Dunston UTS FC

Dunston UTS v Whickham FC

2011-07-23T00:54:00.041+01:00

22nd July 2011
Charity Game
Dunston UTS 4
Whickham 0

Dunston came out on top in tonight's friendly in aid of the British Heart Foundation. Whickham had played the night before and were soon under pressure. After only 30 secs McAndrew beat McGill and his low cross was cut out by Holmes and from the resulting throw Bulford tried an ambitious overhead kick which was well off target. 3 minutes gone and Denver Morris hit a good shot from 25 yds which was well saved by Scott Cresswell. A minute later McAndrew took on McGill and Holmer before playingd a one-two with Hume before bending a shot just wide of the post. UTS took the lead on the quarter hour when the visitors lost the ball in midfield and Bulford was played in on the right finding Morris with a perfect pass who made no mistake in driving past Cresswell. This goal did not seem to spur UTS and the game seemed to go into a bit of a lull with the home side having the greater of the possession but neither team threatening. It took until the 35th minute for the next chance when a McAndrew corner found Cattanach in space 8 yds out and his downward header seemed perfect put took a wicked bounce and hit off the crossbar and Whickham lived again. The stay of execution was short lived when a minute later a perfect ball from Kane Young was flicked by Hume into the path of Bulford who drove past Cresswell to make it 2-0. Within a minute it was 3-0 when a cross from McAndrew, who was way out of position on the right, found Morris at the near post and he headed into the corner. 3-0 was probably a fair reflection at half time - Whickham had been awarded a plethora of free-kicks in semi-dangerous positions but despite the height advantage of Hedley and Holmes (The H Force) had failed to create a chance.

Within a couple of minutes of the restart the game was out of sight. Hume was barged on the edge of the area and the ref awarded a penalty. Even the liner admitted it was close but nevertheless Bully forced Scotty the wrong way to make it 4-0. There were major changes at the half and the teams looked completely different. One of the changes Swanston seemed to give Whickham that extra edge up from and he was unlucky when he cut in from the left but was denied by a great save from Connell. The visitors now had their best period of the game and had UTS on the back foot for a good time. Tait tried a good looking drive which was blocked for a corner. The place kick was met by Micky Hedley at the far post but his effort was blocked for a third successive corner. Then UTS hit on the break and Morris got to the goal-line on the right and his cross found McAndrew whose acrobatic overhead was just high and wide. On the hour Whickham were awarded a free-kick on the edge of the area and Scott Robson (who was probably desperate to score against his old team) hit an almost perfect free-kick around the wall but Connell made up ground and made a superb save for a corner. A minute later a free kick 30 yards out was met at the far post by Hedley who did well to get his effort on target but was no challenge for Connell. Whickham seemed to have played their trump card and UTS got on top again - after 66 minutes Denver Morris went on a good individual run , beating two players but scuffed his shot wide with hat-trick beckoning. With chances becoming few and far between after 76 minutes McAndrew cut in from the left and found Dixon whose effort was about a yard wide. With 10 to go Pickering cut in from the left and beat a couple of players before hitting low and his shot was well saved by Cresswell and McAlindon could not control the rebound and hit wide. Within a minute Morris did well to get to the goal line but hit a low cross which beat everyone. With a minute remaining Goddard found space on the right and passed inside to Morris who probably was a little over-anxious in getting his hat-trick and shot wide. The final whistle went with only one winner on the pitch but hopefully the biggest winner was the BHF and thanks to everyone who contributed in any shape or form to this charitable event.

UTS: Connell, Burns, Pickering, Robson, Cattanach, Young, Morris, Shaw, Hume, Bulford, McAndrew subs: Dixon, Clark, Herron, Goddard, McAlindon, Brooking, Hughes

WFC: Cresswell, McGill, Axon, Hedley, Holmes, Robson, Tait, Cavanagh, McKenna, Elliot, Rook Subs: Thirkell, Hodgson, Davison, Keenan, Swanston,

(All subs "revolving" and names which weren't on the teamsheet - so teams to the best of my ability)

Stats: Attempts UTS 18 WFC 6; On Target UTS 8 WFC 5; Corners UTS 5 WFC 5; Fouls committed: UTS 19 WFC 4; Offside UTS 1 WFC 4

UTSMOM - a difficult choice but it's the first time I have seen him play, good performance and two goals - Denver "The Bronco" Morris

Report By Mr. David O'Neil

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Pictures of the game http://www.flickr.com/photos/kenfitzpatrick/sets/72157627257667926/

Dunston UTS v Newcastle Benfield

2011-05-02T19:48:00.003+01:00

30th April 2011
League Fixture
Dunston UTS 3
Newcastle Benfield 0

A strange game by all accounts - UTS playing their fourth game in six days and Benfield still in with a chance of second place struggling for players. UTS kicked towards the Car Park End but it was the visitors who started the better. However in a slow start it took 13 minutes for the first chance when Shaun Bell got into a good position for Benfield but slightly sliced his shot just wide of the target. Three minutes later a free kick was headed goalward by Kane Young and stand-in keeper Fenwick made hard work in scurrying the ball for a corner. (In fairness to Fenwick I believe he is an outfield player). The resulting corner was cleared to Hepplewhite 30 yards out who hit a low drive which was well saved by the keeper. After 21 minutes UTS were awarded a free kick when Leighton fouled Goddard and Galbraith was just over with his attempt. Within a minute a mix-up at the other end when Kane Young tried to head back to the keeper who was too close resulted in a corner which came to nothing. On the half hour Benfield seemed to have taken the lead when Ben Cattanach lost the ball in midfield and ex-Fed man Adam Scope was played clear and beat the advancing Connell and the ball appeared to be rolling into the net when Pickering got back to make what could be called a match winning clearance. 2 minutes later a cross from the right from Benfield found Paterson in a good position but he headed wide of target. In a virtual carbon copy a right sided corner found Paxton who again headed across the face of the goal and wide as the visitors were looking dangerous. Its was then UTS' turn from a corner when Cattanach headed into the path of Goddard who could not control when in a good position. On the stroke of half-time Prince Harry (under the guise of Kieron McDonald) tried an ambitious effort which was just off target. Benfield had the better of the first half and UTS were looking a bit toothless upfront without the influence of Bully.

Within a minute of the restart UTS were ahead when Fishy Herron made a good run on the right and under pressure put in a perfect cross for Goddard to head home. After 50 minutes McAndrew got clear on the left and with Dixon screaming for the lay-back chose to shoot and the keeper saved. It did not take long for UTS to increase their lead though as two minutes later a Macca corner was punched back into his path by the keeper and his second effort was headed home by Dixon from 7 yards. Amazingly enough a game which UTS did not look like winning was now beyond the reach of Benfield. Although Johnny Mann hit a low drive which was saved by Connell. Bell had a good effort for Benfield but from a long ball upfield Goddard outpaced the defence but could not get clear control and flicked over the bar with only the keeper to beat. In the 80th minute McAndrew played in Dixon who looked offside but hit hard and low and forced a good save from Fenwick who was alert enough to gather the rebound at the feet of Hepplewhite. With the last touch of the game a cross from the right was headed into the path of Hepplewhite who made no mistake from close range - the referee's whistle went a second later. A game of two halves as the cliche goes and a mention to referee Mr Keogh from Blyth whom I thought had a very good game.

UTS Connell, Pickering I Mills, Galbraith, Cattanach(C), Herron, Hepplewhite, Young, Goddard, Dixon, McAndrew (subs McAlindon, Clark, Burns P Mills)

Benfield : S Fenwick, Dodsworth, Paterson, Antony, Leighton(C), Paxton, Scope, Bell, Feasey, Mann, McDonald (subs Wright, R Fenwick, Bangura, Finnigan, Chilton)

Stats Attempts UTS 11 Benfield 12; On Target UTS 5 Benfield 3; Corners UTS 4 Benfield 4; Fouls committed UTS 10 Benfield 5; Offside UTS 8 Benfield 6

UTSMOM - should go to Pickers for his match changing clearance but I give to Goddard just ahead of Fishy.

