Saturday 26 September 2015

Dunston give away two more points..

26th September 2015
Northern League Div 1
West Allotment Celtic 2
Dunston UTS 2 (Burrell, Pearson)

Dunston travelled again to Blue Flames ground at the Benton to play West Allotment in the EBAC Northern League. Allotment have not been faring well  and are currently in a relegation struggle while Dunston are in the top 6 and after a very positive display last Tuesday  against Shildon which they lost 1-0 due to rash moment by Connell in the 18 yard box which gifted a penalty to Shildon which was duly dispatched. Manager Billy Irwin had to make changes as Dan Halliday (injury), Briggs ( away to University) and Francis (holiday) were all not available but Burrell returned to fill one spot, while a recall for Martindale and a reshuffle along the defence saw Gilhespy move out to left back and Fisher filled the void starting on the right wing.




Dunston got off to an ideal start and took the lead after 3 minutes with a 35 yard drive straight into the net. Allotment rallied and on 12, Pocklington forced Connell to collect a pull back from the by-line and relieve the situation, on 19, Henderson shot wide after a corner had been partially cleared by Dunston. On 19 a Pocklington 20 yard free kick was bent around the Dunson wall and just wide of Connells far post.

Dunston were struggling to find their last games rhythm but on 22 Burrell again hit a shot only this time it went wide of the post. 3 minutes later Richardson stepped over a Morien Pass and the ball went to Burrell who gain shot just wide.

After 30, Smith won a challenge and the ball and travelled into the Allotment box, his shot was deflected wide of the target, 4 minutes later Fisher played in to Richardson whose shot was deflected for a corner, within a minute a Fisher cross was met by Morien, with Richardson waiting behind, his header went wide on to Smith whose turning volleyed shot went over the bar. Allotment had 2 opportunities to score just before half time as Connell saved from Pearson and then another Pocklington free kick was just unable to be connected by Lee.

Half Time West Allotment 0 Dunston 1



Allotment had the first opportunity in the second half as Connell had to collect a Pocklington cross, before Michael Pearson crossed, and a Morien header was deflected wide, again a minute later Pearson crossed and Morien headed wide of the far post. Allotment replied with a Kallis cross being headed over, 2 minutes later a deep Kallis crossed again and a Lee header went back across the Dunston goal and past the far post.  

Dunston replied with Thear shooting over the bar from 25 yards. On 65, Burrell made space with a well-controlled turn and shot on target which was blocked. On 69 a back pedalling Wilkinson slipped and let in Pearson for Allotment who poked a shot past Connell only to see it strike the post and bounce back to Connells’ arms. After this scare Dunston doubled their lead as Thear worked a pass across to Michael Pearson in the centre of goal who shot past Wells on the Allotment line, 2- 0 to Dunston



0n 77 Richardson put a cross into the Allotment box which Wells claimed. On 81 minutes, loose play by Smith meant a rash challenge from Burrell gave Allotments a free kick 22 yards out, Pearson for Allotments took the kick and placed it in the far corner of the Dunston net 2-1 to Dunston, within a minute Allotment were level as slack play outside of the box and a soft back pass towards Connell resulted in Pearson poncing on the ball rounding Connell and putting the ball in the net 2-2.

Dunston tried to regain the lead on 88 as Richardson played the ball through to Morien who was tackled as he was waiting to shoot, then again a minute later Richardson played through to Burrell whose first time shot went wide of the post.

As the game went into added on time Pearson crossed a ball into the area which was collected by Wells and 2 minutes later Richardson placed a free kick into the back post and Wilkinson failed to direct his header on target, within a minute another Richardson free kick was challenged by Morien and Dobson was forced to clear over his own cross bar, from the corner Martindale at the back post volleyed the ball wide of the target.

Final Score: West Allotment 2 Dunston UTS 2

After the Lord Mayors show this was a very different performance by Dunston who although leading the game for 80 minutes, while not playing too well, let the result slip through foolish errors in defence that were of their own making and could and should have been sorted by the midfield and defence. To lose one goal through an error should had the team on the alert but then to lose another within a minute was like committing suicide. Thankfully they held on to the draw and could have got a winner but they should never have been in this situation. This was a very poor team performance leaving players a lot to think about and plenty to work on for future games.

Dunston’s Man of the Match: Michael Pearson – one of the highlight of Dunston’s performance as he defended well and joined up on several occasions to provide crosses into the West Allotment area, he took his goal well after receiving a ball in the six yard box from Liam Thear

West Allotment: Wells, Kallis, Seyer, Dunn, Dobson, Deagle, Keenan (Quine 66), Henderson, Lee (Scott 65), Pearson, Pocklington (Parkinson 76). Subs not used: Mullen, Douglas

Dunston UTS: Connell, Pearson, Gilhespy, Smith, Wilkinson, Martindale, Fisher, Burrell, Richardson, Morien, Thear (Dixon 75) Subs not used: Clark, Halliday, Hodgson

Referee, S. Taylor  Assitants, R. Halliday and K. Stevenson

Match Pictures.. Can be viewed here

Report By. T.C.
 
Next Home Game. EBAC Northern League - Dunston UTS vs Consett on Saturday 17th September 2015 3:00pm KO







Wednesday 23 September 2015

Dunston work hard and then sucker punched

22nd September 2015
EBAC Northern League Division 1
Dunston UTS  0 

Shildon  1

Dunston welcomed Shildon to the Dunston UTS Stadium for the EBAC Northern League Division 1 game. Shildon have had a good start to the season and are currently in Top position although clubs below them have games in hand. Manager Billy Irwin makes changes from Saturdays win as Halliday and Smith return from injuries, but Burrell is still on holiday.

