlop entertained New Herrington Flighters and the Flighters proved to be stronger, scoring in the 72 minute when Dave Waddell fired home.Durham City Wmc maintained their unbeaten League form with a 5-2 home win over visitors Newton Hall Jovial Monk Kieth Garget (2), and one each from Ian Airton, Dave Forster, and Chris Brown. Chris Taylor scoring two for the visitors goals from Steve Brownlee and Dave Hewson gave Ouston Red Lion a share of the points in a 2-2 draw at Ushaw Moor Cricket Club.In the Third Division Durham Bede Lodge crashed to a 7-1 defeat at Washington Honest Boy, Dean Card scoring goals from Tim Asqiuth and Colin Hutchinson gave The Glendenning Arms a 2-1 home win against Houghton Chilton Lodge.In the Fourth Division Pittington were 3-0 winners over visitors Durham Pot and Glass thanks to goals from Brain College, Damien Foster and James Donaldson. A goal each from Brain Gott and Mark Kirkup was not enough to prevent Esh Winning Cricket Club from losing 4-2 at home to Pelton Fleece. Waterhouses were 5-4 winners at Lumley Snooker Club.


Premier Division
P W D L F A GD Pts
Meadowfield Brancepeth Cas. 7 7 0 0 24 6 18 21
Hetton Lyons Cricket Club 6 5 0 1 29 8 21 15
Burnmoor Cricket and FC 7 3 2 2 17 10 7 11
Sherburn Village Lambton Ar. 7 3 1 3 26 18 8 10
Murton Village Inn 6 3 1 2 8 9 -1 10
Pelton ROAB Wmc 6 3 0 3 12 17 -5 9
Sedgefield St Edmunds 6 2 2 2 14 13 1 8
Fishburn Wmc 6 2 1 3 11 18 -7 7
Fatfield North Biddick Soc. C. 6 1 3 2 12 16 -4 6
Spennymoor Admiral Heating 7 2 0 5 15 23 -8 6
*Coxhoe Wmc 6 1 1 4 5 17 -12 1
Newton Hall Afc 6 0 1 5 4 22 -18 1


First Division
P W D L F A GD Pts
Sacriston Wmc 9 5 2 2 24 15 9 17
Chester Garden Farm Fc 6 5 1 0 28 5 23 16
Houghton Glendale Social 5 5 0 0 14 2 12 15
Sunderland Lakeside Sp. & S. 9 4 1 4 20 26 -6 13
Brandon Bay Horse 6 3 1 2 19 19 0 10
Kelloe Wmc 7 3 0 4 15 20 -5 9
Witton Gilbert Wmc 6 2 2 2 19 16 3 8
Lumley Sports and Social Cl. 7 2 2 3 17 16 1 8
Washington Sports 6 2 1 3 12 15 -3 7
Belmont Sportsmans Arms FC 7 2 1 4 18 21 -3 7
Hetton le Hole New Inn 7 1 1 5 6 20 -14 4
Bowburn Crowrees FC 7 1 0 6 9 26 -17 3

Second Division
P W D L F A GD Pts
Durham City Wmc 5 5 0 0 17 6 11 15
Ouston Red Lion 5 3 2 0 25 11 14 11
Washington Dunlop Tyres 7 3 2 2 14 10 4 11
New Herrington Flighters 5 3 1 1 16 16 0 10
Langley Park Wmc 7 3 1 3 13 17 -4 10
Houghton Mill All Stars 7 3 1 3 19 23 -4 10
Chilton and Windlestone Wmc 4 3 0 1 20 9 11 9
Esh Winning McKenna's 3 2 0 1 13 5 8 6
Ushaw Moor Cricket Club 5 1 2 2 8 11 -3 5
Washington Lambton H'man 6 0 3 3 12 16 -4 3
Washington Arms 7 1 0 6 9 30 -21 3
Newton Hall Jovial Monk 7 0 2 5 9 21 -12 2


Third Division
P W D L F A GD Pts
Washington Honest Boy 8 5 0 3 31 17 14 15
Gilesgate Moor Hotel 5 4 0 1 22 11 11 12
Newton Aycliffe Wmc 5 3 1 1 20 7 13 10
Byers Green Wmc 4 3 1 0 11 5 6 10
Houghton Comrades Fc 6 3 1 2 19 17 2 10
Durham Bede Lodge Social 6 2 2 2 12 16 -4 8
Ferryhill Black Bull 4 2 1 1 13 11 2 7
Witton Gilbert Glend. Arms 6 2 1 3 10 17 -7 7
Gilesgate Moor Brittania Inn 7 2 0 5 14 32 -18 6
Ferryhill Wmc 4 1 2 1 11 9 2 5
Houghton Chilton Lodge 6 1 2 3 18 22 -4 5
Durham City Coach and Eight 4 1 1 2 8 11 -3 4
Kirk Merrington Half Moon 7 1 0 6 14 28 -14 3


Fourth Division
P W D L F A GD Pts
Pittington Fc 9 6 2 1 30 19 11 20
Waterhouses Fc 8 6 1 1 27 14 13 19
Pelton Fleece Fc 8 5 1 2 24 20 4 16
Brandon Sports Club 6 4 1 1 19 6 13 13
Birtley King William 6 4 0 2 15 9 6 12
Chester-le-Street Horners 5 4 0 1 15 10 5 12
Bearpark Wmc 7 3 1 3 19 16 3 10
Lumley Sooker Club 8 3 0 5 23 26 -3 9
Esh Winning Cricket Club 8 3 0 5 15 22 -7 9
Burnmoor Dun Cow 6 2 0 4 13 19 -6 6
Langley Park Sports & Social 7 1 1 5 17 24 -7 4
Witton Gilbert White Tun 6 1 0 5 10 23 -13 3
Durham Pot and Glass Fc 8 0 1 7 6 25 -19 1
*Denotes three points deducted


Stepy's Coaches Durham Sunday League
From the Northern Echo, first published Friday 15th Nov 2002.

The Durham County Sunday Football Association Cup took preference over League fixtures, only one game being played in the Premiership which saw Spennymoor Admiral Heating being 4-3 home winners over Sedgefield St Edmunds. Steve Quinn (2), Michael Jackson and Steve Jackson scored for the home side with John Holvey, Richard Bayles and John Maddison replying for Sedgefield.

In the DFA Sunday Cup Meadowfield Brancepeth Castle were winners over Stockton Portrack Cons, Newton Aycliffe Wmc defeated Hartlepool Supporters Association, Houghton Glendale were winners over Shotton Comrades, Hetton New Inn were winners over visitors Darlington Hurworth Albion, Sherburn Lambton Arms needed penalties to beat visitors and one of the favourites to win the Cup, Stockton Blytholme Social Club.

Chilton Wmc beat Stockton Rosegale, Murton Village Inn crashed out of the competition losing at South Shields Simonside Club.
In the First Division Belmont Sportsmans were 3-2 winners at home to Sacriston Wmc. Belmont took an early lead when a deflected Stephen Edwards' shot wrong footed the keeper. However, by the break, Belmont were facing a 2-1 deficit. Belmont started brightly in the second half and Burn levelled early on. On 60 minutes, Burn scored an individual goal which proved to be the winner.

