Wednesday 27 August 2014

Dunston UTS 2 W. Auckland 1

Gritty Dunston triumph against West...

26th August 2014
Northern League Div 1
Dunston UTS 2 (Coulson 2)
West Auckland 1

Dunston welcome West Auckland for the EBAC Northern League Division 1 game, West have started the league season in a mixed fashion with 2 four nil victories and 2-1defeat to neighbours Bishop Auckland but it more the recent loss of their manager Peter Dixon that is grabbing the highlights, Dixon has led West to two Wembley performances in the last three years and also to high Northern League positions, building a strong squad of players. He will be a hard act to follow and the appointment of current Celtic Nation owner Steve Skinner as temporary manager, is also an action to be monitored. Dunston after a couple of defeats are now on a winning run of three games with one FA Cup and two league games to their account, although the close proximity of the games is taking its toll with niggling injuries to players especially on Saturday when both Steven Shaw and Craig Hodgson picked up knocks, although the availability of Gary Shaw and Jonny Wightman will be welcomed in what promises to be a competitive game if recent history prevails.

 
The game started with both teams vying for control of the midfield and opportunities were restricted until the 10th minute when Francis took a free kick into the Dunston area aimed at the back post, the ball went harmlessly clear of the goal. on 11 Dan Halliday had a similar free kick for Dunston and the ball this time went wide from a Wilson header. A minute later ex Dunston player Pattinson put in a cross which had to be cleared by Coulson, on 15, Briggs had a shot from 18 yards out which went over the bar. After 25 minutes Briggs played a ball in Moffat but the alert Gilhespy recovered and cleared the danger. Two minutes later West took the lead from a long free kick taken by Francis deep into the Dunston area Burrell's attempted header only diverted it over Connell and into the net 1-0 to West. On 30 Briggs again, put in across into the run of Moffatt and Connell did brilliantly to stop it going into the net.
 
On 32 Burrell placed a free kick from the centre circle into the West area to Halliday and his header was deflected for a corner. from the corner taken by Burrell Coulson rouse at the back post to head home the equaliser. The West centre half Galpin was cautioned for continuous dissent after the goal. West retaliated with another Francis free kick which Burrell headed clear. On 40 Moffat forced another save from Connell which rebounded to Richardson who shot which deflected off Halliday and clear of the goal.

On 41 Fenwick chased a long ball into the West area, the West keeper came out but was beaten by the bounce, Fenwick got control but Lowson was back to parry his shot which fell to Wilson whose shot was blocked by a defender. Just before half time on 44 Steven Shaw fed a square ball into the run of Burrell whose shot from 20 yards went just wide of the target. A minute into added on time Burrell put a free kick into the back post were Halliday got up well to head on target, however the referee ruled Halliday had fouled in his attempt. 
Half Time score 1 - 1


 
The second half started as the first as a tussle in midfield and on 52 Kane had the first opportunity to shoot but it was wide of the target, West replied with a free kick on the edge of the Dunston area but the shot by Francis was wide. On 61 Bulford on as substitute for Wilson had a25 yard shot saved by Lowson, dolled a minute later when Fenwick had an 18 yard shot saved. Dunston were gradually getting on top after West had had the better of the game in the first half. On 65, Bulford had a volleyed shot blocked by Wilkinson, the ball went out to Halliday whose return cross just went over the bar at the back post. On 75, Halliday put in another cross which Lowson took well.
 
On 79, Briggs picked up a loose ball and swung a shot come cross, into the area, the ball took a deflection from Wilkinson and out of play. a minute later Burrell played a long ball to Bulford who shot was saved by Lowson. On 81 Burrell took another core which curled into the back post where once again Coulson dispatched a header into the goal past the West defenders on the line for 2-1 to Dunston.  
 
On 85 Bulford was fouled on the edge of the area by Galpin, Bulford took the kick and Lowson did well to save the low driven shot. On 86 at the opposite end Knight had a free kick from 25 yards but the wall did its job and blocked it. as full time approached West set up an assault on the Dunston goal with 3 shots from, Ward, Knight and Francis all on target being blocked by some desperate defending particularly from Halliday who blocked two, 2 minutes into added on time another West free kick was saved by the alert Connell. In the final minutes Halliday played Bulford through but his attempted volley went over the bar after which the referee brought the game to an end. 
 
Final Score  Dunston 2 West Auckland 1

 
West got control in first half and deserved their opening goal, however Dunston were gritty and fought back and got their equaliser possibly against the run of play. in the second half it was Dunston who got control and got their deserved goal with a second superb header from David Coulson again from a Dale Burrell corner. Dunston had to weather a big West push for the equaliser while still producing opportunities for a third goal. In the end it was a valuable victory for Dunston against a strong West side.
 