Shildon started brighter and after 5 minutes got a corner which Connell collected, Dunston replied with an interchange between Morien, Thear and Richardson which broke down as Morien strayed off side. Another Shildon corner on 7 minutes was cleared and again Dunston broke with Richardson crossing the park to Thear, who advanced into the area and was strongly tackled, Thear went over but no penalty award was given. The game was flowing from end to end with both defences holding firm.

 
On 12, a Francis cross was cleared as far as Thear whose shot was blocked and bounced easily to Graham. 2 minutes later Richardson crossed and Briggs bravely went in for a header, on target but Graham collected, receiving a bang for this efforts. On 15 Morien beat one defender but as he shot it was blocked and Graham collected, a minute later Francis played a ball through to Briggs sending him clear, Briggs crossed behind Richardson instead of shooting on target and the move broke down.
 
A minute later Pearson crossed and Richardson headed over the bar. On 18, a Halliday free kick from the halfway line went across the Shildon goal and out of play. On 20 Francis raced through the Shildon defence but was unable to release his shot on target, a minute later a Pearson shot struck a defender and Graham was relieved to see the ball go safely past his near post, from the corner by Francis to the back post was only just cleared as Morien attacked. On 26, Francis tried a shot from 18 yards but watched as it cleared the bar, 2 minutes later Briggs went down the right wing beat his defender but was quickly challenged preventing his shot.
 
On 30 Shildon applied pressure on the Dunston defence but a clearing header by Pearson was good relief. On 33, Briggs again raced at the Shildon defence and was only prevented from shooting by a good late challenge by Ellison putting it out for a corner. A minute later Richardson crossed and the attempted clearance fell to Francis who was only able to poke a shot straight at Graham. On 36, Briggs applied a powerful swerving shot with the outside of his right foot which was only saved one handed by Graham diving to his right, 3 minutes later Briggs was fouled again by Ellison near the by-line and Francis’s free kick was headed over at the back post by Wilkinson.
 
On 42 Wilkinson made a defensive clearance from a Shildon corner before Thear went on a run at the Shildon defence, before passing to Morien whose shot was deflected for a corner. After good first half by Dunston, Shildon were fortunate to find the half time score still level at 0-0



After the interval both sides had to wait for the officials to start the game and it was Dunston who got the first chance as on 49, Francis put in free kick which Morien met and shot was deflected and went just over the bar, from the corner Richardson headed inches over the bar. Shildon replied with a shot by Wood which was cleared by Gilhespy, Wood again had another shot on 52 which was blocked and went out for a corner. At the other end on 54 Richardson and Thear combined before Thear had a shot which was blocked.
 
On 55, Shildon almost took the lead except for a good double save by Connell first from Wood and then from Gruelich-Smith at opposite ends of his goal. On 56 Connell collected a Shildon free kick into his area before Pearson on 58 crossed and Morien applied a header which struck the post, but the referee adjudged he had pushed the backing on defender. On 59 Groves broke on the right wing, Halliday was his equal and blocked his cross into the area before Briggs played across right across the Shildon goal and out of play. On 65, Thear was fouled 20 yards out Thear recovered to take the kick which was blocked by a 5 man wall much to Gruelich-Smith stomach, the rebound fell to Thear who shot wide.
 
On 67 Shildons’ Gruelich-Smith fed Robson who shot over the bar before Smith fed Thear at the opposite end, which was also shot over the bar. 2 minutes later Shildon were down to 10 men as Wood was sent off after disagreeing voraciously with the referee’s decision not to award a penalty as Connell challenged Robson. Dunston applied their advantage of the extra man and on 74 a move between Richardson and Morien only broke down through a timely challenge cutting out a Richardson pass.
 
On 76 Briggs let loose a shot after a run into the Shildon area from the halfway line, which Graham saved. On 84 a ball out from the Shildon area was played to Smith 20 yards out his shot beat all and struck the bottom of the left hand post and cleared the goal. On 85 Shildon got a rare chance as, just on, substitute Harwood got a head to a long free kick which Connell collected.


 
On 87 after a poor defensive pass Connell cleared as Fryatt raced in on him, with the ball up past the halfway line the referee saw that Fryatt and Connell were continuing their discussion and Connell was seen to push Fryatt, The referee stopped play and awarded a penalty and after a discussion with his assistant cautioned Connell. From the resulting penalty Hudson placed the ball as Connell dived in the opposite direction for 1-0 to Shildon which was more than they deserved. Dunston applied the pressure in the closing minutes and on 89 Briggs shot over the bar, with added time being played Richardson had a shot parried clear by Graham before the referee called time up.

Dunston controlled the game for at least 70 % of the game reducing Shildon to a rare opportunity in their box, but did not have the finishing touch despite having many shots on target and very close to the target. A rash moment for Connell on 87 minutes however put this game to bed as Shildon gratefully accepted the opportunity to score from a penalty awarded for a silly push in the area when the ball was in the Shildon half, no question about the award but the consequences were dire for the Dunston players who had worked their socks off for the full 90 minutes and reduced Shildon to also rans, but that’s Football and Life, as something can always happen to change the result of the game

Final Score: Dunston UTS 0  Shildon 1

Dunston’s Man of the Match: Dan Smith – Dan worked hard in midfield giving support both in defence and attack and challenging hard in midfield. On a night as the whole team performances were superb and only marred by one stupid action.

Dunston UTS: Connell, Pearson, Halliday, Smith, Wilkinson, Gilhespy, Briggs, Francis, Richardson, Morien Thear (Fisher 78). Subs not used: Clark, Dixon, Martindale, Hodgson.