In the Second Division Washington Dunlop Tyres were too strong for visitors Ushaw Moor Cricket Club, the Tyre Men winning 4-1. Dave Pybus, Gary McArtney (2) and an own goal providing the goal.

A goal from Greg Chapman gave Langley Park WMC the points in a fine 1-0 away win at Houghton Mill All Stars. Chris Taylor was on form, hitting a hat-trick for the Jovial Monk as they were 4-3 winners at New Herrington Flighters, Graeme Cole adding the fourth, Michael Forster, Michael Murphy and Dave Herron replied for the Flighters.

In the Third Division a Shaun Morris goal gave Houghton Comrades the points in the 1-0 win at Durham Bede Lodge. Goals from Michael Atkinson and Darren Feasey gave the Coach and Eight a 2-1 home win over the Brittania Inn, Houghton Chilton Lodge were 4-1 home winners against Kirk Merrington Half Moon.

In the Fourth Division Horners and visitors Lumley Snooker shared the points in the 1-1 draw, Dave Sawyer for Horners and Ritchie Tiffin for the visitors.

Brandon Sports won 3-2 at Langley Park Sports and Social thanks to goals from Tony Keoghan, Paul Webster and Michael Fort. James Cutler and Graham Powell replying for Langley. Highest scoring game of the day saw Waterhouses win 8-2 against visitors Witton Gilbert White Tunn, a hat-trick each for Paul Taylor, Mark Welsh plus two fine strikes from Paul Taylor.
In the Racing Promotions Trophy Durham City WMC were 4-3 home winners against Kelloe Wmc. Newton Hall were 3-2 winners at Burnmoor Cricket Club in the Justsport League Cup, and in the Durham City AFC Supporters Cup Lambton Village were winners at Bearpark Wmc. Ouston Red Lion were home winners against Esh McKennas, Lakeside won at Pelton Fleece and Witton Gilbert Wmc beat visitors Burnmoor Dunn Cow

Stepy's Coaches Durham Sunday League
From the Northern Echo, first published Friday 31st Jan 2003.

Sherburn Lambton Arms progressed into the semi-finals of the Durham Football Association Sunday Cup for the first time in their history.
The Lambton, promoted into the Premier Division this season, easily disposed of visitors South Shields D2M 2-1. The scoreline did not reflect the amount of possession that Lambton had during the game. Lambton's first goal came from a low cross into the box from Anthony Simpson, that was met superbly by man of the match Graham Best to fire an unstoppable shot. The second was scored by Martin Clough who avoided two tackles to fire home a good solo effort. Lambton dominated but were unable to convert the many chances they created. South Shields scored a consolation goal in the 89th minute when one of their players was fouled in the box, and the resulting penalty was converted.
In the league, goals from Steve Sailisbury, Martin Bowes and Liam Parsons gave Fishburn Wmc a well-deserved win over leaders Meadowfield Brancepeth Castle 3-1, Chris Baxter replying.

Burnmoor Cricket Club were 4-2 home winners over Fatfield North Biddick.

In the First Division the only game played due to Cup fixtures saw Washington Sports win 4-3 at home to Bowburn Cooperage. In the Third Division a hat-trick from Paul Robson plus one each from Andy Nixon and Kurt Burliegh gave Ferryhill Wmc a 5-1 home win over the Honest Boy. In the Fourth Division Bearpark Wmc were 2-1 home winners against Burnmoor Dun Cow.
In the League's Racing Promotions Trophy Newton Aycliffe Wmc were 5-2 home winners against Langley Park Wmc, two each for Andy Ryder, and Billy Swinburn and one from Lee Redhead.

The Durham City Afc Trophy saw Chilton Wmc win 4-1 at home to the Jovial Monk and Witton Gilbert Wmc win 8-1 against visitors Sunderland Lakeside. In the Durham Driveways Trophy Washington Dunlop were easy winners 7-1 against visitors Durham City Wmc.
In the Stepys's Coaches League Cup their were wins for Byers Green Wmc over Durham Bede Lodge, Belmont Sportsmans Arms were 4-1 winners at the Coach and Eight, Ushaw Moor Cricket Club won 2-1 at the Brittania, Admiral Heating were also 2-1 winners at the Gilesgate Moor Hotel, Sedgefield St Edmunds had a fine 7-0 win at Kelloe Wmc, while Sacriston wmC were 4-1 home winners over The Bay Horse and Lambton Village won 6-1 at Waterhouses.

* The Stepy's Coaches Durham Sunday Football League are well represented in the semi-finals of the County Sunday Cup Competition. In the draw Hetton Lyons Cricket Club are at home to Hartlepool Lion Hillcarter, and in the other semi-final Sherburn Lambton Arms travel to the winners of the delayed quarter-final between Humbledon Plains Farm and Houghton Glendale. Should the Glendale win at Humbledon then this would produce an all-Stepy's Coaches semi-final Tie. The Games to be played on Sunday, February 23, 10.30am.

Stepy's Coaches Durham Sunday League
From the Northern Echo, first published Friday 19th Sep 2003.

The big game of the weekend saw current leaders in the Premiership Sherborn Lambton Arms entertain last season's champions Hetton Lyons Cricket Club.

In an very entertaining game honours were even in the 2-2 draw. Graham Best and Chris Gillespie scoring for the home side. Elsewere in the Premiership Houghton Glendale returned to winning ways winning 5-1 over visitors Pelton Roab Club, prolific goalscorer Trevor Laidlaw scoring four with Phil Oliver adding the fifth. Mike McKay replying for Pelton.

In the First Division Ouston Red Lion were surprisingly beaten at home by Coxhoe WMC 2-0. Geoff Manning and Gavin Barton the Coxhoe marksmen. Sunderland Lakeside found the long journey to Chilton fruitless, as they were soundly beaten 4-0.
Leaders in the second division Gilesgate Moor Hotel continued their good run of form with a hard fought 2-1 home win over Langley Park Wmc with top marksman Craig McManus hitting a fine hat-trick.

Leaders In the Fourth Division Houghton Comrades made it four wins in a row as they demolished visitors Bearpark wmc 4-0, Gary Muncaster hitting a fine hat-trick plus a fine strike from Gary Briggs.

Second placed Durham Coach and Eight were made to fight all the way by visitors Brandon Sports, as the Coach were 4-3 winners. Tony Keogh hitting two and Dean Storey one for the visitors.

Second bottom club Durham Bede Lodge are still looking for their first win as they were beaten by visitors Washington Honest Boy 4-2. One each for Steve Cockburn, Alan Brumwell, Peter Cooper and Gary Steele.

