Four league wins in a row, including 10 goals for leading scorer Chris Jones, saw Newton Aycliffe Sports Club secure the Runners up spot in the Wear Valley Sunday Morning League with their second promotion in as many seasons. The club can be very proud for what they have achieved so far.
In last week’s 6-3 victory against Cockton Hill Club, Chris Jones bagged his second hatrick in as many games. He made it three hatricks in a row against Shildon Three Tons in the last game of the season. This secured his position as top goal scorer at for the second season in a row, with 36 goals, with Connor Hughes close behind on 30 – a formidable partnership this season.
In the pouring rain Aycliffe did not get off to the best of starts going one nil down after 20 minutes after failing to clear a low driven cross from the hosts which saw stand in keeper Craig Hannant beaten at the far post. The conditions made it difficult for either side to take control and with just a few moments to go before the half time break Chris Jones managed to beat the offside trap and slot home his first of the game.
The away side took control second half, with substitute Ryan Stonehouse coming into the centre of midfield and Gareth Boyes moving from centre back into his more usual role alongside Stonehouse in the centre of the park. Chris Jones quickly wrapped up his hatrick with two well taken goals, but a quick reply for Three Tons from the kick off opened the game up for an exciting final 20 minutes. However, Ryan Stonehouses wicked strike from the edge of the box secured the points and ensured the Sports Club finished on a high.
With ten minutes to go, Chris Jones was substituted to allow veteran David Hall to make his final appearance for the Club. Known fondly as “The Chief” within, Dave has decided to call it a day on Sunday football to concentrate on over 40’s football next season. He almost rounded the game off with a goal after good unselfish work from Connor Hughes who freed him up to strike towards an empty net, but he somehow managed to slot the ball wide.
We would like to wish David all the best in his new venture and thank him for all the hard work he has put in both on and off the pitch, he will be a big loss to the club.
The club will be looking to organise a Presentation Night soon to take the opportunity to thank players, families, friends, sponsors and supporters for backing us during the season – details will be announced soon
Chris Jones powers through for first goal