Report By Mr David O'Neil

Dunston UTS v W. Allotment Celtic

2011-04-17T18:55:00.003+01:00

13th April 2011
League Fixtures
Dunston UTS 2 (Galbraith 2)
West Allotment 0

UTS were forced to work hard in gaining all three points in a largely uneventful game which was of far greater importance to the visitors than ourselves. It was the visitors who started the better and had the first attempt when a hopeful 30 yarder was comfortably collected by Connell just under his cross-bar. After 7 minutes McAndrew found space on the wing but his low cross was cut out for a corner. 2 minutes later Ian Mills collected the ball on the half way line and was given time to carry the ball forward before cutting in but his effort was cut out for a corner. After 18 West had a corner and skipper Scott got in a clear header which went wide. To be honest the first half was a bit of a non-event but the visitors went close near the end when Cattanach unusually was guilty of misjudging a long ball letting in Lee Hamilton who from a difficult angle shot into the side netting. A first half of very few chances and 0-0 was a fitting scoreline.

The 2nd half was a little better and UTS seemed to raise their game - after 50 minutes a cross from the left evaded everyone before Ben Cattanach (the goal machine) hit a looping shot of the underside of the bar and eventually to safety. UTS finally took the lead after 58 minutes when a McAndrew corner found Galbraith who hit on the half volley past everyone and into the net. Allotment hit straight back and were awarded their own corner a minute later which was only half cleared to Stoneman on the edge of the area but his drive was over the bar. A good move on 65 from the home side found Dinger Bell on the edge of the area and his dangerous low cross was cut out for a corner. A minute later a crisp 1-2 played Galbraith clear but Bannon made a great save and the rebound was cleared. Although the visitors were never really threatening one goal was never enough and it took until late in the game before the game was beyond doubt - the award of a corner looked dubious from where I was standing but Dunston made the most and McAndrew again found Galbraith who again made no mistake from about six yards. In stoppage time Galbraith received the ball just outside the area before sidestepping the defender and forcing the keeper to save for a corner. Not a great game to be fair but UTS stretched their unbeaten league record to 12 in 4 weeks but for West a result which plunges them deeper into relegation trouble.

UTS: Connell, Pickering, Bell, Robson, Cattanach(C), Herron, McAndrew, Galbraith, Hepplewhite, Bulford, I Mills (subs Armstrong, Clark, P Mills, McAlindon, Coleman)

WA: Bannon, Hughes, Pendlebury, Dunn, Stoneman, Scott(C), Latimer, Buzzeo, Hamilton, Chapman, Lancaster (subs Gardiner, Novak, Fremlin, Jewels, Gordon)

Stats: Attempts UTS 9 WA 4; On Target UTS 6 WA 1; Corners UTS 8 WA 3; Fouls Committed UTS 15 WA 14; Offside UTS 5 WA 1

UTSMOM - Terry Galbraith seemed to have a hand in all things threatening for UTS and gets my vote.

Match Report By Mr. David O'Neil.

Dunston UTS FC v Shildon AFC

2011-04-06T22:23:00.003+01:00

5th April 2011
Dunston UTS 3 (Bulford 3)
Shildon AFC 2
League Fixture

Matches between these 2 teams are usually entertaining affairs and tonight's was no exception. UTS were playing their first of the usual 2 midweek games and Shildon were trying to get back on track after a couple of disappointing results. Dunston, kicking towards the Car Park started with the greater of the possession but it was the visitors who had the first effort when Hughes tried his luck from 24 yards which went harmlessly over. On 10 minutes though the home side took the lead when Galbraith found Bulford with a precision pass and Bully gave keeper Finch no chance with his first time strike. After 19 minutes from a throw in Herron hit a half volley which was just wide but the keeper always had it covered. After 23 Burns hit a 25 yarder which dipped wickedly but Finch safely gathered the ball just beneath the crossbar. Minutes later Bulford's pace caused the defence problems again and although he rounded the keeper two defenders got back and Chapman cleared for a corner. Shildon were still looking dangerous and from a 27th minute corner Harwood headed over. It became 2-0 on the half hour when Bulford again beat the offside trap and hit into the top corner with Finchy once more having no chance. With just over 5 minutes of the half remaining the visitors went close when a loose ball fell to Andrews inside of the area and although he didn't connect perfectly he would have been disappointed to hit the crossbar and then to safety. Within seconds Bully went on a break but on this occasion missed the target. Shildon then almost pressed the self-destruct button when Buzzeo played a loose ball across his own area and Paul Mills got the slightest of touches but the ball trickled wide. It was game on though deep into stoppage time when Keegan crossed from the left and Danny Richmond made no mistake with a 6 yard header.

The second half was more even. Shildon were starting to get more of the possession but the home side were always looking dangerous on the break. Shildon were awarded a free kick on the edge of the area and Chapman's effort was just over. A minute later a throw in found Herron who failed to connect well and even though it rolled past the keeper the defence cleared easily. Harwood hit the woodwork for the visitors but after 69 Bulford got on the end of a Herron cross and directed a header home for what is starting to become a regular hat-trick. Shildon hit straight back and in what seemed a game of head tennis in the home area UTS were finally able to clear. We never expect easy finishes at Dunston and so it was to prove - with about 12 minutes left Hughes looked certain to score but Connell made a fine save - the rebound however fell perfectly for Garvie to convert and we had a nervous finish. Shildon pushed forward and UTS were starting to look tired. In fairness though the final push was failing to create clear chances and it was Dunston who almost had the final say when in an almost carbon-copy of the first two goals Bully got through again but Finch was this time able to dive at his feet and save well. Bully seemed to pull his groin in this incident and this could be a worry for the visit of Spennymoor on Thursday. An entertaining game for the spectator - no good for my grey hair though.

UTS: Connell, Pickering, Bell, Robson, Cattanach(C), Herron, Burns, Galbraith, P Mills, Bulford, I Mills (subs: Armstrong, Clark, McAlindon, Hepplewhite)

Shildon: Finch, Harwood, Chapman, Walklate, Buzzeo, Keegan(C), Andrews, Richmond, A Johnson, Hughes, Garvie (subs Watson, Gordon, Price, S Johnson Niven)

Stats: Attempts UTS 12 Shildon 13; On Target UTS 7 Shildon 5; Corners UTS 3 Shildon 10; Fouls Committed UTS 14 Shildon 10 Offside UTS 4 Shildon 1

UTSMOM - Even disregarding his hat-trick Bully caused the opposition problems all night.

Match Report By Mr David O'Neil

Dunston UTS v Ryton FC

2011-03-30T20:41:00.003+01:00

29th March
League Fixture
Dunston UTS 5
Ryton 0

It took a while but UTS finally broke down the stubborn resistance of visitors Ryton. The pitch was looking well despite its recent "beatings" and UTS kicked towards the car park end. From the start it was obvious that the home side were going to have the larger share of the possession and the first real chance came after 5 minutes when keeper Tatum dived at the feet of Hepplewhite and the loose ball fell nicely for Bully at the edge of the area but with the keeper stranded visiting skipper O'Donnell was quick enough to clear off the line. It was inevitable that UTS were going to take the lead and it happened in strange circumstances after 15 minutes. A long cross from the left (more like an up and under) totally deceived the visiting keeper allowing Bully to volley into an empty net at the far post. We semi-expected the floodgates to open but Ryton defended valiantly and came within inches of drawing level after 27 - a bad ball out of goal from Connell was pounced upon by Liam Hudson who tried an ambitious 30 yarder which dipped sharply before hitting the crossbar with the ball ending up in the hands of a relieved Dunston keeper. Two minutes later UTS were awarded a dubious free kick when O'Donnell tackled Bulford who was bearing down on goal - the ball went straight back to the keeper and the referee harshly adjudged the back pass to have been intentional. The free kick was played into the path of Galbraith whose shot looked goalbound but was blocked for a corner. This decision apart I thought all three officials had a good game. After 32 minutes UTS beat the offside trap and the ball was played into the path of Bulford who, from a good position, scuffed his shot but keeper Tatum still had to scramble to get the ball for a corner. The resulting corner was headed just over by Cattanach. After 41 Galbraith won the ball on the centre circle and carried it to the edge of the area where he cut inside and tried to chip the keeper but also cleared the bar. With a minute of the half remaining Bulford took the ball inside from the right before hitting a low drive across the face of the goal but wide. UTS would have been disappointed not to have wrapped up the game but as said earlier Ryton were committing everything at the back.