In the Fourth Division leaders Lumley Snooker Club were easy 5-0 home winners over visitors Witton Gilbert White Tunn. Goals from Richard Tiffin, Peter Birleson, Adam Melvin, Colin Grimshaw and Andy Robertson secured the win. Third-placed Burnmoor Dun Cow were 4-1 winners at Durham Pot and Glass thanks to goals from Chris Staples (2) and one each from Tony Daggert and Wesley Hood. Goals from Ian Brown (2) and Gary Corfield gave West Rainton their first away win off the season at lowly Langley Park Social. Micheal Watson replying for Langley.
Pelton Fleece were 2-1 home winners over Esh Winning Cricket Club thanks to fine strikes from Bob Dick and Paul Younger.

In the League's Cup competitions, the Racing Promotions Trophy first round brought together Ferryhill wmc and Newton Aycliffe wmc in a local derby, the home side Ferryhill proving to be the stronger side winning 4-3. Chris Dixon hit a hat-trick along with a fine strike from Steve Wharrier. Dion Raitt (2) and Bill Swinburn for the visitors.

In the Durham City AFC Supporters Trophy first round, a brace each from Lee Stewart and Steve Fenn plus a solo effort from Phil Thompson saw home side Houghton Mill All Stars progress into the next round beating visitors Pittington FC 5-1.
Despite goals from Andy Bowes and Shaun Smith, Houghton Chilton Lodge were beaten 3-2 at Birtley Coach and Horses. In-form side Durham City Wmc travelled to Waterhouses and came away 5-2 winners in a very hard fought game. Durham City marksmen were Alan Humble, Stuart Tindale, Paul Newman, Richard Johnson and Neil Bewley. Hetton New Inn needed extra time to win at Witton Gilbert Glendenning Arms 4-3.

In the Durham County Football Association Sunday Cup preliminary round Washington Arms travelled to Wear Valley Sunday League side Etherley Dog and Gunn. Washington Arms came from 4-1 down to win 5-4. A brace for Vinney, Moran, one apiece for David Lyall and Russell Day with Neil Sybenga settling the tie in extra time with a golden goal.
Burnmoor Cricket Club were 8-1 winners at Trimdon Sunday League side Durham Three Rivers Housing and Chester Horner's were 5-2 winners at Seaham Conservative Club.

Stepy's Coaches Durham Sunday League
From the Northern Echo, first published Friday 10th Oct 2003.

Last season's Premiership champions Hetton Lyons Cricket Club must travel to Hull to meet Smith and Nephew FC in the second round of the All England FA Sunday Cup Competition on Sunday, November 2.
Smith and Nephew play their home fixtures in the competition at Boothferry Park, formerly home of Hull City of Division Three. Hetton had a bye in the first round played on Sunday.

The big game in the Premiership last Sunday saw Hetton Lyons CC travel to newly-promoted Houghton Glendale Social. The Glendale put up a good show but were beaten 4-2 in a highly entertaining game. Four from Chris Moody plus a strike each from Tony Healer and Ryan Drummond gave Pelton ROAB club a fine away win in the derby at Chester Garden Farm.

In the First Division the only game saw Belmont Sportsman's Arms return to winning ways with an emphatic win against the Esh Winning McKenna's. Phil Lloyd put Belmont ahead after 15 minutes with a header and a headed goal from Keith Burn put them 2-0 up 20 minutes later. Five minutes before the break, Darren Burnham got Esh back into the game to make it 2-1. After the break, there was no stopping Belmont as Keith Burn added two to complete his hat-trick and further goals from Steven Forster and Alex Mirley gave Belmont Sportsman's a 6-1 victory.
In the Second Division Ferryhill Wmc made up ground on them with a hard-fought win at Newton Hall Jovial Monk 2-1, Paul Robson and Gary Armstrong scoring the vital goals. Kelloe wmc suffered a 6-1 defeat at New Herrington, Dave Morrow scoring for Kelloe. Goals from Carl Sims, Andy Ryder, Bill Swinburn and Kevin Moore gave Newton Aycliffe wmc the points in the 4-1 win at Washington Lambton Village.

In the Third Division Bearpark wmc were 3-1 winners at Birtley William thanks to strikes from Shaun Davis, Andy Guy and Kieth Rutherford. A hat-trick from Nick Barker gave Bede Lodge a fine 3-1 home win over Brandon Sports. Belmont Wmc crashed to a 5-0 defeat at Waterhouses.
In the Fourth Division leaders Chester Horner's were 3-1 winners at the Glendening Arms, two fine goals from Colin Grimshaw and one from Ritchie Tiffin gave Lumley Snooker Club a fine 3-0 win at Durham Pot and Glass and maintain second spot in the Division. Biddick Inn and visitors Pelton Fleece shared the points in a 3-3 draw, Robert Dick (2) and Simon Peachey for the Fleece with Lee Baxter hitting two and Stuart Conlin the other for the Biddick. Despite scoring a hat-trick Michael Watson was on the losing side as Langley Park Sports and Social crashed to a 6-4 home defeat from Witton Gilbert White Tunn, Martin Merrin adding the other goal. Two newcomers to the League Birtley Coach and Horses travelled to West Rainton Greyhound, the home side proving to be the stronger of the two sides winning 4-1 thanks to goals from Ian Brown (2), Andy Wilkinson and Chris Wilkinson.

In the Racing Promotions Cup second round, Durham City Wmc proved to be too strong for visitors Pittington Durham winning 3-1. Sherburn Lambton Arms were 6-0 winners at Houghton Chilton Lodge. Big shock of the day saw Premier side Brandon United crash to a 2-1 home defeat against Chilton Wmc, Lee Thistlethaitte and Paul Harnett scoring for Chilton.

In the second round of the KJM League Cup the big shock saw Premier side Burnmoor Cricket Club dumped out by Second Division Byers Green Wmc, the scores level at 90 mins 0-0, the golden goal was scored by Dave Snow to put Byers Green through. Holders of the trophy, North Biddick progressed into the next round, easily disposing of visitors Washington Honest Boy 6-1, Lee Cosgrove hitting a hat-trick, plus two from Chris Dawson and one from Derek Trueman. A brace each for Chris Blake man and Adam McLane gave Sunderland Lakeside a hard fought 4-3 win at Ouston Red Lion. Sedgefield St Edmunds needed a golden goal to progress in to the next round, visitors Houghton Mill All Stars had levelled the score to 1-1, Steve Feen for the all Stars and Richard Bayles for the home side. Warren Colby's fine strike in extra time put Sedgefield through. Burnmoor Dun Cow were 5-3 home winners over Washington Arms. Hetton New Inn were 3-2 home winners over visitors Bowburn Hare and Greyhound.

In the only game played in the first round of the Durham Driveways Trophy two each from John Stark and Stuart Dawson gave Langley Park wmc a 4-2 win at Esh Winning Cricket Club.