Shildon: Graham, Groves (Wing 90) Ellison, Moore, Brown, Jones, Robson, Hudson, Connor (Fryatt 78), Wood, Gruelich-Smith (Harwood 84). Subs not used Rae, Davis.

Attendance 254.

Match Pictures.. Can be viewed here >>

Referee, D.Fitzpatrick, Assisitants, S. Ross, M. Burrows.

Report by T.C.

Next Home Game.
EBAC Northern League - Dunston UTS vs Consett on Saturday 17th October 2015 3:00 KO

 

Saturday 19 September 2015

Dunston too strong for Jarrow FC

19th September 2015
Durham County Challenge Cup Round 1
Jarrow FC 1

Dunston UTS 7

Dunston travelled to Wearside League side Jarrow FC in the Preliminary Round tie of
the Durham County Challenge Cup with the winners of the tie having a home game against Sunderland RCA. Jarrow are currently in good form and have only lost one league game this season and play on on neat little ground at the rear of Perth Green Community Centre situated between John Reid Road and the A19.

The Jarrow side is without their main strike force to day while Dunston are without Dale Burrell who is at a wedding and Halliday and Smith who are both carrying slight injuries and Fisher who was not signed on within the 7 day period, but are bolstered by the the return of Stephen Harrison.

The game started with Jarrow attempting to push Dunston back, but Dunston were soon in their stride and on 2 minutes took the lead as Morien played through to Briggs who placed a shot into the bottom left corner of the net.




Two minutes later it was 2‐0 as Gilhespy overlapped on the left wing and received from Francis his cross found Morien who had only to tap the ball into the net. Plucky Jarrow responded with Alsop beating the offside with a run only for Connell to collect. On 8, Briggs hit the post with a great drive from 30 yards out and 3 minutes later Pearson shot over the bar from 20 yards out.

On 14 Gilhespy collected a ball on The halfway line and advanced towards the box before shooting past the near post from 25 yards out. On 16, Francis combined with Morien that ended in a Francis Chip over the keeper that bounced on the bar and out of play. On 24, Thear got on the score sheet as he spectacularly volleyed a Pearson cross to the front post into the net, this was followed a minute later by a Morien. Shot from 18 yards which Donnelly tipped over the bar dividing to his right.

Jarrow to their credit were trying hard and Kane tried to lob Connell only to see his effort go over the bar. On 27 it was 4 nil as at hear won a ball in the Jarrow box played it to Richardson who in turn played it to Morien who side footed the ball into the net. On 30, Richardson was fouled right on the edge of the box and the resulting free kick was blasted into the rigid Jarrow wall and rebounded to safety.



On 34 Trosh beat Pearson and tried to chip Connell only to see his effort go over the bar. On 39 Briggs played in a great cross which Richardson headed well on target but again Donnelly saved well. On 41, Thear ran across the 18 yard box with the ball found space and shot into the far corner of the net or his second and Dunston's fifth goal of the game. On 43, Pearson fed the ball into Richardson who shot on target only to see his effort blocked, before Thear fed a ball into Morien who turned into space and shot home a goal from 10 yards out for his second hat‐trick of the season and 6‐0 to Dunston.

Half time score Jarrow FC 0 Dunston 6

Manager Billy Irwin changed Dixon for Morien at half time but it was Jarrow who got the first effort in the second half as Kane shot across goal following an Oliver Bone cross on 48, on 52 Donnelly was called into action as Briggs played a good ball into the box.

On 58, Kane beat the offside trap and shot low into the near post past Connel for
what proved to be a consolation goal to Jarrow. On 63 Briggs again played in a good low cross which was cleared at the second attempt before Pearson drove into the Jarrow box with the ball and then drove a powerful shot past Donnelly inside the near post for 7‐1 to Dunston. On 67, Francis played in a free kick Richardson headed down to ground but it bounced up and over the bar.



On 70, Thear released a shot from 35 yards out but Donnelly saved, before Pearson played in Briggs whose cross shot went just over the bar. On 73, Hodgson headed goal‐wards from a Francis corner to the back post only for Donnelly to save, before Hodgson laid off to Briggs whose shot from 18 yards out was saved. On 76 a Hodgson cross was chested down by Dixon to Briggs whose shot was blocked.

On 81, Dixon blocked a clearance and the ball rebounded past the post. 3 minutes later Briggs unleashed a shot from 18 yards which the keeper saved before Dixon collected in the 6 yard box, but before he could shoot was bundled to the floor for a undisputed penalty, Francis took the kick and Donnelly diving to his left saved.

On 87 the luckless Richardson raced into the 18 yard box and unleashed a shot which crashed back off the cross bar to Briggs who headed wide. In the closing minutes Jarrow were bombarded with shots as Briggs shot was blocked and rebounded to Francis whose shot was blocked and rebounded to Richardson whose shot was saved by Donnelly.

Full Time Score. Jarrow FC 1 Dunston UTS 7

Dunston had this game. Won in the first half but to Jarrows credit they prevented a
land slide in the second half as fitness showed through, and but for Donnelly's good saves and Richardson's bad luck in front of goal it could have been more than 10. Jarrow however never gave in and deserved their luck..

Dunston Man of the Match: Liam Thear ‐ Liam put in a workman like performance
and his challenges an passes inside the box were instrumental in a lot of Dunston's goals and approach play. Morien took his goals well, and Richardson despite not getting on the score sheet had some great efforts. This was a reasonable performance against a plucky side, without Dunston being really stretched.

Jarrow FC: Donnelly, Bone O (Moore 55), Burrell, Bone A, Hall, Allan, Pain,
Trosh,Simpson (Miroshmichenko 28), Kane, Alsop (Little 68).Subs not used: Moore, Wilkinson.