Dunston Man of the Match: David Coulson who aside from his very good defensive display alongside Luke Gilhespy also got forward to produce 2 great goals which Dunston needed. Good. Performances in the second half from the whole team especially Steven Shaw, Andy Bulford and Dan Halliday.
 
Dunston UTS: Connell, Burrell, Halliday, Shaw (S),Coulson, Gilhespy,  Kane (Wightman 65), Dixon (Cpt), Fenwick, Wilson (Bulford 51), Ormston. Subs not used: Shaw (G), Hodgson, Burns.
 
West Auckland: Lowson, Pattinson, Gibson, Wilkinson, Galpin, Close, Briggs, Francis, Moffat (Laidlaw 45)  (Knight 65), Richardson (Ward 65), Garthwaite. Subs not used: Knight, Byrne, Vipond, Ward, Laidlaw
 
Referee. D. Chapman
Assistants.. K. Howe and M. East.

Match pictures can be viewed here

Report by T.C.

Next game, Saturday 30th, FA Cup, Dunston UTS v Durham City
Sunday 31st Charity Match, kick off 2:00pm

Saturday 23 August 2014

Sunderland RCA 0 Dunston UTS 3

23rd August 2014
Northern League Div 1
Sunderland RCA  0
Dunston UTS 3
(Ormston 10, Fenwick 28, Kane 40)


Dunston travelled to for their first away league fixture against Sunderland RCA in the EBAC Northern League Division 1 fixture with 2 victories in their previous games at Morpeth Town in the FA Cup and Jarrow Roofing in the league. Sunderland however have yet to get a victory this season after losing their FA cup replay to Bishop Auckland in mid week after drawing last weekend 1-1 and losing both the league fixtures. Dunston were without Craggs, Wightman, Harrison and
Gary Shaw so Dale Burrell stepped into the right back slot and Dan Wilson retained his forward position after the midweek victory against Jarrow Roofing.

On a very autumnal day, including heavy rain showers, the game got underway on a pitch looking perfect for a football match. In the first minute Dunston won a corner and then a
Dan Wilson cross was just too high for Nicky Kane in front of goal. On 10 minutes Wilson on the halfway line turned with the ball and proceeded to play the ball to Kane on the left wing who made his way to the box where he returned the ball to Wilson who shot from 18 yards, Carmichael , the ex Dunston keeper could only watch as the ball went past him and hit the inside of the post and back into play straight to the incoming Gary Ormston who side footed his shot into the net for the opening goal for Dunston. RCA were quickly trying to get back into the game as Coe attempted to take on Dan Halliday on the right wing,

Halliday was patient and took his opportunity to dispossess him. On 16 minutes a Coe free kick from 30 yards out was deflected across the Dunston goal and away for a corner. After 22 minutes, Wilson again tantalised the RCA defence and a shot from the right edge of the box was beaten away by Carmichael. On 25, a free kick taken by Stanger for RCA, 30 yards out was deflected off the wall and out for a corner, the corner taken by Stanger was just too good for the incoming RCA forwards. On 28 minutes Dunston play was pulled back, and Dunston who had the advantage were awarded a free kick, Burrell dispatched the free kick into the 6 yard box here Fenwick was able to head home for 2 - 0 to Dunston.


2 minutes later a Halliday corner to the back post was met by Coulson but he was unable direct his header into the net. Carmichael was cautioned for dissent after Wilson won a corner on 34 minutes, the corner taken by Halliday found Gary Ormston at the back post but his header went over the bar.

On 40 minutes
Dale Burrell got in behind the RCA defence and drove a low cross in on goal from a narrow angle, the ball went loose in the 6 yard box and Dixon scrambled the ball to Nicky Kane who shot home from 6 yards for 3 - 0 to Dunston. From the kick off Michael Dixon dived into a challenge and fouled his opposing captain, Wood for which he earned a caution. On 44 minutes Wilson took on 3 players and got to the byline, he pulled his pass back to Nicky Kane whose shot was blocked, Just before half time Wood the RCA no 11 had a shot from 20 yards out which went over the bar.