Stepys Coaches Sunday League
From the Northern Echo, first published Friday 5th Dec 2003.
Hetton Lyons Cricket Club entertained Penrith Grey Bull in the Football Association All England Sunday Cup Third Round.
The game, played at Eppleton CW. Top man Jamie Clark blasted Hetton into the next round with a stunning hat-trick of goals. Hetton now face an away game in the next round at Clubmoor Nalgo on Sunday December 1. Nalgo play in the Liverpool Buisness Sunday League and play all their Home games at the Nalgo Sports Ground. In the Last round they were 6-0 home winners over Ford Motors also from Liverpool In the Durham Football Association Sunday Cup Second Round, best result of the day saw Sedgefield St Edmunds win 6-0 away at Coundon Conservative Club. Esh Winning McKenna's progressed to the next round with a fine win at Easington Officials Club two goals from prolific goal scorer Aaron Scott eased Esh Winning McKenna's into the last 16 of the cup beating Easington officials FC away from home 2-0. The top clash of the day was between Houghton Glendale and fellow League side Chilton WMC. The home side Houghton Glendale won 3-2. Burnmoor Cricket Club crashed to a 8- 1 home defeat from visitors Hartlepool Rovers. Fishburn WMC were beaten 1-0 at Gateshead Allerdene.

GW Horner's entertained Hartlepool Sports Bar and in the first half it finished level at 0-0. In the second half, Sports Bar came out firing and scored in ten minutes. Horner's levelled the score in the 62 mins David Cowie scoring from a Michael Anderson corner. Then 15 mins later Sports Bar scored again, and with the final whistle approaching Horner's went to 3 at the Back. In the 89th min Horner's were awarded a free kick just over the half way line from Simon Masters cross Mick Anderson scored with a bullet header from 6 yards making the score 2-2.
First half of extra time although goal less, there was plenty of action into the 2nd half and with 4 mins to go before penalties, and Sports Bar score the winner.

There were two games in the Premier Division Pelton Road were 7-2 winners at Spennymoor Quinns Mike McKay hitting a Hat Trick, Chris Moody adding two and one each for Nile Johnson and Alan Clark. Sacriston wmc were 5-1 Home winners over Chester Garden Farm.
In the First Division Hetton New Inn remain rooted to the bottom of the first division, after a 2-1 defeat to Lumley, whose last league defeat was in August. A first half penalty, by the in form Steven Roughly and a Paul Bainbridge strike were enough to take Gary Brown's men to 3rd place in Division 1.While Sunderland Lakeside reorded their biggest win of the season beating visistors Coxhoe wmc 4-0.
In the Second Division goals from Jason Ryder, Mike Carr and Ray Stanger gave In form Newton Aycliffe a 3-0 home win over Langley Park Wmc. Kelloe wmc recent run off form came to an abrupt end as they were well beaten at Washington Dunlop Tyres 4-0. Bowburn Hare and Greyhound were 3-2 winners at Washington Lambton Village.

In the Third Division three quick goals for Brandon Sports, one a piece from Lee Nyland, Scott Hopson and Michael Fort, had the home club Washington Arms reeling and shell shocked by the half time whistle, a second half recovery saw the Arms get back into the game with goals from David Lyall and Michael Shackleton but despite a frantic last ten minutes Brandon Sports held on to win the game 2-3.Two Goals from Marc Brierley and one each for Gareth Trowels and Dayle Morris saw Bottom Club Waterhouses earn three hard fought points in the 4-2 away win at Durham Bede Lodge. A goal from Billy Oliver earned Pittington a share of the points in the 1-1 draw at Birtley William. Houghton Chilton Lodge were 1-0 winners over visistors Washington Honest Boy.

In the Fourth Division goals from Darren Heslop, Brian Gott, Paul Archer and Mark Kirkup gave Esh Winning Cricket Club a fine 4-1 away win at Birtley Coach and Horses Dave Thornton replying for the home side. Fatfield Biddick Inn and visitors Lumley Snooker shared the points in the 3-3 draw Peter Birleson two and Adam Melvin for the Visistors with Martin Callaghan2 and Lee Baxter for the Biddick.
In the Racing Promotions Trophy 3rd Round game Ferryhill wmc were a close 1-0 winner over visitors New Herrington Wmc. Alan Robson scoring the vital winner for the home side.

In the KJM Embroidery League Cup 4th Round saw a repeat of last seasons final holders Fatfield North Biddick travelled to last season's beaten finalists Brandon United, this time the tables were turned with the Brandon winning 5-1. Dave Fort hitting four plus a strike from John Harrison did the trick. Full back Mike Thompson replying for the North Biddick.

Top marksman Dave Hewson was back on form hitting a hat-trick for Ouston Red Lion as they progressed to the next round of the Durham City AFC supporters Trophy beating visistors Houghton Mill All Stars 3-1. Goals from Ben Hulbert two and Sam Goss and Paul Newman gave Durham City wmc a fine 4-3 away win at Burnmoor Dun Cow 4-3. Gilesgate Moor Hotel were 4-2 winners over Byers Green Wmc.
In the Lasertech Trophy 2nd Round Houghton Comrades were 4-0 winners at Durham Pot and Glass thanks to goals from Gary Muncaster 2 and one each for Andy Wallace and Gary Briggs.A goal each from Chris Attey, Paul McVittie and John Coggins could not prevent Bemont Wmc from crashing to a 5-3 home defeat from visitors Witton Gilbert Glendenning Arms.

The Stepy's Coaches Durham Sunday League
From the Northern Echo, first published Friday 2nd Jul 2004.
THE league will kick off on Sunday August 15th, with the Following Teams in each Division.

PREMIER DIVISION
Hetton Lyons, Brandon United, Sherburn Lambton Arms, Sedgefield St Edmunds Pelton RAOB, Houghton Glendale Social, Burnmoor Cricket Club, Fatfield North Biddick Spennymoor Quinns Inn, Sacriston WMC, Chilton WMC, Esh Winning McKenna's.

DIVISION ONE
Chester Garden Farm, Durham City WMC, Lumley, Sunderland Lakeside, Belmont Sportsmans Arms, Brandon Bay Horse, Ouston Red Lion, Gilesgate Moor Hotel, Kelloe WMC, Washington Dunlop Tyres, Newton Aycliffe WMC, New Herrington WMC

DIVISION TWO
Ferryhill WMC, Langley Park WMC, Houghton Mill Allstars, Newton Hall Jovial Monk, Hetton New Inn, Coxhoe WMC, Washington Arms, Houghton Comrades, Bear Park, Ushaw Moor, Durham Bede Lodge, Pittington.

DIVISION THREE
Houghton Chilton Lodge, Brandon Sports Club, Birtley Williams IV, Washington Honest Boy Belmont WMC, Bowburn Hare & Greyhound, Washington Lambton Vill, CChester-le-Street Horners Burnmoor Dun Cow, Pelton Fleece Inn, Lumley Snooker, Biddick in Fatfield.

DIVISION FOUR
Witton Gilbert White Tun, Durham Stonebridge, Esh Winning, West Rainton Greyhound, Langley Park Social, WG Glendenning Arms, Birtley Coach and Horses, Waterhouses FC, Durham Coach and Eight, Burnside WMC, Birtley Board Inn, Sedgefield Black Lion, Gilesgate Moor Travellers, Rest Bowburn Crowtrews WMC.