Ryton had a good period just after the restart where they started to get more possession, passing well but in fairness not ever threatening. Having withstood this period though UTS doubled their lead after 57 when, from a free kick on the right, Armstrong found space on the edge of the six yard area where he looked to to able to get a header on target but chose to head back to Bulford who hit first time and made no mistake from 10 yards. After 65 mins Bully went on a good individual run beating the defence but had to stretch to toe-poke against the keeper who just beat Bully to the rebound. It was 3-0 minutes later when Liam Rigg played a quick one-two from a throw before reaching the goal-line and crossing for Paul Mills to hit home from the penalty spot. UTS were firmly on top now and made it 4-0 after 71 when Bully's pace was too much for the defence on the left, he cut in and although Tatum saved well the keeper was unlucky to see the ball fall nicely for Bully to complete his hat-trick - he was substituted straight after. After 75 Pickering put in a low cross across the face of the goal and sub Ian Mills just failed to connect at the far post. Mills did not have wait long for his first Dunston goal when Galbraith hit a vicious inswinger from the right and Millsa (Ian type) got the slightest of touches to direct it into the goal. That must put boths Millsas ahead of Keith in the all-time scorers . Ryton fluffed the restart allowing Paul Mills space to bear down on goal but he hit wide of the post. With the very last kick of the match a defensive error let in Hepplewhite who lost control in attempting to round the keeper and the ball rolled harmlessly for a goal kick. A straightforward win but another gallant effort from the Ryton lads.

DUTS: Connell, Pickering, Rigg, Armstrong, Cattanach(C), Burns, P Mills, Galbraith, Hepplewhite, Bulford, Dummett (subs Robson, Clark, Herron, Goddard, I Mills)

Ryton: Tatum, Burdon, Coates, Lowdon, Below, O'Donnell(C), Frame, Bell, Latimer, Palmer, Hudson (subs: Wilson, Jenkinson, Richardson, Arnott, Anderson)

Stats Attempts : UTS 20 RFC 3; On Target UTS 12 RFC 0; Corners UTS 4 RFC 2; Fouls Committed UTS 3 RFC 7; Offsides UTS 4 RFC 0

UTS MOM - Said it before but you can't overlook hat-tricks - Bulford

Report By Mr. David O'Neil

Shildon v Dunston UTS

2011-03-24T20:12:00.007Z

League Cup Quarter Final
Wednesday 23rd March 2011
Shildon F.C. 2
Dunston UTS F.C. 2
Shildon won 4-2 on Pens

Dunston travelled to meet Shildon in a crucial League Cup Quarter Final tie in what was to be their ninth game in eighteen days. Manager Billy Irwin had to reckon without the unavailable Fergal Harkin and Kane Young and the injured Michael Dixon and Lee Bell. Mark Dummett from Ponteland United was drafted in as a late replacement for Lee Bell.

Dunston started brightly and the Shildon defence were caught early on when a ball over the top saw Bulford race clear only for home keeper Staples to rescue his side when he blocked with his legs. Bulford then had another chance but a brilliant tackle from Moore saw the ball deflected for a corner. As the pace began to settle Harwood was causing problems down the right and from one of his crosses the ball just eluded the Shildon forwards. The Johnson had a good effort expertly turned over the bar by UTS keeper Connell. Some excellent interplay between Herron and McAndrew put Bulford in on goal but again Staples saved with his legs. Once again Harwood got clear on the right hand side but his cross was headed over the bar by Johnson and when Andrews tried his luck from 20yards his effort was just wide. Bulford was terrorising the home defence and when a ball over the top saw him clear on goal the ball would not come down quick enough and Keegans got back to put in a great tackle. Half time came with the tie evenly poised with perhaps Shildon having the greater possession but Dunston were the more dangerous and had created the better chances.

Dunston were forced to make a change at half time with the injured Goddard replaced by Hepplewhite. Once again Dunston started on the attack with McAndrew and Galbraith combining well on the left hand side. Shildon were forced to concede a corner and from McAndrew's cross Galbraith rifled home a bullet header to put Dunston one nil up. Further disaster struck for Dunston after 60 minutes when youngster Dummett, who had been having an excellent game, received a second yellow card leaving his side with ten men and thirty minutes to play. Obviously Shildon pushed forward but Dunston were restricting their efforts on goal and defending brilliantly. Whilst Shildon had a lot of possession, as you would expect, they were not posing a great threat but they eventually fashioned an equaliser on eighty minutes when a free kick was glanced home by Andrews. With a minute of normal time remaining Bulford saw keeper Staples off his line and he shot from 35 yards. Unfortunately the keeper got his finger tips to the ball and full time came at 2-2.

Having already played 30 minutes with ten men Dunston continued to give their all and a mistake by Staples when he let a back pass go under his foot into the net put them back into the lead. As Dunston tired it was backs to the wall but just when it looked like their determination and a great performance would see them home a cross by Harwood was headed by Keegans and looked to be going beyond Garvie but he retrieved the ball and drove into the net. Even then Bulford and Hepplewhite opened up the home defence and when Bulford played the ball into Hepplewhite the ball bobbled and went behind him when he was clean through on goal.

It was then all down to penalties which is lottery unless of course you win and Dunston lost by 4-2.

Team: L. Connell; S. Pickering; M. Robson;
B. Cattanach (Capt); M. Dummett; L. McAndrew; J. Burns;
I. Herron; T. Galbraith; S. Goddard; A. Bulford
Subs: M Hepplewhite; A.Clark(G/K); I.Mills

MOM – The whole team were brilliant and how they kept going for an hour with ten men was remarkable especially after their ninth game in eighteen days. I am sure that Billy and Tony were proud of their players as were the committee and supporters. However if I had to give it to one person it is Andrew Bulford, a fantastic performance.

After reading the Shildon Manager’s ( I think his name is Forrest) shortened version of the game I am amazed at his comments about another team. What is so much different between a league game and a cup game. Both are to be won. Does he think that his team are Barcelona. I recall that he had a go at Whitley Bay accusing them of using long ball tactics when the Bay beat them recently. This about a team who have won the F.A. Vase for the last two years, and hopefully will win it this year, and renowned for playing great attacking football. Perhaps it was the pitch that beat you or any other excuse you can find. He also moaned about the pitch when he lost at Bishop Auckland.What has he won during his spell at Shildon.

MNJ

Dunston UTS v Spennymoor Town

2011-03-10T20:06:00.009Z

9th March 2011
Durham Challenge Cup Semi Final
Dunston UTS 1
Spennymoor Town 1
(Dunston won 3-2 on penalties)

UTS finally got through to the final of the Durham Challenge Cup after a mammoth battle against League Champions Spennymoor. Town's pace looked threatening from the outset and they wasted no time in taking the ball towards the Dunston rearguard. It took 10 minutes for the first chance of any note when Peacock went on a solo run and let go once in a scoring position only to see his effort blocked.
UTS hit back and Bulford got into a dangerous position but his effort was similarly blocked. Mick Robson was then booked for a lunge at Peacock which most people thought could have merited more. Spennymoor were controlling the ball well around the edge of the Dunston box but were finding that last telling ball elusive. It almost came after 23 when Hubbard (I think) was played clear but his low hard shot was saved by the feet of Connell. 2 minutes later they were awarded a free kick from a very dangerous looking position at the edge of the area but Capper hit well over. As the first half was reaching its close Hepplewhite had a great chance for the home team when he robbed a defender on the half way line but Turns just got a hand to his effort which looked goal-bound and McAndrew's slide in at the far post was adjudged illegal. A minute later it was Spenny's turn to go close as a long cross reached Harrison at the far edge of the area who hit a superb piledriver but Connell was just as superb in saving for a corner. It was a first half of few clear chances which the visitors probably had the greater of.
The second half started in similar fashion and it was the visitors who had the first chance on 50 when a left sided cross was hit on the half volley by Cogden but was unable to keep it on target. The game continued in a familiar fashion with Town trying their hardest to convert good possession but finding the home defence coping well with most of which was fired into the danger area. UTS for themselves were starting to create a bit more trying to break quickly with Bulford, McAndrew and Galbraith in particular. This tactic finally paid off for the home team after 74 when Dixon found Bulford with a defence-splitting pass which Bully, as he has so often this season, kept his cool to hit past Turns. We were all in no illusion that it was going to be a long last quarter of an hour. Spennymoor pressed hard and were finding space on either wing and the home side were forced into several clearances from their own 6 yard area and Connell collected a couple of dangerous crosses from just under his bar.