Half Time Score 0-3

2 minutes into the second half, Fenwick was played in by Burrell but the defenders prevented him from dispatching a shot. On 48 minutes McNab went up the left wing but was matched by Gilhespy who put the ball out for a corner. Within a minute McNab was again attacking the Dunston area but his shot from 30 yards went wide. On 52, Burrell took a free kick to the back post but Ormstons header went wide. 2 minutes later Callan played in Kyle Morris's for RCA but the alert David Coulson managed to retrieve the ball and clear. On 57, a Halliday corner kick was headed wide by Coulson, a minute later, with Dunston looking for a goal to finish off RCA, had a corner from Burrell punched clear by Carmichael, Burrell retrieved and played the ball in again only for Carmichael to again punch clear this time to one of his players and safety.

Within a minute Callen was at the opposite end but his chip from 10 yards went over the bar, a minute later a Long Carmichael clearance caused indecision in the Dunston defence but Coulson again managed to clear the ball to safety. On 61, with RCA on a roll Wood shot but Connell was in position to save, 2 minutes later Wood was on the end of a Coe free kick his header beat Connell but Dixon cleared the Dunston area. In the best attacking move of the game on 70 minutes,
Dan Wilson controlled the ball holding off his defender, he then turned and played in Dixon on the edge of the 18 yard box, Dixon squared to Fenwick whose shot was somehow smothered by the advancing Carmichael and defender. On 72, Wilson took the ball down the left wing and forced a corner. Stanger on 78, played in a corner right across the Dunston goal evading the efforts of his on rushing team mates.

On 87, Morris shot from 10 yards over the bar and just before the final whistle in added on time Burrell played in Dixon who played it square to Fenwick whose shot was again smothered by Carmichael.

Dunston controlled the RCA team in the first half and earned there 3 goal advantage through a hard working team effort lead by the powerful efforts of
Dan Wilson holding up play and bringing into play his fellow team mates. In the second half, RCA put up a much harder fight and edged the half without really putting the Dunston goal at risk. the Dunston side in the second half were too casual, were lacking in challenges and gave away possession of the ball too easily but did just enough to stave off the RCA efforts for another 3 points

Dunston Man of the Match:
Dan Wilson, particularly in the first half was taunting the RCA defence and creating opportunities for his team mates, although he was substituted by Bulford on 77 minutes he was head and shoulders the best player on the pitch. Others worth a mention were Fenwick, Dixon, Burrell and Coulson.

Sunderland RCA: Carmichael, Jury, McNab, Horsman, Brown, Wood (capt) (Morris (C) 50), Coe, Stanger, Morris (K), Callen, Wood Subs not used: Thomson, Guthrie, Halliday (S), Smith


Dunston UTS: Connell, Burrell, Halliday, S, Shaw ( Hodgson on 45 off for Burns 68), Coulson, Gilhespy, Kane, Dixon (Cpt), Fenwick, Wilson (Bulford 76), Ormston.

Referee.. J. Matthews
Assistants.. G. Todd, T. Pattison.

Attendance.. TBC

Next Game.. 26th August, League, Dunston UTS v West Auckland. Kick off 7:30pm.

Report by T.C

Tuesday 19 August 2014

Dunston UTS 1 Jarrow Roofing 0

First league victory for Dunston

Northern League Div 1
19th August 2914
Dunston UTS 1 (Coulson 72)
Jarrow Roofing 0


In the fourth game of the 2014/15 Season in the EBAC Northern League game, Dunston entertain Jarrow Roofing, who have started slowly like Dunston in the league with only one point from their first two fixtures but also had a good victory in the FA Cup extra qualifying round. Jarrow were giving their new signing Peter Leven, an ex pro for Oxford and Scottish side Kilmarnock, his debut whilst were missing two of their summer signings Campbell and McBryde .
 
The Dunston squad was weakened through the sad news of Chris Swailes retirement from the game after 3 good years with Dunston due to health problems. the Dunston side was also missing the rested Andy Bulford for this game but welcomed back centre half David Coulson to retain his partnership in the back four with Luke Gilhespy, Stephen Harrison returns to the bench alongside Jonny Wightman. 

Jarrow started strongly attacking the Dunston goal, putting the defence under pressure but it was not until the 9 minute when Wright got a shot in which just veered off target, Dunston first opportunity came to Halliday on 11 minutes which Marshall had to head clear for a corner. On 12, Shaw took a through ball from Dunston but just ran out of pitch before he could get his cross in. Jarrow replied through Phillips who shot from 20 yards but it went wide.
 
On 15, White for Jarrow had to clear from a Dunston corner to clear his lines. Wright the centre forward from Jarrow again came close as he shot on 19 minutes but Connell was on hand to save. On 20, indecision in the Jarrow defence enabled Fenwick to poke in a shot which was deflected for a corner. Wright again was causing problems at the other end on 22 as he dribbled into the box and shoot but Connell saved well.
 