The League would Like to Thank the League's Sponsor Stephen Johnson from Stepy's Coaches for the continued sponsorship. Also the League's other sponsors, for their continued sponsorship of the various Trophies in the League.
CastleBank Butchers for the Fairplay League, Deerness Driveways for the Presidents Trophy, Durham City AFC for the Guards Cup, Racing Promotions for the Staffieri Cup, Ramside Hall Hotel for the Cup Winners Cup.Lasertech for the Knockout Cup, K.J.M Embroidery for the League Cup , MT Builders for the Team of the Season .K.J.M.Embriodery for the Player of the Year.

Presentation Dinner
The Stepy's Coaches Durham Sunday Football League Held its Annual presentation Dinner in the Ramside Hall Hotel. The 250 people present were entertained by former Liverpool and Republic of Ireland Star Ronnie Whelan, with stories from his playing days, cabaret was supplied by top Comedian Seth Shildon along with an excellent four course meal. League Secretary Graham Lilley was host and compare for the Presentation Evening. The following knockout Cups were presented, the Lasertech Trophy winners Pelton Raob .
The Ramside Hall Hotel Cup Winners Cup Hetton Lyons Cricket Club. The Deerness Driveways Trophy Winners Langley Park Wmc
The K.J.M.Embriodery Trophy Winners Hetton Lyons Cricket
The Durham City Afc Supporters Trophy Winners Chilton Wmc
The Racing Promotions Trophy Winners Chilton Wmc.
The Durham Area CIU Cup Winners Chilton Wmc. In the League the League Sponsor Stepy Johnston presented the Following Awards. Fourth Division Runners Up Burnmoor Dun Cow, Winners Chester le Street Horner's.
Third Division Runners Up Houghton Comrades, Winners Washington Arms. Second Division Runners Up Kelloe Wmc Winners Gilesgate Moor Hotel. First Division Runners Up Esh Winning McKenna's, Winners Chilton Wmc Premiership Runners Up Brandon United (Sunday) Winners Hetton Lyons Cricket Club.

The Guest Speaker Ronnie Whelan presented the Following Awards for the Leading Goals corer in each Division. Fourth Division winner Lee Baxter Fatfield North Biddick.

Third Division Winner Nick Barker Durham Bede Lodge.
Second Division Winner Craig McManus Gilesgate Moor Hotel
First Division Winner Darren Burnham Esh Winning McKenna's
Premier Division Winner Michael McKay Pelton Raob Club.
And the League Overall Winner was Michael McKay Pelton Raob Club.
The League Chairman Michael Henderson was then called upon to present the Castlebank Butchers Fairplay Award to Houghton Chilton Lodge. Michael also presented the M.T.Builders Trophy for the Team of the Season to Chilton Wmc.
The League Fixture and Referee's Secretary Chris Tindale was then called upon to present the Referee of the Year Award and for the six year running the award was presented to Bill McGlen.
The Final Ward of the Night was the K.J.M Embroidery Player of the Year - Kelvin Moore from K.J.M presented the Award to .Michael McKay from Pelton RAOB.


Referee dies on pitch during match
Thursday 3rd April 2008

A NEWLY-qualified referee collapsed and died in front of dozens of horrified fans and players during a football match.
Andrew Moore, a married father-of-one from Newton Hall, fell to the ground inside the centre circle only minutes into the game on Tuesday evening. The 43-year-old had been a referee for just five months but loved the game and officiated every match he could, often taking control of four in a single weekend.
Former Premier League referee Ken Redfern, a friend of Mr Moore's, said: "He was a fabulous man. He'll be greatly missed."His wife Susan, 37, with whom Mr Moore had a daughter, Sabrina, 12, said he was a loving husband, father and son.Mr Moore died during a Stepy's Coaches Durham and District Sunday League fourth division match between Glendenning Arms and the White Tun, two pub teams from Witton Gilbert, near Durham City.

Barely five minutes of the match, at the village's Cooper Hall community pitch, had elapsed when Mr Moore collapsed while waiting for a goal kick to be taken, at about 6.15pm.

Andrew Sutton, the secretary of the Glendenning Arms team, was standing on the touchline.
He said: "I turned my back and the next thing I knew a crowd of players was around him and the two goalkeepers were running towards him. One of the players was shouting for an ambulance."
Mr Sutton urgently called 999, while an off-duty police officer administered emergency first aid. Paramedics arrived about ten minutes later and took Mr Moore to the University Hospital of North Durham, in Durham City.The cause of his death is unknown. The match was immediately abandoned.

Mr Sutton said: "None of us knew quite what to say, but we could read each other's expressions. It was a strange atmosphere afterwards "Before the match, we were all in good spirits. There would have been a good bit of banter between the two teams. I'd spoken to Andy for a good 15 minutes beforehand. He was a genuinely nice guy. He always had time for you, particularly the younger lads on the team.
"On behalf of all involved, we're most sincerely sorry at this tragic event. We wish his family very well."
Jeanette Ryans, landlady of the White Tun, said: "Some of the lads came back to the pub. I couldn't think what to say. They did everything they could."

Mr Moore qualified as a level seven referee in October last year. Despite being at an early stage of his refereeing career, he had a growing reputation and had been chosen to officiate at a cup final later this season.John Topping, secretary of the Durham County Football Association, said: "He was so keen it was unbelievable. Nobody had a bad word for Andy. He'll be a sad miss to everybody connected with refereeing. It's a tragedy."Keith Sutherland, referees' training officer for County Durham, said: "That he'd been chosen for a cup final speaks volumes. He had a great opportunity to go forward and we're very saddened by this,for his family."We had high hopes for him. He was an extremely nice lad. He had experiences that he wanted to share with people. He was a real bonus to our organisation."
Chris Tindale, the Stepy's league's fixtures secretary, said: "Andrew was doing what can at times be a thankless task, but he was doing it with a great deal of keenness. He was showing a great deal of potential. He'll be sadly missed."
Mr Redfern, a Premier League referee until 1994, said: "He was a big man, both in heart and in stature.
"He was a players' referee - that was the most important thing. Not only did he understand the laws, he understood the game."Away from football, Mr Moore, who lived in Newton Hall, Durham, worked as a probation officer and was interested in motor vehicles.Mr Sutton said he would like the Glendenning Arms team to undertake an act of condolence, in tribute to Mr Moore. He said the team would discuss the matter in the next few days.

Kop dream spurs on Lyons' Adam
Hetton Lyons striker Adam Johnston - a Liverpool fan heading for Anfield tomorrow
Published Date: 26 April 2008 Sunderland Echoo

Liverpool fan Adam Johnston was in the stands when the Reds played out a dramatic 1-1 draw with Chelsea in the Champions League semi-final this week.But tomorrow the Wearsider runs out at Anfield looking to emulate his heroes with a Kop goal.The striker, from Farringdon, leads the line for Hetton Lyons Cricket Club in the FA Carlsberg Sunday Cup final against Coundon Conservatives.