Dunston UTS: Connell (Clark 85), Pearson, Gilhespy, Hodgson, Wilkinson 
(Harrison 58), Martindale, Briggs, Francis, Morien (Dixon 45), Thear.

Match Pictures Can be viewed here

Match report by T.C

Dunston's next home game vs Shildon on Tuesday 22 September 2015 KO 7:30 pm


Wednesday 16 September 2015

Benfield make Dunston work hard for victory

15th September 2015
EBAC Northern League Division 1
Dunston UTS 4

Newcastle Benfield 2

Dunston welcomed Newcastle Benfield to the Dunston UTS Stadium for the EBAC Northern League Division 1 game. Dunston need to recollect and get a victory and concentrate on their domestic league programme after a disastrous 5-2 defeat at Kendal Town in the FA Cup last Saturday despite controlling the first hour of the game. Benfield have not started the season well but have 2 wins and 2 draws from their opening fixtures but also had a home defeat against Bishop Auckland at the weekend. 
 
Manager Billy Irwin was very disappointed at Dunston’s’ performance at Kendal and will surely have some words to his team to improve on the 4 wins and 2 draws start to the season. Dixon and new signing Matty Fisher, from Washington, are available for selection.

Both Sides steadily worked their way into the game and after some half attempts Briggs on 4 minutes gave Dunston a much needed pick up as he ran through the Benfield defence onto a Halliday through ball and beat two players to poke a shot into the net past Cook 1- 0 to UTS. A minute later Morien put in a good cross but no-one was able to apply a finish, on 9, Morien headed wide from a Briggs cross, before Morien played in a low cross which Benfield keeper Cook collected.


 
Benfield steadily came into the game and on 12 Jones shot high and wide from 20 yards out. Dunston replied with Halliday laying off to Morien who shot wide of the target from 20 yards out. At the other end Brayson also shot wide from 20 yards out. Burrell back in his midfield role ran into the Benfield area and crossed to Pearson who was just unable to redirect his header on 16. A minute later Morien again played a one two with Richardson before shooting forcing Cook to one handed push the ball over the bar. Benfield working hard replied with Brayson dribbling into the box but shooting wide of the near post.
 
Brayson 4 minutes later turned and made space in the box, his shot forced Connell to save one handed before the ball was cleared. On 22 Scott went down the right wing for Benfield and tried to lob Connell only to see his effort go over the bar. A minute later in a good spell for Benfield Scorgie laid a ball off to Walker whose shot was blocked, then Brayson, 14 yards out, forced a save from a diving Connell on 27. Dunston got back in control on 33 as Briggs made a good run down the right and crossed but it was blocled and cleared, a minute later Burrell crossed towards Richardson but he was unable to apply direction on his effort.
 
On 34, a Halliday free kick was headed on by Richardson to Morien who returned it to Richardson whose 10 yard shot was blocked. Benfield cooled the Dunston spirit on 36 as a Convery corner was played into Slaughter who first touch half volleyed the ball home from 6 yards out, for 1-1. Dunston tried to regain their lead on 38 as Smith received a ball from Richardson, beat his marker before shooting just wide of the near post. On 40 minutes a Burrell cross was cleared before Gilhespy at the opposite end had to clear a Benfield cross for a corner

Half Time Score: 1-1
 
Dunston came out rejuvenated in the second half and were on the attack on 47 as Briggs played in a cross to the back post, Dan Smith bravely went in and headed the ball goalwards for Cook to Save receiving a blow to the head for his reward. On 49 Morien played into Richardson whose shot was blocked the rebound came back to him but his second effort was just past the far post.


 
A minute later Richardson chased a through ball into the Benfield box, but Cook was alert and came out to collect. In reply Scorgie also played a through ball which Connell came out smartly to collect and avert danger. On 55, Briggs was played in by Smith but his shot was saved by a diving Cook. On 57 Morien collected a ball 15 yards from goal and let loose a screaming volley past Cook and into the far corner of the Benfield net, 2-1 to UTS. 2 minutes later Richardson headed goalwards after Cook had failed to punch clear but Lancaster cleared off the line. On 65 Smith played in a good ball to Morien who in turn crossed to Richardson in front of goal 6 yards out who headed into the Benfield net for 3-1.
 
Dunston seemed to get complacent again as Benfield won a corner on 69 and failed to react to the quickly taken cross by Pilatos and an unmarked Hardy headed home from 4 yards out. On 73 Connell had to save a Walker effort from 18 yards out. Dunston regained the two goal advantage on 78, as Francis received a ball 20 yards out from Richardson and his chipped shot with back spin nestled in the Benfield net for 4-2.

 
Dunston then regained control in midfield and on 85 Halliday shot wide from 30 yards out. Benfield kept going to the end and on 89 as Turnbull crossed and Jones at the back post was just unable to direct his header, Dunston replied with a Thear cross into Francis who played to Richardson  who shot over the bar and then a Richardson cross ball pass to Francis who was just unable to control and direct his effort before the Referee blew the final whistle

Final Score: Dunston UTS 4  Newcastle Benfield 2

A nervous Dunston side worked hard to get into the game and helped by an early goal by Briggs which helped them settle but their final touch on the ball seemed to be letting them down, the Benfield equaliser on 36 minutes came as a shot in the arm after a lack lustre period in midfield. In the second half an opportunist goal by Morien on 57, gave them a lift followed by a well worked move ending in Richardsons header on 65. Dunston appeared to relax and again were reminded as an unchallenged Hardy headed home a Pilatos cross. A piece of Francis magic with a superb chip ended the scoring and giving Dunston a hard worked victory against a gallant Benfield side.