On 23, Davidson put in a cross to the Dunston goal but Wright placed his effort wide. Dunston replied 2 minutes later when Dan Wilson had a 20 yard shot go over the bar. Jarrow retaliated with Gardiner also shooting over the bar from 20 yards out. On 30 Coulson lost the ball to Kirkup who fed Wright into the box only for to see his effort go wide. After 35, Craggs put in a cross for Wilson who was just unable to convert his effort and the ball went for a goal kick.
 
A minute later Fenwick had a shot from 18 yards deflected for a corner, from the corner taken by Dan Halliday, Gary Ormston headed wide. The entertaining game proceeded to half time with both sides still level. 

Half Time score  0 - 0

Dunston introduced Nicky Kane at halftime to replace Craig Hodgson, but once again it was Jarrow on 45 with the first chance of the half falling to Phillips whose shot was saved by Connell, again a minute laterMarshall had a shot which Connell had to beat away. Dunston got back into the act on 48 as Fenwick had a 25 yard shot saved by Hunter in the Jarrow nets and then Wilson put in a low shot forcing Hunter to save.
 
Dunston settling again to their task forced Hunter to save again a  20 yard Fenwick effort on 52, before Nicky Kane, fed Steven Shaw whose shot went over the bar on 56. A minute later Craggs crossed found Fenwick, whose header went over the bar. Nicky Kane took a quick throw in to Fenwick who also fed Shaw whose effort again went over the bar. On 59 Craggs crossed and David Coulson headed over the bar, Jarrow retaliated but Wright was adjudged to be offside as he broke through the defence.
 
After 68, Dan Wilson was forced to dribble the ball across the edge of the box as the Jarrow defenders made it difficult for him to get a shot in. The goal came on 72 minutes when Harrison put a deep cross to the back post were David Coulson stood strong and placed a header into the net. 1 - 0 to Dunston. Jarrow came back on the offensive and Wright had a shot come cross deflected but Connell was on hand to save. On 76, Fenwick got on the end of a Halliday cross and forced a parried save by Hunter with the defenders clearing the following danger.
 
A minute later Fenwick was denied another opportunity as White recovered to prevent him shooting. On 85 Kane was fed in by Wightman but his shot went over the bar, 3 minutes later Fenwick shot forced Hunter to push the ball over the line for a corner. In added on time Jarrow got a free kick 20 yards out for the chance to equalise but the kick from Davidson went well over the bar. The game ended with the final score 1 - 0 to Dunston.

Dunston  were pressed hard tonight by an industrious Jarrow side who but for a bit of luck on the shooting front could have went ahead, Dunston however led by the probing Dixon and the sure footed Gilhespy at the back created chances for their forwards to keep them in the game up to half time, after a slightly slow start to the second half Dunston got the better chances and  eventually ran out worthy winners and gained their first points of the season. 

Dunston Man of the Match: Luke Gilhespy, once again his reading of the game and control of the Jarrow Roofing forwards prevented them from getting clear opportunities on goal. others worthy of a mention in a good team performance, were Michael Dixon, Dan Wilson, Liam Connell and Scott Fenwick who all were instrumental and industrious throughout the game.

Dunston UTS: Connell, Craggs (Harrison 65), Halliday, Hodgson (Kane 75), Coulson, Gilhespy, Shaw (S), Dixon, Fenwick, Wilson (Wightman 75), Ormston.   
Subs not used: Shaw (G), Burrell.

Jarrow Roofing: Hunter, Johnson (Johnson 84), Davidson, Marshall, Kirkup, White, Leven (Steven 63), Gardiner, Wright, Carson, Phillips (McDonald 80)
Subs not used: Whitehead, Davison

Attendance ..191

Referee:- Rebecca Welch,
Assistants, Will Pare, Ian Freeland

Next Game.. League, 23rd August away to Sunderland RCA, Kick off 3pm

Saturday 16 August 2014

Morpeth Town 0 Dunston UTS 2

FA Cup Extra Preliminary Round,
16th August 2014,
Morpeth Town 0
Dunston UTS 2

Dunston travelled to fellow EBAC Northern League side Morpeth Town for their first game in the 2014-15 FA Cup extra Preliminary Round. Morpeth have had a good start to the season drawing with Benfield and then beating neighbours Ashington in midweek 2 - 1 with ex-Dunston player Michael Chilton on the score sheet.
 