With 6 minutes left though a long cross from the left was pin-perfect for Rae to head home from close range this time giving Connell no chance. With only a couple of minutes remaining McAndrew cut in from the left and tried to place the ball into the top right but his effort hardly troubled Turns in goal. Spennymoor went straight upfield and had two successive corners - the first of which when Liam let one slip through his hands. Both corners were into the danger area but UTS held on for the extra-time probably no-one wanted.

UTS were the first to cause problems in extra-time when Macca and Galbraith combined to provided a low cross for sub Pickering - not sure if Pickers got the slightest touch or not but the ball finished just wide of the post. Spenny had a good chance when Dodds cut in from the wing beating about three players but his shot was just wide. Both sides had half chances in extra time but as the game approached the "next goal will win it" stage Burns hit a 25 yarder which, from where we were, seemed to be dipping but just did not dip enough. It was left to the lottery of penalties to decide. Cattenach. Galbraith and McAndrew were the scorers responsible for putting UTS into this prestigious final. It wasn't a classic game to be honest, more of a war of attrition but after last week's vase disappointment is at least some consolation.

UTS: Connell, Burns, Bell, Robson, Cattenach(C), Herron, McAndrew, Dixon, Hepplewhite, Bulford, Galbraith (subs Pickering, Clark, Armstrong, Stephenson, Rigg)

Spennymoor: Turns, Harrison, Mason, Dodds, Ryan(C), Capper, Hubbard, Laws, Rea, Peacock, Cogden (subs Richardson, Johnston, Smith, Griffiths, Bishop)

Stats : Attempts UTS 10 ST 11 On Target UTS 3 ST 4, Corners UTS 3 ST 9; Fouls committed UTS 19 ST 8; Offside UTS 2 ST 7

UTSMoM - despite Connell's heroics I though Ben Cattenach a pillar of strength in defence.

Match Report By Mr. David O'Neil

FA Vase Round 5

2011-02-13T18:14:00.014Z

12th February 2011
Stansted F.C 0
Dunston UTS 2, (Bulford, Harkin)

What a day !

Dunston UTS produced a very professional performance at Stansted today and in doing so reached the quarter finals of the FA Vase for only the second time in their history. The village of Stansted had a “cup fever buzz” to it as locals who don't normally go to the match were all talking about the big occasion.

The game itself was a bit of a war of attrition. Both sides had half chances early on – Connell being forced to make two comfortable saves and after 6 minutes UTS went close when Harkin got in a low cross and the ball was deflected into the path of McAndrew 12 yards out - his effort looked goalbound but was blocked by a defender. Within seconds Bricknell again forced a save from Connell. It was end to end stuff and after 8 mins Pickering and Harkin combined well but the end cross was just beyond Macca at the far post. The home team then had the better of the possession without really creating clear scoring chances. It was going to take something special to break the deadlock and it was provided after 33 minutes courtesy of Fergal Harkin. A mix up in the home defence when 2 defenders left the ball for each other forced keeper James May to dive at the feet of Bulford in what could have been deemed a foul in the area and the ball ran harmlessly towards the touchline. Harkin feinted as if to let the ball go out for a throw but then with the keeper still returning to his goal tried an ambitious chip which seemed to swerve miraculously into the goal. The home side hit straight back though and headed just over the bar. After 37 Harkin found McAndrew who hit well from the edge of the area but May saved well. UTS started to take control and as the half reached its conclusion McAndrew put in a low cross and although Harkin reached it at the far post could not get any accuracy into his effort. Seconds later Bulford tried a back header which was just over. A tough half and 1-0 was probably just a fair reflection.

The second half continued in similar fashion – Dunston were playing the better football and Stansted were largely pumping high balls into the area but Connell was on form and catching everything. After 56 the home side were awarded a soft free kick on the edge of the area and Spillane's effort looked on target but the wall did their job and it was headed for a corner. 2 minutes later though it was 2-0 when a defender misjudged a long ball letting in Bulford – the defender tried a sly pull which was flagged by the asref and a sending off would have surely resulted – but Bulford to his credit continued on and his effort was well blocked by keeper May who was unluckly to see the ball sky over him and into the net. The home team had threatened little and was difficult to see where 2 goals were going to come from. After 70 minutes Dunston were awarded a free kick on the right and Cattanach, on a rare excursion upfront, headed just over. UTS were in almost total control now and Dixon headed over from a corner. The game fizzled out as Stansted pushed forward hopefully without threatening and when UTS got the ball looked dangerous on the break. The posse headed towards the main stand for the final whistle. The Stansted players left the field to a standing ovation which was sportingly returned. The lads then came off with the local reporters taking photos of the Dunston Posse (news must be short in Stansted). Preenie dived into the crowd elbowing Tony Ward in the forehead for the game's only injury. A word of thanks to Stansted – their hospitality was excellent from the minute we got off the coach – the landlady of the Queen's Head who must have shut her pub for the afternoon as she, her barman and her customers were all at the match and of course to the Dunston Officials – as I said on NZL we don't often show our appreciation for the work which goes into a day like this – Geeeeeettttttt Innnnnnn.

UTS... Connell, Pickering, Galbraith, Robson, Cattanach, Herron, Harkin, Dixon, Preen, Bulfotd (Goddard) McAndrew

Stansted... May, Sendall, Spillane, Oliva , Oxby, Best, Gayle, Dark (Duffy), Cornwell, Bricknell Durrant,

Stats: Attempts UTS 13 Stansted 9 On target UTS 6 Stansted 4 Corners UTS 6 Stansted 8;
Fouls committed UTS 21 Stansted 17 Offside UTS 2 Stansted 1

MoM: I am sure some will find this a strange shout as he was hardly peppered with shots but Connell saved everything hit at him and must have been first to at least a dozen crossed so is my choice.

Match Report By Mr. David O'Neil

The Onion Bag Blog, his trip and view of the match..
http://onion-bag.blogspot.com/2011/02/stanstead.html

Dunston UTS FC v Ryton

2011-02-10T22:22:00.006Z

Match Report..
Dunston UTS FC 7
Ryton 1
Northern League Cup Round 2
9th February 2011

Dunston cruised into the next round of the League Cup tonight against local rivals Ryton. The game had an explosive start when with only about 60 seconds on the clock McAndrew picked up the ball on the halfway line and ran at the defence – his pace left a couple of defenders standing and he hit home from about 25 yards giving Curran no chance in the Ryton goal. Dunston looked in total control and appeared likely to add to their lead but after 10 minutes a loose back-pass allowed in Liam Hudson who kept his cool and slid the ball past Connell and things were level. Three minutes later McAndrew went on another solo run but this time his effort from outside the box went wide of the post. Equality was only to last until the 16th minute when once again McAndrew took on the defence, cut in and shot low and hard past the shell-shocked Curran. UTS now had the upper hand with Macca causing all sorts of problems on the left – he again took on the defence on the wing and put in a near perfect cross which could not be converted. It became 3-1 on the half hour when Bulford beat the offside trap and put in a low cross which was not cleared and fell to McAndrew 12 yards out who completed his hat-trick. Things could have been worse for the visitors as within a minute Curran made a double save – first Bully cut inside from the right and forced a save with the rebound falling to Preen but once again the keeper was equal to it. UTS were well deserving of their half time lead and most people thought there was more to come.

UTS quickly went on the attack in the second half – they were awarded a couple of free kicks in dangerous positions – the latter of which was well saved by Curran for a corner. The resulting corner was flicked towards Hepplewhite who shot from close range and after all his good work the keeper could not prevent it crossing the line and the game was effectively over. After 55 mins it became 5-1 when some crisp passing football resulted in Bulford shooting on the turn inside the area and his habit of scoring against his former team continued. Two minutes later it became worse for the visitors when Galbraith went on a good run on the wing and cut into the area before placing the ball past the keeper – then Preen received the ball on the edge of the area but was just wide and the floodgates appeared to be opening. From where we were it looked to be 7-1 on the hour when a brilliant drive from Hepplewhite 30 yards out nestled into the net but Dixon in an offside position presumably must have got a touch and the goal chalked off. After 63 UTS went close again when a McAndrew corner was scrambled off the line with another corner the result. This set-piece was met first time by Armstrong who made no mistake from close range and it was now seven. Everyone in the ground was speculating on the final score at this stage but to their credit Ryton regrouped and kept the game scoreless for the last 27 minutes or so. After 74 Galbraith found Bully with a perfect pass from defence and his low cross was just in front of Hepplewhite. With 5 minutes left some good passing football found Bully on the edge of the area who would have been disappointed to hit straight at the keeper. A routine victory for UTS which gives them a home tie against Team Northumbria.