And it could have been his THIRD visit to Anfield this season.Adam said: "It was great to be there on Tuesday. The atmosphere was incredible – the best I've known."It was a magnificent night until the 94th minute, when John Arne Riise scored the own goal."I had tickets for the quarter-final against Arsenal when Liverpool won 4-1."But we got stuck on the M62 for six hours because of a big accident and I was 30 miles from the ground when the game kicked off."We turned round, listened to the game on the radio and got home just in time to catch the highlights on telly!"The gas fitter – who also turns out for champions Durham City in the Northern League First Division – got both of Hetton's goals in their 2-0 semi-final win over Paddock.He also scored in Lyons' 5-2 victory over Luton-based St Joseph's two years ago to win the Sunday Cup."It's gone very well for me this season," said the 28-year-old. "The best I've had."I've scored 44 goals for my Saturday teams and 32 or 33 for Lyons."The goal I got in the final two years ago was at the Anfield Road end, so it would be nice to score in front of the Kop."I'm excited about going back and I think I'll get more from the day this time."When we went two years ago it felt like we arrived, played and were on the bus home before I'd properly taken it all in."Not surprisingly, Johnston fancies Lyons' chances. They have just won the Stepy's Coaches Durham and District Sunday League for an eighth consecutive year and the visit to Anfield is one of five cup finals on the horizon.He added: "Coundon are a good side; you have to be to win this competition and reach successive finals."But I'm confident because we've got such a strong squad. All of us play a lot of games in the season and it takes its toll sometimes when you're going out to work all day and then having to play midweek games.

"But you don't think about that at this part of the season. When you're in cup finals, you look forward to every game."Adam's partner, Leanne, and daughter Isabel will be in the crowd at Anfield, where Hetton are expected to be back by more than 500 supporters.

In the Alan Smith Memorial Trophy 2nd round the big shock of the Day saw Bishop Middleham Cross Keys of the second division pulled of a shock win at home to Burnside WMC. Of the premier league. Burnside took the lead against the run of play; however Phil Norman levelled for Middleham just before the interval. The game was at stalemate until the 75th. Minute when Craig Bell scored to put Middleham ahead. Two further goals for Middleham from Darren Salicki in the next ten minutes made the game comfortable for the home side. Burnside scored a late consolation goal and Middleham played the remaining five minutes out to progress to the next round. Kelloe WMC FC over came a tricky away tie at premier rivals Houghton Glendale winning 2 - 1.  It was the home side who started brightly but Kelloe soon dominated possession and took the lead through a clinical finish from Gavin Barton.  The second half continued in the same manner with Kelloe guilty of missing numerous chances with several fine saves from Glendale keeper Nicky Lawson.  With 5 minutes remaining, man of the match Chris Smith ran through on goal and pulled back for Gavin Barton to tap in for his second.  From the restart Glendale grabbed a late consolation from a good finish from striker Barry Turton.Newton Aycliffe wmc were 6-1 Home winners over the Lambton Arms. Sedgefield St. Edmunds - 5 West Rainton  0 ,Mark Ferguson 25mins and Jordan Cooksey just before half time made it 2 - 0 at half time. To the Edmunds, Further goals from Andy Blackburn, Jordan Cooksey and sub Carl Hodges secured an easy win for St. Edmunds.Sacriston WMC WERE 2-1 Home winners over Ushaw Moor Cricket Club.

In the Premier division Of the Swinburn Maddison Durham Sunday Football League the only game of the Day  was  the Big  Washington derby,  Fatfield Biddick Inn were the visitors to GlebeParkto take on the Washington Arms in an entertaining game which ended with the points shared. With both teams committed to attacking football the only surprise was that the final score was only 1-1. Michele DiMascio put the Biddick lads into the lead after thirty five minutes with a twenty five yard free kick which found its way passed the defending wall and into the far corner of the net. In the second half the Arms picked up the tempo in search of an equaliser which came on the sixty fifth minute mark, Chris Morrison powerfully heading home a Paul Anderson corner kick. The Arms continued to push on in search of a winner, however Fatfield Biddick always looked dangerous on the break and in the dying minute’s two tremendous saves by the Arms keeper Andy Maddocks to deny Biddick's Paul Kindon ensured the points were deservedly evenly shared.   

In a Delayed Durham County Sunday Cup Competition Premier League Leaders Brandon Bay Horse Travelled to Fellow premier Side Ferryhill Wmc, In a Close fought game between the two Premier League teams, although on chances Brandon could have had the game sewn up by half time.  The first goal courtesy of a clinical penalty from Andrew Johnson after he himself had been brought down when through on goal. Michael Fort made it 2-0 just before half time with a fine solo run from the halfway line, taking the ball past 3 Ferryhill players before slotting past the goal keeper.  The second half saw few chances created from either side, with a Final Score of Ferryhill 0 Brandon Bay Horse 2 , Brandon are now at Home to Hartlepool Lion Hillcarter in the next round.

There was very little between Houghton Mill All Stars and Lumley in the Second Round of the JD Taxi's Guards Cup.  In a tight encounter the only goal of the game was scored after thirty minutes when a neat pass from Mill's Robbie Walker was met by David Hall who coolly placed the ball under the body of Lumley's advancing 'keeper Phillip Roughley to put Mill into the next round. 

In the First Division Brandon Sports were 6-4 winners Over Birtley Board Inn, Burnmoor Cricket Club Beat Sacriston Cricket Club 2-1 and Esh winning Cricket Club were 5-2 Home winners over Sedgefield Black Lion.

In the Second Division Chester Plough Inn entertained Pittington Fc Daniel   HILL the Plough Forward scored within   in   2 minutes of the Start. The game   was played at a good tempo Hill produced a superb finish to make   it 2-0. Paul Harrison   made it 3-0     to the Plough.

In the Third Division Bowburn Cooperage entertained AFC Newton Hall and after last weeks defeat The Cooperage went in two goals ahead through Mark Finnigan and Michael Harper, after half time AFC Newton Hall pulled one back before Michael Harper got his second of the game a late consolation was not enough for Newton Hall and the final score was Cooperage 3 Newton Hall 2. Pelaw Grange Dog Fc Entertained East Rainton FC, with a boggy pitch the game was never going to be a spectacle and in the first half several players had a difficulty in keeping their feet. Just before half time KevinTurnes scored a neat goal to take Pelaw in 1 -0. In the second half Pelaw missed several chances and then a quick breakaway and movement by East Rainton saw them pull one back. Previous to this a clear foul in the penalty box on Pelaws Neil Worley wasn't given but Dave Donnelly then had a great run through to put Pelaw back in front and then with 2 minutes to go,, the referee gave a penalty to East Rainton f which they gleefully tuck away in the right hand corner. To level the scores at Full Time of 2-2

In the Fourth Division After a number of weeks without a game, due to Postponed Games Washington Usworth Top Club cruised to a 4.0 away victory at Sedgefield Cross hills. 2 goals from Costa Lorraine and goals a piece from Cal Welch and Steven Duffield give top club there 4th league victory. fielding a much weakened side Framwellgate Moor wmc had to work hard to beat Ferryhill Surtees 2- 1 Anthony  Ormiston  and Dave Pratt the scorers. League leaders Washington Duke of Albany FC produced an indifferent display against Bowburn Crowtrees.  Both teams were guilty of wasting opportunities although it was the home team who were creating the most chances.  In the end goals from Ritchie Lowthian (2), Andrew Cameron, Mark Liddle, Steven Talbot and Lee Bradburn gave the Duke a 6-0 win.  The home team could have easily hit double figures with better finishing, while Bowburn were thwarted by the post and two point blank saves from the Duke keeper.