Dunston’s Man of the Match: Dan Smith – Dan worked hard in midfield giving support both in defence and attack. On a night as performances were marred by poor final ball giving away possession, Briggs, Burrell, Pearson and Halliday gave able support while Morien had to work hard for his efforts, alongside Richardson who were rewarded by scoring.

Dunston UTS: Connell, Pearson, Halliday, Burrell, Wilkinson, Gilhespy, Smith (Thear 66), Francis, Richardson, Morien (Dixon 80), Briggs (Fisher 82) Subs not used: Hodgson. Clark,

Newcastle Benfield: Cook, Convery, Lancaster, Slaughter, Turnbull, Paterson, Scott (Pilatos 54), Scorgie (Addison 68), Brayson ( Hardy 65), Walker, Jones. Subs not used Busby, McEwan.


Referee, Simon Clayton, Assistants, Jonathan Wood and Christopher Newton.

Attendance 176

Match Pictures Can be viewed here

Report by T.C.

Next Home Game.
EBAC Northern League - Dunston UTS vs Shildon on Saturday 22nd September 2015 7:30pm KO

Saturday 12 September 2015

Dunston collapse to exit FA Cup..

Kendal Town 5
Dunston UTS 2
FA Cup 1st Qualifying Round
12 September 2015

Dunston travel across to Cumbria for their 3rd game in the FA cup to play Kendal Town. Kendal are unbeaten in their league this season beating North Shields in the last round after a replay by 2-1.

Kendal started well and an indecision by Halliday had to be cleared to safety by Gilhespy, Dunston were soon in the action and on 7, Briiggs played in to Francis who stepped over and Richardson dinged a ball into Francis's run unfortunately the ball was then covered out of play by a defender. A minute later, a Burrell cross had to be claimed by Whiteside and then a smith free kick to Francis was shot on target and deflected for a corner.

On 10 a free kick in to the Dunston area was headed was deflected and Connell collected. A minute later Kendal took the lead as Bailey shot from 30 yards out and the ball slipped under the diving Connell and into the net, 1-0 to Kendal. On 14, Connington ran from the half way line with the ball, chased by Wilkinson as Connington shaped to shoot, Wilkinson touched ball much to his surprise, a minute later Briggs crossed into the near post where Francis was just unable to take control. 
 
Three minutes later, Forbes handled the ball 20 yards out, Francis took the free kick which was blocked and cleared. 2 minutes later Smith pounced on a rebound and shot into the bottom right hand corner of the net for the equaliser. Dunston were now back to work playing good football and pushing Kendal back.

On 21, Briggs broke through on the right wing only to be fouled 25 yards out, the free kick was played short to Richardson who returned it to Francis who shot wide of the near post. 2 minutes later a low Burrell cross was beaten out by Whiteside and then cleared. On 25 good interplay by Briggs and Richardson resulted in a corner, Halliday's corner was palmed unconvincingly by Whiteside.
 
Kendal were relying on long ball clearances and on 28, substitute Helliwell played in a cross which was taken by Connell. Dunston were on top and on 34, Brigg raced into the box but was beaten by a good desperate tackle by Forbes and the ball went for a corner. 3 minutes later Burrell shot over the bar from 20 yards out, and the a minute later Briggs played a low cross into Francis with only the keeper to beat, the keeper spread his body well and somehow managed to block Francis's shot, a minute later Francis chased a ball to the byline and played in a low cross which was cleared for a corner.

On 40 Richardson was played into the box and his shot was deflected for a corner. Dunston were now on top but could not get the telling finish as the game approached half time Connington broke fast again playing the ball in to Wilson who passed to the incoming Carney who side footed a shot past Connell and Kendal were astonishingly ahead again 2-1. Before the whistle Aspin for Kendal played in a cross for Connington but Connell collected.

Half Time Score: 2-1

The second half started with Dunston camped in the Kendal half, but were unable to break down the stubborn defence, however on 46, Gilhespy had to bravely block a shot the rebound went to Connington who shot wide, on 47, Francis played Briggs into the box were Briggs slid a shot past Whiteside for the equaliser. On 50 Wilson tried to cross into the Dunston area but it was well blocked, 5 minutes later Francis played in a free kick, Richardson at the back post got in a header which just went wide.

Kendal came back and Aspin played a chip into the area but Connell was alert and collected. On 58 Wilkins played a ball into Connington but Wilkinson recovered to head back to Connell. On 59 Connington got a header in from a cross by Wilkins which was saved by Connell.
 
On 62, Connington proving to be a handful was able to turn 10 yards out creating space to enable him to shoot into the bottom right hand corner of Connell's net 3-2 to Kendal. On 67 Connington again had a 25 yard shot go just wide of the near post, again on 70, Connington was played in by Wilson this time the shot went wide of the far post.

Dunston were trying to regain control but the spark was in Kendals play as again a long ball was played the 18 yard box with both Connington and the offside Wilkins chasing, Connington collected and played across the box to Wilkins who side footed past Connell for 4-2 to Kendal, again on 75, Connington got in a cross but there was no Forwards in the box.

Then on 76, Connington got another as the ball was played along the 18 yard box from where Connington applied a shot into the far corner of the net. Dunston tried to rally but Kendals tactics resulted in a broken period of play, on 85 Richardson chased a ball down to the by-­‐line got in across which was claimed by Whiteside. On 89, Francis crossed from the right wing but it was cleared and then in added on time Richardson tried to chip the stranded Whiteside from 20 yards only for the ball to go just over the bar.