UTS Connell, Pickering, Galbraith, Bell, Armstrong, Herron, Hepplewhite, Dixon, Preen, Bulford, McAndrew (subs Burns, Clark, Stephenson, Cattanach)

Ryton Curran, Dunford, Hamilton, Jelley, O'Donnell, Below, Anderson, Lucas, Hudson, Lowdon, Frame (subs: Wilson, Gordon, Coates, McCoy, Richardson)

stats: Attempts UTS 20 Ryton 4 On target UTS 14 Ryton 2 Corners UTS 9 Ryton 2; Fouls committed UTS 8 Ryton 4 Offside UTS 4 Ruton 1

MoM: After sealing the game in the first 30 minutes no option but Lee McAndrew

Match Report By Mr David O'Neil

Dunston UTS v Sunderland RCA

2011-01-26T22:06:00.004Z

Northern League
25th January 2011
Dunston UTS 2
Sunderland RCA 3
Att 122

Dunston UTS came back down to ground with a thump last night in a disappointing performance against Sunderland RCA. The visitors started well and after only a minute Walton clipped the bar and over with Connell beaten. UTS were looking shaky and it took only 6 minutes for the visitors to take the lead. They were awarded a free kick on the right and ex-Fed man Keith Graydon found Carling with a perfect ball and the big man made no mistake with his header from 8 yards. It took a while before UTS created anything, but when they did on 15 minutes it was decisive. McAndrew, on one of his trademark runs beat 2 defenders before finding the perfect cross for Bulford to head past Hoggeth and it was 1-1. The goal gave UTS the boost they needed and they finally started to get a foothold into the game. On the half-hour a Galbraith corner kick found the head of Bully, however the contact wasn’t great and it was easily cleared. Preen then went on a solo run from the halfway line but when he got to the edge of the area scuffed the ball harmlessly at the keeper. In the final few minutes of the half RCA had a penalty appeal turned down when Cattenach and Logan made contact in the area but the referee waved play on. 1-1 was probably just right at the half.

Sunderland RCA also started the 2nd half well - aided by a string of successive free-kicks. They hit a free kick just high then forced two saves from Connell - However, in similar fashion to the first half, UTS scored with their first forage into the opposition danger area. McAndrew found space on the left and with nowhere to go laid the ball back to Galbraith whose cross rebounded off a defender into the path of Pickering (not sure what he was doing up there) who made no mistake from close range and made it 2-1. Within a minute after a bit of a scramble Bulford tried an overhead kick from the edge of the area which was brilliantly saved. Then McAndrew on the left got in a good shot which was parried by the keeper who managed to gather the rebound. This was an important period of the match as I feel if had gone 3-1 the home side would have gone on to win. Hoggeth’s heroics were to prove invaluable though - after 65 RCA were awarded a free-kick on the right and Graydon again found the perfect ball for Beasley to head home at the far post. The game could have gone either way and after 71 minutes Herron hit a 25 yarder which was on target but comfortably saved. The visitors hit back and Connell was forced to make a close range save from Carling. A minute later the visitors were to be awarded another free-kick in a dangerous position - Graydon played a quick 1-2 before hitting through a crowded area and past Connell. UTS tried to press forward in stoppage time but were unable to grab the equaliser which the stats will say would have probably have been fair. UTS looked a little flat after Saturday’s heroics but that is not taking away from RCA who played well. My one bit of sour grapes was that in what was in no way a dirty game the foul count borders on baffling.

UTS Connell, Pickering, Galbraith, Robson, Cattanach© Herron, Burns, Dixon, Preen, Bulford, McAndrew (subs Hepplewhite, Clark, Armstrong, Young)

SRCA Hoggeth, Oates, Talbot, Beasley© Carling, Scott, Walton, Graydon, Logan, M Smith, S Smith (subs Davies, Taylor, Toft, Ellison, McGuire)

Stats: Attempts UTS 12 RCA 11; On Target UTS 7 RCA 8; Corners UTS 11 RCA 5; Fouls committed UTS 19 RCA 5; Offside UTS 2 RCA 7

UTS MOM Pickers

Report By Mr.David O'Neil

Runcorn Town FC v Dunston UTS FC

2011-01-23T21:25:00.033Z

FA Vase Round 4
Runcorn Town 1
Dunston UTS 3 (Bulford 3)
att 185
22nd Janauary 2011

Dunston turned in a great VA Vase performance yesterday and in doing so reached the last 16 of this prestigious competition. UTS were favourites to win but everyone knew it was not going to be easy. The home team went instantly on the attack but after 2 minutes UTS’ first venture resulted in a corner. The home defence were guilty of not clearing Harkin’s corner kick and the ball eventually found Bulford 15 yards out and although it wasn’t the cleanest of strikes it passed everyone before hitting the inside of the left hand post and in to give the visitors a dream start.
The home defence were looking shaky early on and Bulford was played clear 2 minutes later but shot straight at the keeper. Town survived the early scares and after 14 minutes had a good period of pressure in the UTS area without really threatening and Galbraith finally played the ball out for a corner. 20 minutes gone and McAndrew was played clear on the left before laying the ball back to Fergal on the edge of the area who tried to place his shot but was just wide of the post. It was 2-0 after 25 - Galbraith had the vision to find McAndrew with a quick throw and the winger found Bully in space inside the area and he sidefooted perfectly past Wills and UTS had some breathing space. UTS were controlling well and after 35 Macca beat a couple of defenders before having his cross cut out for a corner. The resulting corner found Harkin at the far post who tried an ambitious overhead kick into the side netting. Town were having their fair share of the possession but it was UTS who were making more of theirs and after 40 mins McAndrew and Harkin combined well to find Bulford and although the shot appeared to be going wide Wills played safe and parried the shot for a corner. Within 30 seconds Harkin cut inside from the left but shot wide. On the stroke of half time it could have been more when in an almost carbon copy of the second goal McAndrew found Bulford who rattled the woodwork, (I was at the far side of the ground suitably positioned for the bar and some people tell me it was Fergal so apologies to one or the other). 2-0 was probably a fair reflection of the first half. I feel if UTS had just played sensibly for the first 10 minutes of the second half the game would have been put to bed but unfortunately (from our point of view) Town were awarded a 49th minute penalty. Mick Robson slid to the ground to block a cross and the ball hit his hand. I thought it harsh and think the “intentional” clause has slipped from the game. It was similar to the Man U v Arsenal decision which was also given so I suppose the refs are consistent. Regardless of the rights and wrongs James McShane kept his cool to hit low and hard to the right and it was game on.
This was undoubtedly the home side’s best period of the match and for the next 15 minutes they pressed forward and UTS were having trouble keeping the possession which seemed so routine in the first half.
In fairness though clear cut chances were not coming for Town. Midway through the second half UTS seemed to find their rhythm again and started to pass well, A 70th minute corner was punched by the keeper to McAndrew who tried a 25 yarder which looked perfect but was blocked for another corner. A minute later Harkin found McAndrew in space at the far post but the angle was difficult and he shot over the bar. The home side had a glorious chance after 74 when sub Adegbreno went on a good run on the right but his excellent ball into the danger area evaded everyone and out to safety. Within seconds McAndrew broke free on the right but with no support ran out of options. Dunston were again having the greater possession and forced a series of corners. The game was effectively sealed with 10 minutes to go again due to the McAndrew/Bulford combo, Macca cut in from the right, beating a defender before finding Bully who shot on the turn and again managed to sneak in via the left post. Runcorn to their credit kept pushing but were never going to pull back 2 goals in the last 10. The players (both teams) went off to a deserved ovation. One of the better days out in my 20 years of Dunston road trips. UTS: Connell, Pickering, Galbraith, Robson, Cattanach, Herron, Harkin, Dixon, Preen, Bulford. McAndrew (subs: Hepplewhite, Goddard, Burns)

Town: Wills, Latham, Kinsey, Molyneux, Dalton, Byrne, Robinson, Cummins, Carey, McShane, Bellew (subs Adegbreno, Anderson).