Dunston however, although not playing badly, are still waiting to open their league points account this season despite scoring 3 goals. Dunston have Chris Swailes, Stephen Harrison, David Coulson and Jonny Wightman unavailable. Scott Fenwick starts up front instead of the unlucky Dan Wilson with Danny Craggs and Gary Shaw taking their places in the back four. 
 
 
Dunston got their first corner on 2 minutes but the ball was cleared by the defence,on 4 Scott Fenwick turned his man and ran at the defence, the defence marshalled his move and he was unable to get his shot in, a minute later a long throw in to the centre of goal found Bulford who played the ball over the bar. Morpeth got an opportunity on 7 minutes as Bell shot from 18 yards and Halliday was on hand to block and clear. On 11 minutes, as play moved from penalty box to penalty box , Taylor for Morpeth worked his way into the box and Connell made a good save parrying the ball away.
 
On 13, Fenwick put Bulford through but Bulford was ruled offside, at the other end Fry played in Taylor but he was also just offside, on 20, the industrious Taylor was played in again, his shot went across the Dunston goal to safety. On 21 Fenwick tried a shot  which miscued high over the bar. Dunston were matching the home side in a very competitive midfield encounter and after 26, Scott Fenwick retrieved an over hit cross on the goal line at the edge of the 18 yard box, he turned his man after taking one more touch he shot and Dryden had to make a good save to knock it out of play.
 
Again Morpeth came back and Henderson put in a ball right across the Dunston 6 yard box but Chilton could not convert as he fouled Craggs in his attempts to get close. Dunston had gradually imposed themselves into the match and the hard running play of Fenwick was causing the Morpeth defence to be on their toes, on another run on 37 minutes Fenwick was pulled down in the box for a penalty and he got up himself to play the penalty kick passed the diving Dryden for 1-0 to Dunston.
 
 
Within a minute Dunston should have been two up as Bulford was played in behind the defence but instead of passing to the unmarked Ormston he tried a narrow angle shot across the goal and past the far post. Morpeth rallied and the Dunston defence held solid restricting the Morpeths sides shots on target. On 41, Grieves got in a header which Connell had to save. The first half ended 1 - 0 to Dunston in what had been a fairly evenly matched game.

On 48, Fenwick forced Dryden to make a save and after Craggs put in a curling cross from a corner into the back post which defied everyone.  On 52, Taylor played Chilton in but his shot was lifted over the bar. On 53, Ormston fed Fenwickwho passed to Bulford but he also lifted his shot over the bar. Three minutes later Steven Shaw crossed and a Dixon header was cleared by Hall. Morpeth were trying hard to get the equaliser and Lancaster played a good cross field pass into the run of the on coming Henderson on 57, his cross was cleared by Craggs, again on 58 Craggs had to clear as a Lancaster cross was directed back across goal.
 
On 61, Bell was cautioned for Morpeth after a bad challenge on Hodgson. Morpeth broke through the Dunston back four and Connell forced the attacker wide of his box before Shaw(S) got back to clear. On 65 Gary Shaw put in a good corner to the back post but Dixon was just unable to direct his header under challenge from his marker. On 66 a Henderson free kick for Morpeth was cleared by Hodgson, the Morpeth side returned with a shot which Connell saved confidently. On 67 Dixon played a deft chip behind the Morpeth defence beating the offside trap as Fenwick ran through only to be fouled on the edge of the box. Dunston doubled their lead on 70 minutes as Fenwick headed home from 4 yards from a Craggs free kick. Morpeth introduced a substitute replacing Hall with an attacking midfield player on 71, and then were forced to replace Grieves, their other centre half, who collected a foot injury 2 minutes later.
 
 
As Morpeth battled to get back into the game Taylor was forced by Steven Shaw into the the corner of the field were Dunston were awarded a free kick, after a brief altercation both players were cautioned.  In taking the free kick right near the corner flag Connell had to rush back into his goal and save as Chilton tried a long range chip from 40 yards. On 80 minutes, Halliday made a good clearance from another Lancaster cross. A minute later Steven Shaw played in Fenwick looking for his hat trick but Dryden made a block and Fenwick was then adjudged to have fouled Dryden as he attempted to collect the rebound. Morpeth were again applying pressure but the Dunston defence led by Gilhespy was holding solid and breaking up play.
 
The fresh Wilson was introduced on 80 minutes replacing the hard worked Bulford. Dunston held firm for the final ten minutes with Morpeth only getting 2 opportunities first on 85 when Chilton headed a Taylor cross wide and just before the final whistle Forster played a shot wide of the post.