Full Time Score: Kendal Town 5 Dunston UTS 2

Dunston completely controlled the first half playing good approach football, while Kendal were limited to fast break away from a long ball, yet somehow found themselves two goals to one down at half time, after the break Dunston got their deserved equaliser but instead of pushing on they became complacent and allowed Kendal to attack down the right wing playing balls into a strong centre forward in Connington who took advantage of the situation and set up Kendals victory,

The Dunston side seemed to just stop playing, whether due to travel legs or whatever's they we're just not good enough to stop the Kendal push and paid expensively for their errors and lack of marking losing 3 goals in a fifteen minute spell after scoring an early goal in the second half to equalise.

The Kendal side took advantage of the lack lustre spell and in the end deserved their passage into the next round, while Dunston will have to pick up the pieces and concentrate on their league football until the FA Vase comes round.

Dunston Man of the Match: Matty Briggs for his first half performance, on the right wing, which should have been good enough to beat Kendal, like most of the side the second half it was totally different game after he had scored a good equalising second Dunston goal.

Kendal Town: Whiteside, Aspin, Thomas (Clark Z 76), Carney, Forbes, Smalley, Wilkins, Bailey, Connerton, Kilifin (Helliwell 11), Wilson, Subs not used: Noblet, Henry, Kitchen.

Dunston UTS: Connell, Burrell, Halliday, Hodgson, Wilkinson, Gilhespy, Briggs, Francis, Richardson, Smith, Thear (Morien 70).  Subs not used: Clark , Bulford, Pearson.

Attendance.. 240

Referee. Iain Siddall, Assistants.. Derek Brannick and Janzib Rigby.

Next Home Game -Newcastle Benfield, KO 7:30 PM 15 September 2015 EBAC Northern League Div 1
 
Report by T.C.

Wednesday 9 September 2015

Dunston overpower Durham and score 3

8th September 2015
Durham City 0
Dunston UTS 3
Ebac Northern League Division 1


Dunston on their travels again on the short distance down the A1 to the Durham City 
all weather pitch. Durham have had a reasonable start to their season and if they  won could move above Dunston by a point so a competitive game was expected especially with Durham having the advantage of their experience of the all weather pitch.

Dunston again have injury issues, work and holidays making Morien, Clark and Dixon not available for selection, but welcomed Michael Pearson back from holiday on the bench. Dunston still named a strong side to start the game.

Durham came out of the starting blocks and they won a corner on 2 minutes which was played across the goal and past the far post, Dunston eased their way into the game and on 6 Francis played in Briggs who crossed and the fortunate Wilkinson saw his deflection hit goalkeeper Flynn on the shoulder before it was cleared, a minute later Smith had a shot from 20 yards which Flynn saved and the on 9 Smith had a shot reflected wide.


On 10 Dunston scored after Wilkinson poked a loose bouncing ball into the net after Hodgson met and headed a Francis corner at the back post. Durham recovered on 14 as Patton picked up a chipped forward ball and tried to chip Connell but Connell was equal to it, on 18, a Durham attack was foiled by a Gilhespy header and the Durham No 8 Bakhiti was unable to cross the ball back across goal.

On 21, Fairley took a free kick but Lynch was unable to make contact at the back post. On 23 Briggs blocked a Bakhiti shot deflecting it for a corner.

Dunston rallied on 28 as Briggs went down the right wing and crossed to Francis who shot wide, a minute later Richardson played a ball into Francis whose shot was well saved by Flynn.

Dunston were well into the game now as Durham resorted to the long, hopeful ball upto Patton, on 37 Thear made a great tackle in the area and then the rebounded shot went for a corner. Dunston looked to be 2 goals up as Francis followed in a defensive error between Flynn and Wardle his outside of the right foot shot at the empty goal hit the post.

Half Time score 1‐0 to Dunston.

Dunston were straight on the attack from the kick off as Briggs on the right shot a
cross the Durham goal and just wide of the far post. A minute later, Briggs went close again before Bakhiti hit a shot which Halliday watched go safely out of play. On 52, Bakhiti headed over the bar from a Patton cross. On 57, Thear had a shot from 20 yards go wide of the near post.

Two minutes later Francis fed a ball into Briggs who steered a shot past Flynn and into the net for 2‐0 to Dunston. Well on top now Dunston were playing some good football and on 64 Richardson got through and poked a shot wide of the far post. On 72, Halliday played a cross field diagonal free kick across to Thear whose low cross was saved by Flynn. On 76 Wardle for Durham was sent off for a foul on Richardson as he was the last man and prevented a goal scoring opportunity.

The free kick taken by Thear was something special as it was struck past the wall and into the top right hand corner of the net off the cross bar giving Flynn no chance and Dunston a 3‐0 lead. With a comfortable lead and an extra man Dunston, built up the pressure but were unable to break through although Richardson 78 headed over and then Briggs shot rebounded to Francis whose shot was also blocked on 85.

Final Score Durham City 0 Dunston UTS 3

Dunston played very well on the all weather surface after settling down to the pace of the game, the early goal, lacking in previous games ensured the confidence of the side.


Durham resorted to the long ball upto their forwards but met a resolute Dunston defence despite the odd misjudged bounce. Dunston played their best football of the season playing in balanced formation with Francis having a roaming role up front.

Dunston Man of the Match: Matty Briggs, Matty recovered his preseason form and gave an outlet on the wing, his work rate up and down the field helping his defence and orwards all game. However this was a good team performance with all players having good games and Connell rarely called into action.

Durham City: Fynn, Munro, Allen, Wilkinson, Wardle, Harley (Okus 70), Bakhiti, Patton,
Wallace (Shaw 63), Lynch (Lawrence 63) Subs not used: Crathorne, Carr.