Stats: Attempts UTS 14 RT 6; On Target UTS 7 RT 4; Corners UTS 12 RT 5; Fouls committed UTS 12 RT 6; Offsides UTS 7 RT 3

Man of the Match: I spoke to Ben Cattanach last night and explained that this award is so unfair to the defence. The back four played perfectly and other than the aforementioned penalty incident coped with everything thrown at them but it would be impossible to single out one of them. The midfield did everything asked of them and the supply from McAndrew, Harkin and Gabraith superb. However it would be impossible to ignore a hat-trick and for the second week running the “Bully” theme song resounds around the ground.

Match Report By AFF

Read Runcorn Town FC Match Report.. http://alturl.com/9emvx

Dunston UTS FC v Heather St Johns FC

2011-01-19T20:22:00.006Z

Match Report
FA Vase Round 3
Dunston UTS 2 (Bulford 2)
Heather St Johns 0
15th January 2011

It was tough going and at times not pretty but UTS finally overcame Heather in a tie postponed since early December. UTS kicked towards the car park end - the pitch was very heavy put certainly playable. It was clear from the start that HSJ were going to be a very difficult team to break down. After 9 minutes Preen received the ball inside the area and although he turned and got a shot on target it was a safe save for Gutteridge in the away goal. The visitors hit back within seconds and Brown came close, hitting the woodwork. HSJ were holding the ball well in midfield and running towards the home defence. After 17 minutes though McAndrew created a couple of chances getting in two crosses, the first of which was just short of Galbraith and the latter cut out by the keeper. The visitors were quick to hit back and Ashley Spencer hit a good shot which dipped just too late. After 28 minutes a Galbraith free kick was met by Dixon and the ball crashed off the bar and keeper Gutteridge managed to dive at Preen's feet preventing the striker from converting the rebound. Again the visitors went from one end of the field to the other in quick time and Connell was forced to save from Brown. 37 minutes on the clock and Heather spurned a good chance when a cross from the right found Andrew Spencer who would have been disappointed to see his header drop harmlessly into the arms of Connell. Heather caused the home team problems in the last 5 minutes - on a couple of occasions the ball ping-ponged across the home 18 yd area without being converted. On the stroke of half time the visitors had a free kick in a dangerous position which was straight at the keeper and UTS went straight upfield and Bulford forced Gutteridge to flick the ball for a corner. A tough half - the visitors had the better of the possession and looked dangerous but UTS also looked like, when going forward, they were going to cause problems.

Fortunately I managed to finish my Theatre Drink on time as the second half began in explosive fashion. With most of the posse still in the bar Dixon hit a perfect through ball within a minute of the restart and Bulford got a half yard start on his defender - keeper Gutteridge advanced to the edge of his area but Bully found the perfect chip to leave the keeper to watch the ball fly over his head and into the empty goal. Better was to come a few minutes later when McAndrew put in a pinpoint cross from the left - from where we were about 10 yards from the goal we got the perfect view of Bully getting in front of his marker, rising perfectly and rocketing in a header which gave the visiting keeper no chance. Bully ran into the crowd followed by the majority of the home team (maybe not Liam who was still suffering from playing outside against South Shields). Bully was booked at Tipton for doing the same thing and maybe should have known better - but frankly who cares. Dunston sat back from here (I disagree with the local papers who said forced back) as they knew Heather had to come at them. The visitors did make every effort to do so but things were starting to look comfortable for UTS. Connell saved well again from Brown but at the other end Bulford, Harkin and McAndrew all forced Gutteridge into action as Heather were forced to push forward. HSJ were denied a consolation goal at the end when Connell made an excellent save from Spencer (I think Andrew). As already said a hard earned victory - both sides received a standing ovation at the end - although the look on the Asref''s face was a classic as the officials obviously were not used to receiving the same applause. On to Runcorn..........

UTS: Connell, Pickering, Bell, Robson, Cattanach(C), Herron, McAndrew, Dixon, Preen, Bulford, Galbraith (subs Burns, Clark, Hepplewhite, Harkin, Goddard)

HSJ Gutteridge, Pugh, Kyriacou, Tullin, Jarvis(C), Mills, Spencer (And), Spencer (Ash), Evans R, Brown, Waldrum (subs Hanslow, Evans L, Rowell, Olorenshaw, Williams)

Stats: Attempts UTS 12 HSJ 12; On Target UTS 8 HSJ 7; Corners UTS 5 HSJ 5;
Free Kicks conceded UTS 14 HSJ 9

UTSMOM - It's an old cliche goals win games but I can look no further than Andrew Bulford
for this one

Durham City AFC v Dunston UTS FC

2011-01-12T21:10:00.006Z

MATCH REPORT
Durham City 2 Dunston UTS 3
Durham Challenge Cup R3
Tuesday 11th January 2011.

Dunston travelled to meet Durham City with a place in the last four waiting for the winners of this Durham Challenge Cup tie. Manager Billy Irwin had to reckon without the unavailable Fergal Harkin and Steve Goddard plus the injured Andy Armstrong.
Dunston made the worst possible start conceding after fifteen seconds. From the kick off the Durham left back played the ball forward and the UTS defence were taken by surprise of the pace and bounce of the ball on the all weather surface and Purewal was left with an easy task to shoot wide of Connell. A disastrous start and things could have been much worse as Dunston really struggled to come to terms with the all weather surface and Connell had to make a great block when Dowson was sent clear. Durham were well on top, looking confident and assured as they attacked the Dunston goal whilst Dunston were hesitant and unsure. Connell was again called in to action to block once more when Thompson was put clear and then the same player shot just wide. At last Dunston began to adjust to the pace of the game and Bulford was only just wide with a good effort. The Durham goalkeeper was looking assured as Dunston came more into the game but he was at fault when he dropped across only for the Dunston forwards to squander the opportunity. Durham could have increased their lead when a terrific shot from Dowson hit the underside of the bar and bounced to safety. Half time came with Durham leading one nil and maybe should have had more but that is why you have a goalkeeper and Liam done his job well.

The second half saw a different Dunston team attack from the kick off and mount several attacks on the Durham goal. It was not long before the equaliser came when Terry Galbraith somehow got a cross in from the left and when the ball was half cleared Bulford was on hand to slot home. Dunston were pressing forward in search of another goal but whenever Durham attacked the usual resolute Dunston defence looked unsure. The second goal came after a clearance fell to Dunston’s Ian Herron about twenty two yards from goal. He waited for the ball to bounce and then hit a tremendous shot into the top corner. However with the game swinging from end to end Durham equalised when Pickering slipped and Home Jackson gleefully accepted the chance to slam the ball into the net. Play continued from end to end but it was Dunston who went back in front. A cross from Lee Bell was not cleared and Dixon, although forced wide, managed to turn and fire into the net. Then Stephenson hit the outside of the post for Durham and Galbraith saw a great header hit the bar for Dunston. Durham kept attacking till the end but could not find an equaliser.
This was a good result for Dunston as it was the first time for along long time they have played a competitive game on an all weather pitch but after a hesitant start they stuck to their task to record a cup double over their opponents.
Don’t believe everything you read in the Chronicle – be there.

Team: L.Connell; S.Pickering; M.Robson; B.Cattanach(Capt); L.Bell; L.McAndrew;
M.Dixon; I.Herron; T.Galbraith; S.Preen; A.Bulford
Subs: M Hepplewhite( replaced Preen); J.Burns(replaced Dixon); T. Stephenson;
A.Clark(G/K)

MOM Andy Bulford

By MNJ

2011-01-07T17:57:00.014Z

Dunston UTS FC 4 Jarrow Roofing 0
League Fixture
4th January 2011

After a seven week wait UTS finally got a game played resulting in a welcome 3 points. The teams met on the first day of the season producing an entertaining 3-3 draw but on this occasion the result never seemed in question. UTS started brightly kicking towards the car park end. It took 6 minutes for the first real effort when from a McAndrew corner Steve Preen headed just wide. UTS were having the greater possession and Roofing were struggling to get out of their own half. After 14 minutes there was a period of pressure when first Harkin forced a great save from keeper Newbrook with a corner resulting. This corner found McAndrew in space on the edge of the area but his shot was off target. A minute later Preen wasted a glorious chance when he beat the offside trap but with only the keeper to beat lost his footing and Newbrook was able to dive at his feet and defuse the situation. After 19 minutes a Galbraith free kick was headed into the danger area by McAndrew where Preen 5 yards out got in a good flick but the ball went straight at the keeper. Just after the half hour Preen and Goddard combined to find McAndrew who tried to place his shot from a difficult angle but the ball went high and wide. With 34 minutes gone Goddard found Preen with a perfect pass but one on one with the keeper he failed to connect properly and Newbrook was able to save easily. It was one way traffic and after 37 Macca played in Preen but his first time effort was well saved for a corner. UTS had to wait for only a minute more to take the lead, Goddard’s cross was cleared to the edge of the area where Fergal Harkin hit an unstoppable left footed volley which gave the keeper no chance. There might still have been a game if Roofing could have held on until half time but in the 44th minute Ben Cattanach picked up the ball just inside the opposition half ,played a neat one -two before getting into the area on the right and crashing a drive past the helpless Newbrook in the Jarrow goal. It could have been worse for the visitors in stoppage time when Galbraith and McAndrew combined well on the left to cross for Preenie to head just wide of the far post. After such a long lay-off UTS played some very good football at times and could have been more than 2-0 up at the break.

