Team Northumbria 1 Newton Aycliffe 1
By Dave Strickland
Newton Aycliffe resumed their Northern League campaign when they travelled to Northumbria University and came away with a 1-1 draw at the weekend.
The Newtonians started the game well, but went behind against the run of play on 12 minutes when a fine shot from the students’ centre forward Ardelean gave keeper James Winter no chance.
Marc Costello was the victim of a bad tackle on 30 minutes and had to go off, being replaced by Jamie Davis.
On 32 minutes man-of-the match Winter pulled off a superb save in a one-on-one situation.
The first 20 minutes of the second half were an equal contest, but then Aycliffe pushed further forward and dominated the remainder of the half.
On 67 minutes, Jordan Roberts went on a mazy run down the right and shot into the side netting.
Seven minutes later he repeated the feat, but this time he hit a low cross into the six-yard box and substitute Glen Lane turned it in for the equaliser.
On 84 minutes, recent signing Jordan Jewson hit a fine shot, only for home keeper Purvis to pull off a great save.
Aycliffe had an injury-time let-off when the students broke out of defence and headed a cross against the post.
Aycliffe’s next game is at home to local rivals Shildon on Saturday (February 3, 3pm kick-off).
