By Paul Blythe
A round-up of football from Newton Aycliffe Junior Section.
Under 8’s Whites – Played Leon FC Blacks and could not get the result they wanted against tough opposition.
Under 8’s Whites – Played against Houghton Albion Lions, in tough conditions Aycliffe could not get a goal in the first half. MOTM was awarded to Oscar who scored a wonderful second half hat-trick. Parents MOTM was Louie for his display in goal.
Under 9’s – Faced Richmond Town Blues, Olly scored an early goal and then Harvey saved on opposition penalty. Oliver then scored for Aycliffe into the second half in what was a great display with only 9 players available. Opposing managers MOTM went to Oliver for his hard work, his goal and versatility playing in multiple positions.
Under 10’s Blacks – Faced FC Hartlepool Whites away, after a slow first half Aycliffe come out in the second half with more urgency and belief but could not find the goal they deserved. Grayson, who deputised in goal had an excellent game. Opposition managers MOTM was Lucas.
Under 11’s Blacks – Travelled to Darlington RA in the cup, Aycliffe battled hard against a team some three division higher but could not get the result they wanted. Aycliffe’s goal was scored when Fin crossed from the left for Max to see his first shot saved by the keeper, but he made no mistake with the rebound as he volleyed into the roof of the net. MOTM Fin who was a constant threat down the left.
Under 11’s Whites – Travelled to face Coxhoe Blacks in an entertaining game that was full of goals. Kai scored a wonderful hat-trick for Aycliffe, with MOTM being awarded to Ethan.
Under 12’s Juniors – Faced Darlington 21st Allstar Jets away in the cup, still searching for our first win of the season we started well but a bit nervy. The team settled & started playing some lovely football, to lead 2-0 up at half time. In the second half there was a brilliant display of controlled, passing football and Aycliffe ran out 6-0 winners with 6 different goal scorers. Goals from Dec, Will, Dom, Jonah, Daniel & Sammy. Opposition MOTM was Sammy for solid defending all and some great attacking play. MOTM was Charlie for a really composed, calm display with some great passes.
Under 12’s Blacks – Played against Gateshead, starting the game in control and coming close several times. Charlie made some wonderful saves in goal, however Gateshead grabbed two quick goals. Jack scored Aycliffe’s goal, picking the ball up on the left wing before slotting home. Aycliffe then controlled the game with Harry and Conner in midfield but could not find the equaliser. POTM went to Oliver B for his goal keeping display.
Under 13’s – Hosted Greatham in a top of the table clash. Aycliffe controlled the game coming away with a 6-0 win. Oscar J grabbed himself four goals, and Archie helped himself to a brace. MOTM was Oscar J.
Under 14’s – Hosted Prissick Rovers City in the league cup and progressed through to the next round with a smart 4-1 victory. Mo and Harley both grabbed two goals apiece with MOTM going Luke T who was exceptional, chipping in with three assists.
Under 15’s Blacks – Hosted Seaton Carew Lions, in the first game of 2024. Aycliffe opened the scoring through Mushy and played some good football in a first half they dominated, Seaton did not give up and were awarded a penalty, which was saved by Harry with, however Seaton continued to press and equalised before half time. Jayden scored Aycliffe’s second goal, closely followed by a goal headed in by Danny. Seaton pulled a second back before Jayden finished the scoring for a 4-2 win to Aycliffe. MOTM was shared between Mushy and Danny.
Under 15’s Whites – Hosted Greatham Blues in the cup, the gap in divisions become apparent as the game progressed and it was not Aycliffe’s day going down 6-1, Aycliffe did themselves proud by never giving up. The consolation goal in the second half was a great finish from Tom. MOTM was Trystan who was busy in goal and pulled of some great saves.
Under 16’s Whites – Progressed in the league cup, winning 6-1 at home against Billingham Synthonia. MOTM was Sam who scored a hat-trick, the other goals were scored by Harvey, Josh & Will.