Newton Aycliffe FC v Brandon Utd

By Paul McGeary

One goal looked like it was always going to settle this game and the 87th minute provided it, but unfortunately not for the visitors as they went three league games without scoring.
The balance of play suggested Aycliffe were perhaps worthy of a point at least, but their apparent lack of goal threat is costing them dearly.

Defending the slope in the first half Aycliffe never looked threatened, Brandon's band of youngsters hustling and harrassing but the visitors comfortable in possession, especially down the left hand side.
Elliot Gardner had an overhead kick cleared from the line and Chase McMullen should've done better when sent clear by Sean Tarling.

With the slope as their twelfth man in the second period Aycliffe should've capitalised, but had only an Anth Campbell effort to boast. The winger's 50-yard half volley bouncing onto the crossbar with the 'keeper beaten.

A late free-kick, controversial in the eyes of some was awarded and Liam Bromley picked out Ste Richardson's top left hand corner.
Richardson was equal to the effort but as the team in blue struggled to clear, the ball broke to the same player who this time planted a rocket into Richardson's top right hand corner, off the underside of the bar to snatch the points.

Chris Renshaw had a nervy start to his Aycliffe career but by the end of the game was showing what an astute player he is and Gardner once more worked tirelessly without a goal to compliment his hard work. Aycliffe need a break, and some luck in front of goal and they'll start to pick the points up again but for now they can't rely on a resolute back four and goalkeeping unit to provide the points.