Dunston UTS: Connell, Martindale, Halliday, Hodgson, Wilkinson, Gilhespy, Briggs,
Francis, Richardson, Smith, Thear. Subs not used: Bulford, Clark, Burrell, Pearson.

Next home game: Newcastle Benfield in EBAC Northern League on 15 September 2015,
7:30pm Kick Off. 


Report by T.C.

Saturday 5 September 2015

Stalemate with the Colliers

5th September 2015
Northern League Division One
Dunston UTS 0
Ashington 0

Dunston entertained Ashington at Dunston UTS Stadium in their fourth home game of the season, Dunston after stating well in their first three fixtures come into this game having not scored in their last two league games losing 1‐0 at home to Washington and a draw away to West Auckland. Ashington have had a reasonable start to their season with 2 wins, 1 draw and 2 losses in the opening league fixtures.

Pearson is still on holiday and Manager Billy Irwin brings back Morien and Thear to replace Bulford and Briggs respectively, who are on the bench.



Dunston start well straight on the attack where Morien's shot is blocked out to Halliday whose low cross is cleared, on 5 a Halliday corner to the back post is just too strong for Hodgson to apply the finishing header. After a low Francis shot is saved by Grant, Ashington won a corner taken by Downey and headed over the bar by Dunn.

On 12, Thear pushed a ball forward for Morien whose shot was saved by Grant diving low to his right. Dunston were trying hard to break the deadlock and Ashington had a limited breaks as Williamson on 17 dribbled into the Dunston area only for his 2 crosses to be blocked by Halliday.

On 21 Hodgson was unable to redirect a Francis free kick onto the target. On 28 Thear won possession of the ball 40 yards out and his shot from 20 yards was just wide of the far post. After 36 Smith had a shot at the back post blocked across goal to Richardson who shot across the goal and past the far post. A minute later Richardson almost made amends as he sized on a loose ball and approached the out coming Grant. Grant spread his body well and managed to deflect Richardsons shot.

On 38 Dunston nearly went behind as a Williamson cross spun off Gilhespy's foot and past the far post. Dunston attacked again as Smith laid a ball off to Francis. 20 yards out, Francis shot past the near post.

On 42 Connell was called into action as Williamson broke clear of the Dunston defence, Williamson tried to go round him but Connell scrambled the ball out for a corner. 2 minutes before the halftime whistle Smith picked up on the half way line and ran towards the the Ashington defence his attempted cross was saved by Grant.

Half time score 0‐0



Dunston started the second as they did in the first on attack against a hard working Ashinton packed defence, on 49 Thear put in a cross which had to be cleared. A minute later Morien cleverly controlled a high ball into him, his turn created space for his shot which went just wide of the far post. On 53 Hodgson played into Morien whose shot was saved by Grant diving low to his right. On a rare Ashington attack Williamson again took on Halliday who restricted the opportunity to a 25 yard shot which went wide.
 
On 55 a free kick by by Atkin on the half way line was back headed over the Dunston bar and safety. Dunston rallied again and on 57 Halliday played a ball into Smith at the near post but the defender managed to clear, before Francis attacked from the right wing, unleashing a shot from 12 yards, an Ashington defender suspiciously blocked and cleared the ball, with the officials not giving the hand ball offence that even Ashington fans were disputing.

On 61, Johnson played in Williamson but the alert Haliday agin blocked the shot. At the other end Morien again created space to shoot on target only for a defensive block to prevent its path. In an effort to get the opening goal Dunston laid siege on the Ashington area and Francis had two  opportunities which went wide of the target, on 71 Thear played in a cracking shot which was deflected to Francis who also shot on target but again it was somehow blocked and cleared.



On 78 Francis collected a loose Grant clearance and attempted a shot from 45 yards which went a yard past the post with the keeper trying to regain his ground. On 79, Thear got around the back of the defence near the by line, his low cross was forced out for a corner. In a repeat of the Washington game, Ashington got a chance late in the game fortunately for Dunston Grey shot wide of the target. Not finished as the game went into added on time Thear played a cross over to Briggs whose shot went over the bar.

The referee then brought the game to a close as a 0‐0 draw much to the frustration of the Dunston management and supporters.
.
Full Time Dunston 0 Ashington 0
 
A frustrated and Dunston side came up against a resilient Ashington side who succeeded in preventing Dunston from scoring, The Dunston side did everything but score and put a great deal of effort into their cause to no avail. Teams are aware of the Dunston ability to make chances and are setting their stall out to prevent them scoring. The Dunston side need to contiunue in the task and goals will surely come, however the record now shows that we have lost five points despite only conceding one goal in six league games.
 
Dunston Man of the Match: Liam Thear --‐ Liam worked hard to provide the Dunston forwards with opportunities while ensuring he did not shirk his defensive duties, Dan Smith also provided a useful display in a game which Dunston controlled for well over 80% of the possession.

Dunston UTS: Connell, Burrell, Halliday (Martindale 87), Hodgson (Briggs 82), Wilkinson, Gilhespy, Smith, Francis, Richardson, Morien, (Bulford 77), Thear. Subs not used: Clark, Dixon.
.

Ashington: Grant, Atkin, Weldon, Dunn (Grey 57), Harmison, Grieve, Moore, Downey,
Williamson, Kanda (Bell 57), Johnson. Subs not used: Race, Quinn, Thompson.
 .
Referee.. Sam Packer
Assistants.. Craig Galbraith and Derec Wade.
.
Attendance 262
.
Match Pictures.. Can be viewed here >>

Report By T.C.

Next Home Game: v Newcastle Benfield League, Tuesday 15 September 2015, 7:30 pm KO.