Dunston got a deserved victory after a hard working gritty performance against a competitive Morpeth side who refused to lie down. The game hinged on two solid defensive displays by both sides, Dunston had the key through Fenwick to score twice but Gilhespy, Halliday and Co. contained the Morpeth strikers and restricted the opportunities against Connells goal. Overall a gritty performance, missing from their last two league games, earned Dunston a place in the next round at home against Durham City on 30th August.

Dunston Man of the Match: Luke Gilhespy whose solid defensive display, leading a changed back four, just shaded the forward play and goals of Scott Fenwick and the
battling midfield performance by captain Michael Dixon

Morpeth Town: Dryden, Henderson, Hiftle, Bell, Hall (Dunn 70), Grieves (Buchanan 73), Taylor (capt), Fry, Forster, Chiltern, Lancaster.
Subs not used: Jewells, Anderson, Walmsley, Waugh, Grant.

Dunston UTS: Connell, Craggs, Shaw (G), Hodgson, Gilhespy, Halliday, Shaw (S), Dixon (capt), Fenwick, Bulford (Wilson  83), Ormston.   
Subs not used: Clark, Kane, Burrell, Burns

Referees, Mr. Scott Taylor, Mr. John Muligan, Mr. Scott Henry

Programme, £1:00, 10 pages, Front Cover View here

Match Pictures Here

Next game is against Jarrow Roofing on Tuesday 19th August 2014 at the Dunston UTS Stadium.

Report by T.C.


Wednesday 13 August 2014

Dunston UTS 2 Shildon 4

Shildon make Dunston pay for errors...

12th August 2014.  -  
Northern League Div 1
Dunston UTS v Shildon 

In the second game of the 2014/15 Season in the EBAC Northern League game, Dunston entertain Shildon, who won their first fixture of the season in good fashion, a 4 - 0 victory at home to Billingham Synthonia. The game between the sides has always been competitive with Shildon getting 4 points last season to Dunstons 1 point, a home draw, both sides have unavailable players but the game still brings plenty of promise.

Shildon startled strong and in the first minute Wood shot from the edge of the box, the ball going across Connells goal and past the post. Dunston built up to the game and on 5 minutes Dan Halliday put in a tantalising cross come shot which went over the keeper hit the back post and into the net for 1 - 0 to Dunston. Shildon came back with a corner from Hudson thatwent across the Dunston goal and was deflected for a corner. Dunston broke immediately from the corner and a Harrison cross was just too strong for Steven Shaw to convert. On 8 minutes Wood again shot from 25 yards but Connell saved easily, two minutes later Halliday fed the ball down the wing to Hodgson who crossed for Bulford under challenge, the ball fell to Shaw whose shot was saved.
 

Shildon replied and but for a last ditch interception by Gilhespy, Connor would have been clear on goal. from the clearance Dan Wilson won the ball in the air, but his lay off to Shaw was just too strong. Shildon retaliated and Harwood picked the ball up in his own half and advanced past 2 tackles before being fouled by Coulson  on the edge of the Dunston box. The free kick taken by Scroggins has deflected over the bar by Connell. After 17, Wood again shot off target wide of the near post. The game was living up to its competitive billing and play flowed from end to end, on 20 Dixon shot from a Halliday free kick into the box was blocked for a corner. The corner taken by Halliday tested Finch at his front post, but he cleared by punching the ball. On 22, Wood for Shildon had a cross deflected for a corner by Gilhespy.
 
On 27, Bulford played in a right wing cross which beat the advancing forwards and went for a throw, Harrison played in a low cross on 28 which was deflected behind the defensive line into Bulfords run but Finch was alert to collect the ball as Bulford pounced. On 30 Harwood crossed in a free kick which was met by Richardson at the back post who headed just over with Connell beaten, 2 minutes later Bulford received a ball but was adjudged offside as Wilson headed down a Halliday free kick. On 34, Shildon got the equaliser as the ball was played across the Dunston area to the unmarked Hudson on the left, his shot was firm and took a slight deflection past the despairing Connell. Dunston replied with some good approach play as Shaw fed Ormston who crossed but it was just too far for Bulford to convert. On 40, Rea forced a full length save, pushing the ball wide of the target. 4 minutes later Wood fed Moore whose shot was slewed past the far post.