The 2nd half continued in similar fashion to the first with UTS continuing to press. They only had to wait until the 53rd minute to effectively finish the game when McAndrew found Preen with a defence splitting pass and although Steve did not connect well it was enough to get past the keeper and into the bottom right corner of the net. Roofing were restricted to a few long range efforts with Connell never troubled in the home goal. In the 68th minute McAndrew got in a perfect cross where Goddard in a good position headed straight at the keeper. After 71 minutes a McAndrew corner from the left was cleared to the edge of the area where sub Hepplewhite hit a perfect shot past the keeper to make it 4-0. The game fizzled out from here as both teams understandably started to tire. UTS will be satisfied with their performance but Roofing simply weren't at the races. This game also gave UTS match practice for (hopefully) Saturday's big Vase tie.

UTS: Connell, Pickering, Galbraith, Robson, Cattanach(C), Herring, Harkin, Dixon, Preen, Goddard, McAndrew subs: Burns, Clark, Bell, Hepplewhite, Stephenson

Roofing: Newbrook, Dixon I K, Rodenby, Dixon I, Wardle(C), Oliver, Marshall, Carson, Galer, Watling, Hughes. Subs: Nelson, Croft, Newgent, Armstrong, Welsh

Stats: Attempts UTS 16 JR 4; On Target UTS 9 JR 0; Corners UTS 4 JR 1; Fouls committed UTS 11 JR 11 Offside UTS 8 JR 3

UTSMOM – despite his legs turning to jelly at the end I go for Lee McAndrew

Match Report By Mr David O'Neil

Dunston UTS v Bishop Auckland

2010-11-18T16:02:00.013Z

MATCH REPORT
Tuesday 16th November 2010
Dunston UTS 2
Bishop Auckland 0
Durham Challenge Cup,
Att 120

Dunston entertained Bishop Auckland for a place in the last eight of the Durham Challenge Cup which is scheduled to be played early in the New Year.
Dunston started the game at a tremendous pace and a couple of early runs down the left flank by Lee McAndrew had the visitors on the back foot. It was from one of these runs that Dunston took an early lead when McAndrew went past a defender and crossed into the middle for Steven Preen to come off his marker and flick the ball past goalkeeper Jeffries. This was just the start Dunston needed as Bishops recovered from this setback to push forward in search of an equaliser. The game swung from end to end with both sides totally intent on attacking play and chances were created for both sides. The dangerous Bell and Emson both went close for Bishops whilst McAndrew who was having a fine game for the home side was just off target with a thunderous right foot effort. Bulford for Dunston was thwarted on two occasions by bishops keeper Jeffries as Dunston looked to extend their lead but Bishops also were dangerous when they attacked and it took a great save from Connell to keep out a piledriver from Emson Half time came with Dunston just shading the half and one goal to the good.

The second half proved to be just as exciting as the first as Bishops penned the home team back in their own half. Although they had a greater share of the play Bishops could not find the breakthrough as the Dunston defence held firm. Bishops were desperate for the equaliser but it was Dunston who came closest to scoring on a couple of occasions when some great interplay between Burns and Dixon opened up the visitors defence only for the cross into the box to elude the home forwards. Bishops came closest to equalising when a shot from Emson hit the post and rebounded to safety. Dunston got the much needed second goal ten minutes from time when some great attacking play between Galbraith and Bulford saw Galbraith's pin point cross fired home by Preen. Although the visitors never gave up the home side held on for a victory which they just about deserved.
Both sides played their part in an excellent game played in very heavy conditions.

UTS: L.Connell; J.Burns; M.Robson; B.Cattanach (Capt);
T.Galbraith; M.Hepplewhite; I.Herron ; M.Dixon;
L.McAndrew; S.Preen(sub T.Stephenson); M Hepplewhite
(sub L.Bell); Unused Subs A.Clark; S.Pickering

MOM Great team effort but I thought Michael Robson just shaded it.

MNJ

Dunston UTS v Esh Winning FC

2010-11-09T22:09:00.010Z

MATCH REPORT –
Saturday 6th November 2010
League Fixture
Dunston UTS 4
Esh Winning 1

Dunston entertained Esh Winning who had enjoyed a good victory over Penrith in their previous game whilst Dunston were looking for three points to keep them in the top six in the table.
It was the visitors who began the game in a positive mood and they attacked from the kick off with Nixon and Ward causing the home defence problems. Little was seen from the home forwards as the visitors continued to press and it was no real surprise when an excellent through ball was latched on to by Nixon and he drilled his shot into the bottom corner. Both sides were playing positive football and looking to get in behind the defences but chances were restricted as both sides defended well. Dunston gained an equaliser in the 15th minute when Harkin cut inside from the right and found the bottom corner with a fierce right foot drive. Nixon and Ward were still causing problems for the home defence but Dunston, prompted by Harkin were coming more into the game and some excellent play between Harkin and Dixon created chance for Preen but he was off target with his effort. It was certainly end to end stuff with both sides desperate to get the goal which would take them into the lead at half time. The breakthrough finally came for Dunston a minute before half time when Galbraith played a pass into Hepplewhite who turned his marker to fire in a shot which the keeper saved but Preen was on hand to tap the ball into the net.
Half Time Dunston UTS 2 Esh Winning 1

The second half began as the first with Esh focussed on attacking play as they sought the equaliser. Richardson, who was having a fine game for the visitors, tried his luck from long range but his shot went over the bar. The home side were playing some attractive football and created a good chance when McAndrew beat his man to cross into the middle only for Hepplewhite to stab just wide. Although Dunston were now in command with Dixon dominating the midfield it was going to take a third goal before they could take a breather. The third goal did come courtesy of some excellent play by the home side when Pickering and Harkin created the opening for Harkin to cross to the far post and Dixon was on hand to slot the ball home. This did not deter the visitors and Connell in the home goal made an excellent save from a Richardson pile driver. The game was finally put out of reach of Esh Winning when substitute Goddard won the ball in midfield to release substitute Bulford who fired the ball past the visiting keeper to make the game safe for Dunston.
Although Dunston were deserved winners four goals to one was harsh on Esh Winning who contributed to an excellent game of attacking football by both sides. The only downside on the game was the booking of five players, one deservedly for dissent, when there was not a bad tackle in the whole game which was played in a tremendous spirit.

Team: L.Connell; S.Pickering; L.Bell; B.Cattanach (Capt);
T.Galbraith; F.Harkin; K.Young (sub J.Burns); M.Dixon;
L.McAndrew; S.Preen (sub A.Bulford);
M Hepplewhite (sub S.Goddard);
Unused Subs A.Clark; I.Herron

MOM Michael Dixon

MNJ

Dunston UTS v Houghton Town FC

2010-10-20T20:10:00.011+01:00

Match Report
Durham Challenge Cup R1
Dunston UTS 9 Houghton Town 1
19th October

UTS made sure there was to be no cup upset with a commanding performance against Wearside League Houghton Town tonight. Kicking towards the Car Park End it took until the second minute of the game before Hepplewhite shot on the turn and keeper Patton was forced to save for a corner. After 8 minutes there was a goalmouth scramble at the visiting end and Dixon shot on the turn having his shot blocked, the ball was only half cleared and eventually found Dixon again on the edge of the area and his shot seemed to be heading into the top corner but the keeper made a great save with another corner resulting. A minute later Galbraith cut in from the right and put in a low cross but Hepplewhite just failed to connect at the far post.