Tags: League Round-up

County Cup 1st Round Sedgefield S Edmunds - 5 Easington HMS Victory - 3 2 Brian Fairhurst penalties in the first half made the score 2 - 2 at half time.Easington went 3 - 2 up but 2 goals by Stephen Flockett and one from Andrew Beamson gave St Edmunds 5 - 3 win.

Ferryhill Surtees 3-0 Glendenning Arms Not a pretty game by any means, this match was contested on an awful pitch on a cold, windy day which saw both teams struggle to play much cohesive football. From the beginning conditions underfoot were difficult to say the least with players slipping and sliding and nobody really getting the game, or ball for that matter, under control. Glen were struggling to get out of their own half for the first ten minutes as Surtees had both the slope and wind to their advantage and had attempted a couple of speculative efforts before forcing a breakthrough from a corner after 11 minutes. The ball was delivered deep from the left and was half cleared before being forced back into the right side of the area where Snaith fired a shot towards the far post which struck Glen skipper Paul Anderson and beat the helpless Grant before he could react. Surtees continued to use the conditions to their advantage and despite their best efforts to play their usual passing game Glen were becoming increasingly frustrated as they controlled the last 25 minutes of the first half and saw several moves end in nothing with Sanderson twice slicing shots wide, Anderson firing a free-kick over the bar and Winter coming agonisingly close to making contact with a superb cross from full-back Sean Glendinning when he seemed certain to score. The closest Glen came was from a left-wing corner which was delivered into the area by Chris Wharton and the resulting scramble seeing Pearson, Sanderson and Winter have shots blocked before Surtees managed to clear their lines. The second half should have given Glen the opportunity to get the goal they were after but, rather than taking advantage of their superiority several more chances were spurned and the final pass was always overhit, badly placed or blocked by a Surtees defender. The Glen's best chance fell to Winter who beat the Surtees centre back and drove into the left side of the area but his shot found the side netting when he should really have done better. As Glen continued to press forward for the equaliser they found themselves twice exposed on the counter attack, firstly on 68 minutes when a good ball from midfield found Surtees striker Dale Aunger in space 20 yards out and, after selling Grant a dummy, rounded the stranded keeper and rolled the ball into the empty net. The third goal came with only a minute to play. Again, a ball from midfield was Glen's undoing as Lee Hutchinson found space in the left channel and strode onto the pass before dinking the ball over the on-rushing keeper to give Surtees the points and a score-line which flattered them.    

Tags: League Round-up

Second Round Sunday 7th December 2008Kick Off 10.30 am
                                    There are NO Replays in this competition
 
Match                         Home                                                  Away                                       Referees       
  No
 
215      Sedgefield St Edmunds             v                      Boldon Shack                                       G. Humphrey
                                                                                                                                                            (1474194)
216      Coundon Conservative Club or v                      Washington Westwood             P. Simpson
            Lumley FC                                                                                                                               (1474385)
 
217      Sunderland Grangetown Florists or       v                      Staindrop FC or                                   S. Clayton
            Stockton The Dolphin                                                   Hartlepool Supporters Athletic  (1473723)
 
218      Shotton Comrades                                v                      H’pool Owton Manor Social Club        G. Fyvie
                                                                                                                                                            (1473399)
219      Easington Colliery Club & Inst  v                      Horden Rugby Club or             S. Wilson
                                                                                                Sunderland the colonel prior                  (1473448)
 
220      Ferryhill WMC or                                 v                      Hartlepool Lion Hillcarter                      P. Thompson
Brandon Bay Horse                                                                                                                  (1473106)
 
221      Tindale Crescent WMC                        v                      Greenside FC                                       G. McLelland
                                                                                                                                                            (1640841)
 
222      South Shields Vet Reunited                   v                      Pelton RAOB                                       J. Hunt
                                                                                                                                                            (1458729)
223      Houghton Glendale Social                     v                      Sunderland RCA The Barnes             S. Stockbridge
                                                                                                                                                            (1474214)
224      Billingham Telstar                                  v                      Billingham Cons                                    E. Martin
                                                                                                                                                            (1473673)
225      Dawdon Colliery Welfare                     v                      Stockton Hardwick Social Club            M. Ryan
                                                                                                                                                            (1473830)
226      Darlington DSRM All Stars                   v                      Burnside WMC                                    G. Mundell                                                                                                                                                       (1452617)
227      Hartlepool Rovers Quoit                       v                      Hetton Lyons CC                                 K. McKitteick
                                                                                                                                                            (1474239)
228      S’land Humbledon Plains Farm GI        v                      Middlestone Moor Masons Arms         B. Gordon
                                                                                                                                                            (1461468)
229      Chilton & Windlestone WMC or          v                      Consett Station Club Ex-Juniors            M. Coy
            Horden Comrades                                                                                                                    (1472531)
 
230      Washington North Biddick                    v                      Witton Park Rose & Crown or G. Eltringham
                                                                                                Darlington Longfield AFC                     (1473683)
 
 
 
 
It is the HOME teams responsibility to ensure that they make contact with their opponents and the Referee at least FIVE DAYS prior to the fixture.
 
All acknowledgements in relation to referees MUST be received within SEVEN DAYS of issue of the draw.
 
Referees Fees £17.00 plus 30p per mile travelling expenses or actual bus fares. The HOME team is responsible for ALL fees.
 
The Home team is responsible in ensuring that the result is at hand immediately after the game and this can be done by telephone (0191) 3872929, email john.topping@durhamfa.comor text 07721 401192.
 
Both teams must send in fully completed team sheets to the DurhamCountyFA‘Codeslaw’, RiversideSouth, Chesterle Street, Co. Durham. DH3  3SJ.
 
