As if often the way at this time of the year, the Northern League fixture computer has suddenly provided Newton Aycliffe FC with a glut of games.
Following on from the midweek game away at Dunston, this weekend sees the Royal Blues make the trip to Whitley Bay. Boss Allan Oliver will be looking to build on the positive away performance at Bishop Auckland in both of those games.
However it is the next week at HQ that is really looking interesting. Big Spending Celtic Nation are the visitors to Moore Lane Park in a rearranged game on Wednesday 19th (7.30pm) before Aycliffe host strugglers Team North on Saturday 22nd (3.00pm).
Celtic Nation bring their expensively assembled squad to Aycliffe at a time when they are locked in a 4-way tussle with Aycliffe’s near neighbours Spennymoor, Shildon, and West Auckland. The South West Durham trio will all be looking to Aycliffe to do them a favour! What adds extra spice to the run-in, is that the Cumbrians and Spennymoor are both seeking promotion, whereas Shildon and West are happy to remain in the Northern League for now.
And given that Aycliffe still have to play each of the others in the run-in, it’s fair to say Allan Oliver and his men will have a big say on where the title ends up.
Then, next Saturday, Aycliffe will be looking to put another dent into Team North’s hopes of survival. At present Aycliffe have a reasonable points cushion over the students, but with the games coming thick and fast, things can change quickly.
After last seasons nervous end to the season, Aycliffe will be looking to get the win against Team North that will mean they can start to relax and enjoy the last few weeks.
Off the field, Aycliffe still have tickets available for their evening with ‘The Three Legends’. These are priced at just £10 and include a pie and pea supper. The event is taking place at ‘The Big Club’ on Friday 28th March. Please see any member of the committee for more details.