Final three games, in a week, for the senior men and one point needed to secure the league title.
Monday away at Shildon BR, the squad was split to try and give everyone game time over the three games. A very poor start as Aycliffe went two down inside five minutes. However, the lads showed great character with goals from Mason Steed x2 and Jack Mortimer, with all the subs used Aycliffe looked like grabbing the winner, but two goals disallowed and missed golden chances the lead wasn’t extended. Then, with 30 seconds to go, Shildon found a equaliser to finish the game 3-3.
Thursday saw Aycliffe host league runners up Richmond Mavericks with 14 players unavailable, and the rest of the squad playing again, the lads failed to settle. However, they took the lead when Richard Murray headed home. Then Richmond drew level, but again Aycliffe went in front through Sam Thompson and then two ahead when Ryan Peart scored. Richmond didn’t give up added their 2nd and then their 3rd to again mean Aycliffe ended with a 3-3 draw.
After the game, Aycliffe were presented with the league winner trophy.
Saturday saw the lads wrap up their league campaign, with only 12 players available, away to Gateshead Leam Rangers, who needed a win to gain promotion. First half Aycliffe were very good, with Jude Bowes heading home and Jack Mortimer putting the lads two up, then, just before HT, Gateshead grabbed a goal. Second half Aycliffe missed seven clear chances to increase their lead and they paid for it when Gateshead scored from a free kick meaning the Seniors ended the week with three draws. However, on to Friday 10th May for the first of the two cup finals.