Newton Aycliffe FC were on the wrong end of a vintage performance from Spennymoor last week. Whilst they have been more inconsistent than usual this season, when on form at the Brewery Field, there are few, if any, teams at this level who can match Spennymoor. This is evidenced by their successful run in the FA Vase last season, culminating in their Wembley triumph.
For the first time this season, they had a full squad available for selection, and unfortunately for Aycliffe, they clicked right into form.
That said, it was Allan Oliver’s men who had the first chance of the night, with in-form Jamie Owens first denied by Jeffries in the Spennymoor goal, before his follow up effort fell agonisingly wide of the post.
The rest of the first half though wasn’t so positive! After just 6 minutes, the prolific Gavin Cogdon gave the hosts the lead, slotting into an empty net after good work from strike partner Henderson.
The lead was doubled in the 22nd minute, and this time it was Henderson with the goal, powering home a header from Joe Walton’s cross.
Three minutes later and Cogdon added his second, and effectively ended the contest with an impressive solo goal. He picked the ball up 30 yards from goal before out stripping the Aycliffe defence and firing into the corner.
On 28 minutes, he had completed his hat trick. Again Henderson was the provider, and this time Cogdon rounded the keeper before again slotting home.
Fred Woodhouse almost pulled one back for Aycliffe before half time, but once again Jeffries in the Spennymoor goal was up to the task.
The second half, played out in strong winds and driving rain was an altogether quieter affair. Spennymoor missed two good chances to extend their lead, before finally on 62 minutes they did make it 5, when Chay Liddle steered the ball home after a series of corners into Aycliffe box.
This week sees Aycliffe return to home soil, after a string of away games. Hebburn Town are the visitors this Saturday, and Aycliffe will be looking to return to winning ways. Hebburn have struggled so far this season and find themselves at the foot of the table with just 2 points. Aycliffe will be hoping to inflict similar damage to their survival hopes as they did to Billingham Town last week!
The game kicks off at 3pm with admission prices £6 adults, £4 concessions and u12’s FREE.
The game will also see the start of the partnership working between NAFC and Herbalife. There will be a Herbalife representative on hand at Moore Lane Park from 1.30pm to offer advice and help on all aspects of players and supporters nutritional demands as we aim to improve the health and wellbeing of all our players and hopefully supporters as we build towards the future!