Half Time score 1 - 1

Dunston got the first chance of the second half when Wilson was fouled on the edge of the box, Bulford placed the kick just wide of the posts, but Shildon took the lead on 50 minutes as Wood played a ball into the box and after 3 step overs the ball came to Connor who side footed a shot past Connell and into the net. Scroggins for Shildon was lucky only to receive a caution on 51 minutes as he fouled Hodgson. Two minutes later Dixon headed over from a Harrison cross deep into the box. Another 2 minutes and Steven Shaw made a break from his own 18 yard box  which saw him feed the ball to Harrison, he crossed the ball and Jones headed behind to take the pressure off. On 56 a Connell free kick was played to a Ormston who fed Bulford in for a shot which went right across the Shildon goal.
 
 
On 58 Richardson was cautioned for kicking out at Hodgsons ankles. On the hour mark Rae held onto the ball on the edge of the box, he released to Hudson who shot wide of the target. 4 minutes later Rae had a shot which Connell saved On 73, the ball fell to Rea whose shot was deflected past the far post for another corner from this corner taken by Hudson which found Jones at the back post and he headed the ball into the net for 3 -1, 3 minutes later Rae picked up on a loose defensive pass and advanced on goal he laid it off to Hudson who shot home for 4 - 1. On 82 Fenwick on as sub for Wilson gots to the byline and pulled a cross in for Bulford to steer home 4 - 2.
 
 
On 83, Harrison had a header deflected over bar, from the corner the ball fell to Bulford who hammered in a shot which was charged down for a corner. Dunston had been pressing hard to get another goal and spaces were appearing in defence and in added on time Wood had shot which beat Connell and rebounded back into play off the post, within a minute Harrison put in a cross which was diverted clear by Jones before the referee brought the game to an end

Final Score 2 - 4

Dunston played a much improved game against a better team than last Saturday and although credit goes to Shildon, Dunston were in with a chance to get a result out of the game, with a bit of luck they could have scored more at at a time when Shildon may have faltered. However the game was lost by Shildon taking advantage of a Dunston mistakes and Dunston not scoring at the other end, but it gives the opportunity of room for improvement by the coaching staff.

Dunston Man of the Match: Dan Halliday who scored a goal and gave some promising opportunities to his forward players, narrowly followed by Stephen Harrison. Michael Dixon had a good first half but faded slightly in the second, Bulford was useful up front and deserved his goal. All in all a performance to remember and improve on.

Dunston UTS: Connell, Harrison, Halliday (Shaw (G) 85), Hodgson (Wightman 85), Coulson, Gilhespy, Shaw (S), Dixon, Wilson (Fenwick 71), Bulford, Ormston.  
Subs not used: Craggs, Kane.

Shildon: Finch, Harwood, Richardson, Hudson, Craddock, Jones, Moore, Scroggins, Connor (Garvie 79), Wood, Rea (Greulich -Smith 79). Subs not used: Atkin, Rundell, Emms.

Referees.. David Fitzpatrick, Martin Bunting, Andrew Kitchen.

Attendance 254

Match Pictures Click Here

Next Game... FA Cup, 16th August, Morpeth Town (Away) Kick off 3:00pm

Report By T.C

Sunday 10 August 2014

Dunston UTS 1 Marske Utd 3

Organised Marske deny luckless Dunston

9th August 2014.  -  
Northern League Div 1
Dunston UTS 1
Marske United  3

In the opening game of the 2014/15 Season in the EBAC Northern League game Dunston entertain Marske United. Marske finished last season on a high beating Whitley Bay to win the League Cup at St James Park the home of Newcastle United and despite a positive start to the season finishing in 16th position in the league. This season they ended their build up to the season with a game against Spennymoor in the Cleator Cup, which pairs the league champions against the League Cup winners, unfortunately promoted Spennymoor were too strong for them and it ended up 6 - 2 to Spennymoor.


 
Last seasons fixtures between the teams ended with the home sides the victors in two entertaining games. Dunston have had an interesting close season and despite losing last seasons captain Ben Cattenach (retired) and Lee McAndrew (left for Spennymoor) have built up their squad introducing 5 new players Stephen Harrison, David Coulson and Dan Halliday in defence, Craig Hodgson in midfield and Scott Fenwick up front giving competition in all positions of the team. Unfortunately Scott Fenwick is unavailable for the opening game due to suspension, Chris Swailes is still not 100%, Jack Burns injured and Johnny Wightman is also unavailable.

On a perfect looking pitch, a credit to groundsman John Thompson and his helpers, and a perfect sunny day with a cooling breeze brought the promise of a good game.

