By Paul Blythe
A round-up of football from Newton Aycliffe Junior Section.
With most games being cancelled due to the rain, below are the three games that survived the weather.
Under 7’s – Travelled to Leven, on a fast 3G pitch, Aycliffe struggled with the opposition’s physicality, it was Harry who scored Aycliffe’s goal. In the development game, Aycliffe performance was much improved.
Under 12’s Blacks – Played against Coxhoe Blacks, in a game Aycliffe could not afford to lose, they started brightly, having most of the possession. After a few chances, Aycliffe eventually got the breakthrough through Benjamin. Aycliffe then hit the post twice, before Coxhoe equalised before the break. It was the hosts who come out faster in the second half with Coxhoe taking a 2-1 lead. Aycliffe then scored their second goal of the game through Rhys after a beautiful cross by Benjamin. In what was a tense game, Coxhoe regained the lead making it 3-2. Aycliffe did not let their heads drop and had wave after wave of attacks. It was Olly M on his debut who grabbed the well-deserved equaliser with the last kick of the game. POTM was awarded to the full team, who all played their hearts out.
Under 12’s Juniors – Travelled to face Riverside Juniors Oranges. Aycliffe played some good football and created numerous chances in the first half but could find a way past the home goalkeeper. In what then turned into a tough afternoon, Aycliffe fell behind to the host. Unfortunately, Aycliffe did not get the result they craved, but were rewarded with two great goals from Joan, his first was a great shot from the left which took a little deflection to beat the keeper. His second was a brilliant individual goal, picking the ball up in the centre, he skipped through four opposition players before striking the ball into the bottom corner. There was two POTM awards, Jonah for his two goals and constant desire to win the ball and create opportunities. Marley, a very composed performance, and great link up play with the midfield.