Any last minute emergencies OUTSIDE OF OFFICE HOURS (9.00AM – 5.00PMMONDAY TO FRIDAY) – contact Mr Terry. Farley (01325) 313647
 
Date of Third Round – 4th January 2009
 
 
 

Tags: Avec Sunday Cup

Houghton Mill All Stars progressed into the next round of the NTL Transport League Cup with a comfortable 7-1 home win against Framwellgate Moor WMC. The visitors took lead after fifteen minutes when David Cowan beat the off side trap and shot past Mill 'keeper Dan Pearson. Mill immediately fought back netting four goals before the half time break - two from Gary Adey and headers from Steve Malloy and David Hall. After fifty minutes Adey completed his hat trick before Framwellgate had a couple of chances to score - Steven Carrahar blasting over the bar with the Mill 'keeper to beat was the best chance. With five minutes remaining Steve Fenn was upended in the penalty box and duly got up to shoot the resulting kick home. Gary Adey netted a fourth and Mill's seventh in the dying minutes. In the Same Competition Houghton Glendale needed extra time to beat Visitors Newton Aycliffe Wmc

In the Premier division the Washington Arms are still searching for a first league win, a good performance against high flyers Kelloe Wmc is unrewarded and they go down 2-3. The Arms open the scoring with a David Lyall strike on the twenty minute mark; however in a fruitful fifteen minute spell Gavin Barton blasts Kelloe into the lead with a well taken hat-trick. A John Robson goal with twelve minutes remaining gives the Arms a lifeline but Kelloe hung on to take the three points and move closer to the top spot. Sedgefield St. Edmunds entertained   Pelton RAOB and won 3-1 Pelton opened the scoring after 25 minutes, and it stayed 1 - 0 until half time, but 3 second half goals one from Eddie Johnson (55mins) and two fine strikes from left back Mark Ferguson (65 & 75 mins) gave Sedgefield a 3-1 win. Langley Park wmc were 2-1 Home winners Over Burnside Wmc

A cold Sunday morning at Sedgefield saw The Black Lion entertain Lumley Fc in the First Division. The visitors dominated the early part of the match & a Glen Jackson strike gave Lumley the lead. In the second half Steven Roughley secured a 2-0 victory when his cross come shot ended in the net. Burnmoor Cricket Club entertained Esh winning Cricket Club, goals from Brian Gott and Aaron Scott were not enough to prevent Esh from loosing 3-2.

In the Second Division Hilda Park were 3-2 winners over visitors Washington JFC, Chester Plough lost 1-0 at Pittington, Gilesgate Moor Hotel were 5-1 Home winners over Durham Bede Lodge

In the Third Division East Rainton entertained Pelaw Grange Dog Track Fc ,the Home side were pressed back from the KO but against the Run of play took the Lead on 7 mins .It wasn't long however  before Pelaw Struck back with Neil Worley scoring . After some good work Russell Fowler then scored and it was 1- 2 to Pelaw at half time. In the second half Pelaw went 4-1 up with goals from Russell Fowler and a goal by Kevin Turnes from a free kick just outside of East Rain tons box. East Rainton then had a penalty saved before substitute David Young made it 1-5.Coxhoe wmc were 6-1 winners at Bowburn Cooperage, Ushaw Moor Cricket Club thanks to goals from Jay Wilson 4; Scott Nattrass and Craig Flowers were 6-0 winners at Washington Ox and Plough. The Osborne were 2-1 home winners over Hetton Social

In the Fourth Division Despite having 4 first team regulars missing Witton Gilbert managed to record their first league victory of the season with a battling 3-2 win at Pelton Bird Inn. A very good first Half with the scores level at 2-2.Witton Club opened the scoring through John Renwick who netted from 12 yards with his left foot. The lead was short lived as Pelton equalised direct from a free kick just outside the box which found its way through the Witton defensive wall.Witton regained the lead when a goalmouth scramble led to the ball falling at Jack Cleckner’s feet and he finished smartly. Again the lead didn’t last long, a free kick was awarded and the resultant free kick was deflected in from 6 yards by the Pelton striker.The second half was a different story however and Pelton had a lot of possession but were guilty of missing some good opportunities. With 20 minutes remaining Witton were awarded a free kick and Ian Renwick curled the ball in over the keeper’s head from 25 yards for a gutsy win for Witton. Ferryhill Surtees were 4-2 winners over visistors Sedgefield Crosshills, The Duke of Albany were 7-0 Home winners over Quarrington Hill Wmc.  

The Glendenning Arms entertained Langley Park Sports and Social this was a game which the Glen managed to throw away from a winning position. The opening five minutes were fairly even and saw both teams win themselves corners which came to nothing as they battled to gain control of the match. The first shot on goal came in the 9th minute. Langley Park forward Tony Rutter picked the ball up 25 yards out, wriggled through two challenges and forced Glen keeper Andy Grant into a smart save at his near post. This stirred Glen into life and they could have taken the lead in the 11th minute after a nice passing move involving Sanderson, Dixon and Wardle saw the ball worked out left to Wharton. His first touch wrong-footed Langley Park full-back Michael Cant and gave him room to dink a cross in for Wardle, who had carried his run from midfield, to flick his header over the bar from eight yards. Glen continued to play the better football and worked Langley keeper Peter Caulfield again in the 18th minute with an Andrew Goodburn shot from 20 yards out. Despite not having much possession Langley managed to have a couple of strikes at goal themselves. In the 29th minute a free kick 25 yards out was bent just wide of Grant's left hand post by Langley skipper Keith Caulfield and two minutes later Michael Watson's 20 yard effort was saved comfortably by Grant in the middle of his goal. Glen's passing and movement in midfield was causing Langley all kinds of problems and proved their undoing in the 37th minute. Some good passing found Glen captain Paul Anderson wide on the left and a nice piece of skill afforded him the room a whip over a cross which was missed by the goalkeeper and diverted in at the far post by Langley left-back Simon Huscroft under pressure from Andrew Wood. Three minutes later an excellent sliding challenge from Anderson stopped Rutter having a clean run on goal after he looked to have been put clear half way into the Glen half of the field. The first half didn't see any further chances and ended with Glen a goal to the good. The lead was increased just over a minute into the second half. A loose ball was picked up in the centre circle by Ben Sanderson who spotted Winter in space between the right-back and centre-back and fed him with a superb ball which he strode onto and stroked into the bottom right corner of the net. Langley got a goal back on 50 minutes when a left wing corner was slammed into the net by Keith Caulfield seven yards out .. Glen went on in search of a third goal and almost found it in the 53rd minute when Winter's flicked header from a Paul Dixon cross hit the face of the bar and evaded Wood at the far post. Langley were looking dangerous on the counter and the pace of Rutter forced Wharton to make an excellent challenge on the edge of the box when he looked to have found a way though the Glen's back line. Glen again went close when Goodburn played Wardle through in the left channel but his cross evaded Dixon by inches as he through himself at it at the far post. The third goal came a minute later. Some more good work by The Glen  midfielder, bent a dipping effort beyond the keeper but onto the crossbar. The rebound was picked up by Winter who turned sharply eight yards out and slid the ball under the keeper with his left foot on the half turn for his second of the match. Glen then seemed to switch off and allowed Langley back into the game. On 62 minutes Grant was called into action when Rutter had an effort from 20 yards and a scramble in the Glen area in the 77th minute saw the keeper make another smart save low to his left. Langley scored what appeared to be a goal on 88 minutes when Keith Caulfield forced the ball in at the far post for his second goal after some confusion in the Glen back line. Langley too heart from this and managed to force an equaliser in the 90th minute. The ball was fired over from the left and keeper Grant came sliding out to collect it three yards out but was met by Paul Humberstone which saw the ball squirm into the net to make it 3-3 .The final whistle was sounded moments later and saw Langley Park collect a point and see both clubs continue their recent unbeaten runs.

Tags: League Round-up

Next Meeting for all Clubs and League Management Committee Only is on Wedensday  25th November at Durham City AFC Committee at 7pm.
Clubs at 8pm

Tags: Meeting