Tuesday 1 September 2015

Dunston unable to score at West Auckland

1st September 2015
Northern League Division One
West Auckland 0
Dunston UTS 0

Dunston are on their travels again to fellow 2012 Vase finalists, West Auckland. West have completely changed their team and Manager and to date this season are without a point from 5 games, While Dunston are still stewing at the home defeat against Washington which cost them their unbeaten record and zero goals scored against losing 1-0 in the 85th minute.

Dunston recovered on Saturday to beat Holker Old Boys in the FA Cup by 2 -0. Manager Billy Irwin welcomes back Malky Morien and Andy Clark but are still without right back Michael Pearson who is on holiday while Scott Martindale has also picked up a recurring knock to his knees but is fit to go on the bench. West have new signing Kris Goss in the team replacing former UTS player Anthony Hume who is on their bench.


Andrew Bulford takes a shot at goal.

Once again Dunston were straight out of the blocks and on 2, an Francis free kick was headed clear as far as Briggs whose cross / shot was deflected out of play at the near post. Richardson then played in Bulford who shot from 15 yards out and the ball ricocheted of the goalkeeper and out of play, on 4, a Halliday free kick was shot over the bar from 20 yards out. Still pressing hard on 6 Bulford laid off to Briggs whose shot was saved by the keeper Knight.

A minute later the all was played out from a corner to Bulford whose shot was deflected clear. West thought they had a chance on 8, as Connell sliced a clearance but Burrell playing at right back was able to clear. Play settled into a mid-field game until the 15th minute when Francis received a short ball from Richardson and shot wide of the far post.

Dale Burrell heads clear.

West made their first chance on 16, as Goss broke clear on the right, his low cross into the area towards Martin was cleared by a timely clearance by the alert Gilhespy, from the corner Goss attempted an overhead kick but only succeeded in putting the ball out of play. On 20 Briggs on good form travelled across the West 18 yard area and his shot was saved by Knight. 2 minutes later Richardson received a ball from Briggs and his shot was saved. On 24 Bulford fed Briggs into the box and his swerving shot just went past the far post. Bulford on 30 minutes tried another shot but it swerved away past the far post.

On 31 Martin won a ball on the edge of the box and shot over the bar. On 38 Connell took a free kick in his own half and reached Richardson in the box whose header went wide. On 40 minutes a good timely defence pass back from Gilhespy to Connell prevented Martin having a chance. As the game approached half time Francis played in a deep cross which an Beck interception forced the ball out for a corner.


The scores were level at half time 0-0 but Dunston were clearly ahead on possession but unable to break the deadlock.

Malcolm Morien surges forward..

West were buoyed by the half time break but not for long as Smith broke through the defence only to shoot over the bar on 49, Francis broke into a good run on the right wing, he fed Richardson who crossed to Bulford who headed over the cross bar on 55. A minute later Halliday broke through and crossed just too high for the waiting attackers. On 62 Connell had to react quickly and clear from the edge of the box as Hudson ran in. On 65 Francs had another shot deflected for a corner, from Halliday’s corner Briggs was just unable to control the ball at the front post. On 69, Richardson shot from 25 yards out, it went just over the bar. On 76 Hume fed Hudson whose shot was blocked by Gilhespy.

At the other end Burrell passed a short free kick to Francis who blasted his shot into the defensive wall. On 78 Hodgson had a header in the box go just over the bar from a Francis corner. On 83, a Halliday corner came out to Smith who rushed his 20 yard shot under challenge over the bar. On 86 Morien on as substitute picked up a ball at the halfway line and progressed to the West box his rocketed shot from 18 yards flashed just by the near post. As the game approached full time Hudson also ran with the ball from the half way line, beat three challengers, however his final shot went wide of the near post.

Dunston still continued to search for the elusive goal as Francis crossed and Knight was unable to collect but West somehow managed to clear and then Halliday was able to cross and find Thear in the 6 yard box but his header went over the bar.  The referee then blew her whistle for two points lost for Dunston but a first and hard earned draw for West.

Final Score Dunston UTS 0 West Auckland 0

As last week, on the field Dunston did not deserve to be beaten although their lack of goals in both halves did not help their cause. West Auckland persevered and broke dangerously on occasions but Connell did not really have a save to make, thanks mainly to some good defensive interceptions particularly by Gilhespy. The Dunston midfield lacked the presence of Burrell but coped well with what West had to offer, up front although we created chances we did not have our scoring boots on and Knight in the West goal was there making saves when we did shoot on target.

Dunston’s Man of the Match: Matty Briggs, An excellent display in the first half of a winger attacking the defence, creating opportunities for both himself and his team mates. Good performances from Gilhespy Halliday, Smith and Hodgson, who worked hard to contain the West attacks.

West Auckland: Knight, Bligh, Beck, Proctor, Marron, Maddison, Kendrick, Seatom (Hudson 41), Goss (Farrington 75), Martin (Hume 68), Gardner. Subs not Used: Stockburn, Fest

Dunston UTS: Connell, Burrell, Halliday, Hodgson, Wilkinson, Gilhespy, Smith, Francis, Richardson (Dixon 80), Bulford (Morien 80), Briggs (Thear 74). Subs not used: Clark, Martindale
.
Report by T.C.
.

Next Home Game.
EBAC Northern League - Dunston UTS vs Ashington on Saturday 5th September 2015 3:00pm KO.

Referee. Lindsaey Robinson
Assistants, Kirk Feeth and Malcolm Hogarth.
.
Match Pictures... Can be viewed here


Mike Amos. League Chairman visiting West Auckland part of
his Last Legs Charity fundraising event. More can be viewed
here on his page... https://www.justgiving.com/lastlegschallenge/