Dunston kicked off with the breeze behind them and in the 2nd minute Kane laid a ball off to Halliday whose shot was saved, 3 minutes later Kane picked a loose ball just in side the Marske half and ran at the defence  and only a late sliding challenge playing the ball back to Dean,prevented a shot. One minute later Kane again crossed and Bulfords header was tipped over the bar, then Dixon deflected the cross from the corner over the crossbar. On 12 minutes Dan Wilson chased a through ball and did well to get in a cross into Bulford whose flicked shot went wide. Marske were gradually getting into the game but Woodhouse really surprised everyone on 13 minutes as he picked up a loose clearance 18 yards out and unleashed a screaming effort into the far top corner of the net, Dunston were 1 - 0 down after a reasonable start.

 
Wilson on 14 did well to turn in the box and shoot on target but Dean was equal to it and saved. On 18, Davy Coulson flicked a header from a throw in up in the air and then was able to put another header on target which Dean saved. On 21 minutes Marske were awarded a free kick near the side line 40 yards out and Gott the Marske skipper surprised the Dunston side and spectators by playing a direct hit into the near post bottom corner past a startled Connell for 2 -  0 to Marske. Dunston were reeling after controlling the game they had lost two goals without Marske really testing the defence. On 23 Gott took another free kick from a similar position but this time his effort was wide and high of the target. 4 minutes later Owens for Marske tried a half volley shot from 12 yards but it went high. Dunston tried to regain control of the game but the organised Marske defence were resolute and limited their chances, on 39 Bulford fired a 35 yard free kick over the bar before Johnston slid into a challenge in the Dunston area and poked a low shot into the goal for 3 - 0 to Marske. Dunston had another opportunity on 44 minutes as an Ormston dribble into the box created an opening but the stalwart defenders regrouped to block the shot.

Half Time score:   Dunston 0 Marske 3

The second half started with Marske getting an early chance as Owens was played in by Woodhouse but his shot went wide across the goal. Dunston got their first chance on 50 minutes with a Bulford free kick which was saved by Dean. On 54, Owens again won a challenge on the edge of the area but his shot went wide across the Dunston goal. On 57 Harrison had a free kick from 25 yards blocked and cleared and from the long throw in which caused  a panic in the Marske 6 yard area the luckless Dunston side were unable to force the ball home. On 58 Harrison had a shot deflected for a corner, two minutes later Ormston played a neat return pass with Dixon and shot just wide of the near post. Marske were resilient and McDonald on 61 put a shot wide of the Dunston goal.

 
Dunston pushing on hard had an 20 yard effort from Hodgson saved by Dean on 65, but were finding it hard to breakdown the Marske defence. On 77, Bulford was played in but could not turn the ball goal wards, before Owens again had a shot which went wide of the Dunston goal. On 79, Bulford dribbled into the Marske area and his shot come low cross was deflected off Wheatley into the net for an own goal to Dunston, 3 - 1 to Marske, could Dunston get more? Hodgson on 81 had a shot blocked, and on 85 Gary Shaw cross saw Bulford just beaten to the header by the defender. Dunston pressed on in the final minutes and a Craggs fee kick was blocked by the wall before Steven Shaw received a ball from Hodgson but his driven shot was well saved by Dean. in the final minutes deep into added on time Bulford got a header on target form a Craggs cross and then Marske broke through with Woodhouse whose shot was saved by Connell as the final whistle blew. 

Final Score Dunston 1 Marske 3

In summary the game started well for Dunston, but they were surprised by the sharp shooting Woodhouse on 13 minutes and then totally dumbfounded by the long range free kick by Gott which knocked the heart out of their performance, the third Marske goal was another kick in the teeth as they tried to regain their composure. the second half was all Dunston but they were unable to break down the organised defence of Marske and when they did, Dean was on hand to save on all but one occasion. Dunston possibly deserved more but Marske took their chances well.

Dunston Man of the Match: On difficult day for forwards Dan Wilson stood up to the challenge against the compact Marske defence to earn the award but he lacked support on the second ball play.

 
Dunston UTS: Connell, Harrison, Halliday (Craggs 86), Hodgson, Gilhespy, Coulson, Ormston, Dixon (Cpt) (Shaw (G) 69), Wilson, Bulford, Kane (Shaw(S) 55).    
Subs not used: Clark, Burrell

Marske United: Dean, Hillerby, O'Sullivan, Johnston, Wheatley, Myers, McDonald, Gott, Woodhouse, Owens (Johnson 82), Riley (Butterworth 64).    Subs not used: Gamble, Collins, Hollingsworth.

Referees : S. Sugden, M. Andrews, M. Gatiss

Attendance, 216

Click here for match pictures.
 
Next Game.. 12th August, Dunston UTS v Shildon, Kick Off 7:30pm

Report by T.C