The early pressure paid off after 11 minutes when Bulford was played clear of the defence and hit the ball under the advancing keeper giving UTS the lead. 2 minutes later the same player rose well to a cross and headed downwards to see his effort cleared off the line. The game went into a bit of a lull as the pressure temporarily eased for the visitors – after 28 Harkin tried an ambitious 30 yarder which was easily collected by the Houghton keeper. It took until the 33rd minute for the visitors to have their first attempt at goal but they came very close. A free kick from the left was partially cleared and Simon Williamson hit an overhead shot which bounced off the top off the crossbar.

This seemed to shake the home side into action and after 36 they doubled their lead with a true contender for goal of the season. Lee McAndrew collected the ball on the left touchline and with one touch cut inside and unleashed a low shot which screamed into the bottom left corner. 2 minutes later Galbraith received the ball inside the centre circle, ran with it and hit a 35 yarder which dipped too late and was just over the bar. The game was effectively over in the 40th minute when another good run by Galbraith, this time down the left, resulted in a low cross which Bulford converted from close range to make it 3-0. Houghton were now under severe pressure and after 41 Jack Burns delivered a cross from the right which was mis-hit by “Fishy” Herron but was fortunate to see the ball go over a defenders head where Herron once again failed to get an effective connection and the ball went easily into the keeper’s hands. With 2 minutes of the half remaining Burns found Dixon in a good position but the keeper made another amazing save flicking the ball off the bar for a corner. The visitors looked relieved to hear the half time whistle and get a 15 minute reprieve.

The second half continued as the first half had left off with UTS playing some neat passing football and Houghton being forced to chase the game. The fourth goal was scored in the 52nd minute when a right sided corner was met by Ben Cattenach who gave the keeper no chance from close range. It was 5 after 58 when McAndrew, on a good run on the left, seemed to have lost possession but won the ball back before laying back to Hepplewhite who side footed home from about 22 yards. His first goal for UTS (I think!). Houghton pulled one back 5 minutes later when from a free kick near the right touchline centre half Curtis got in a telling touch and scored from inside the area.

I think no-one would begrudge them the goal. Hopes of any kind of fight-back were dashed though when Fergal Harkin provided a pin-point cross for Hepplewhite to head home from 8 yards. Things were to get better for the Dunston no 10 who, after some crisp passing football, was on hand to place the ball past Patton to complete his hat-trick. With 10 minutes to go a low ball into the danger area was dummied and that man Hepplewhite was allowed the space to hit his fourth and Dunston's eighth as the visitors were by now longing for the final whistle. With literally the last kick of the game recent signing Tony Stephenson met a low cross at the far side of the six yard area and made no mistake in sidefooting into the corner of the net for his first goal for the club.

Fortunately the ref decided that stoppage time was unnecessary and we were all allowed to head for the warmth of the clubhouse. There was obviously a gulf in standard between the teams two leagues apart but UTS did what they had to playing some very attractive football on the way and Houghton have to be credited for continuing to fight in a sporting manner when they could have easily lost their heads. I don't feel Billy Town or Whitley Bay will be as generous though.

UTS: Connell, Burns (Pickering), Galbraith, Robson (Bell), Cattanach (Capt), Herron, McAndrew, Dixon, Bulford (Stephenson), Hepplewhite, Harkin
(sub Clark)

Houghton: Patton, Lamb, W Harrison, Curtis (Capt), Fletcher, Gartland, B Harrison, Williamson, Freeman, Curtis, Kennedy
(Subs Keithley, Clarke, Bee, Burdis, Jameson)

Stats Attempts UTS 24 Town 3; On Target UTS 17 Town 1; Corners UTS 9 Town 0; Offside UTS 2 Town 0; Fouls committed UTS 7 Town 4

UTS Man of the match - impossible to pick with so many good performances : Harkin, Galbraith, Macca, Burns to name a few provided good service all night for the strikers but I cannot ignore 4 goals and go for Michael Hepplewhite

Match Report By Mr. Dave O'Neil

Dunston UTS v Consett AFC

2010-10-17T20:26:00.016+01:00

MATCH REPORT –
League Fixture
Saturday 16th October 2010

Dunston entertained top of the table Consett who led the table having lost only twice this season. Manager Billy Irwin had to reckon without injured striker Steven Preen, injured Andy Armstrong and the suspended Michael Dixon. Fergal Harkin replaced Michael Dixon and Stephen Goddard replaced Steven Preen. Consett manager Kenny Lindoe was without the injured Scott Martindale and he was replaced by Kieron Megran,.
Consett were the first to show forcing a corner in the first two minutes which was easily cleared by the home defence. Consett quickly settled in to their passing rhythm and were making Dunston defend although home keeper Connell was never troubled. As Dunston began to come more in to the game they took the lead in the 17th minute. A free kick was awarded 20yards out and Harkin drilled the ball past Consett keeper Poskett..

This goal gave the home side the confidence to press forward and Bulford was very unlucky when he saw Poskett off his line and his lob just cleared the bar. Consett thought they had drawn level when Burns slipped to let in Poole who drove goalwards only for Robson to save the day with a great clearance off the line. Play was now very even with neither side creating many clear chances. As half time approached Consett were having a lot of possession but little penetration to trouble home keeper Connell.

The second half began with Consett on the attack but Dunston looked dangerous going forward and the pace of McAndrew took him clear but his cross into the box was cleared for a corner as Bulford waited to pounce. Dickman and Robson were prominent for Consett but the cutting edge was missing as the home defence dealt capably with their efforts. However Dunston had a let off when keeper Connell failed to punch clear and the header from Burrell bounced the wrong side of the post. Dunston had the final chance to seal the points when McAndrew broke clear to find sub Hepplewhite but as prepared to shoot defender Piecha made a last ditch tackle to save the day. Perhaps on the day, based on possession, Consett may feel that they could have had a point but in a game of very few chances for either side it was Dunston who got the vital goal which earned them a hard fought three points.

Final Score Dunston UTS 1 Consett 0

Team: L.Connell; J.Burns; M.Robson; B.Cattanach (Capt);
T.Galbraith; F.Harkin; K.Young; I.Herron; L.McAndrew;
S.Goddard; A.Bulford
Subs: M Hepplewhite; T.Stephenson; A.Clark
Stephen Pickering

MOM.. Ben Cattanach

MNJ

West Allotment v Dunston UTS FC

2010-10-17T20:13:00.005+01:00

MATCH REPORT
League Fixture
Wednesday 22nd September 2010.

Dunston travelled to West Allotment hoping to extend their winning run and move up the league table. Dunston manager Billy Irwin had to reckon without Cattanach, Goddard and Harkin for tonights game. However keeper Liam Connell had recovered from broken Knuckles and took his place on the substitute’s bench.
Dunston opened brightly and were camped inside the home half for the first ten minutes but the home keeper was rarely troubled. Totally against the run of play Allotment took the lead when Buzzeo made a run from midfield onto a through ball and although keeper Clark saved his shot he was unable to prevent the home player from prodding home the rebound. This setback spurred Dunston into action and Bulford was only inches from an equaliser when he lifted his shot over the bar. Further pressure from Dunston saw them force a succession of corners which were somehow kept out by the home defence. Lee McAndrew for Dunston was causing problems for the visitors and it was from one of his runs that home defender Reid was booked for a cynical foul. It was not all one way traffic and Walton for the home side was a constant threat. Preen for Dunston broke through only for an excellent tackle by Hughes prevented what looked like a certain goal. After all their pressure Dunston found themselves two goals down when slack play in midfield allowed the home side to play in Forster who made no mistake from ten yards.

The second half began with Dunston again pressing forward and creating numerous chances but good defensive work and the off side trap kept them at bay. Michael Dixon headed wide from successive corners and Andrew Bulford had an effort kicked off the line. It looked as if Dunston did manage to get a goal they would get something from the game and they thought that they had pulled one back when McAndrew slid in to poke the ball home from a cross by Hepplewhite. However the goal was ruled out for offside. The ever dangerous Walton was unlucky not to increase the lead when he made a powerful run but his chip over the keeper just went past the post. It summed up the night for Dunston when a mix up between Lee Bell and Andy Clark left Lee Hamilton with a simple tap in to end a miserable night for the away team.
Final Score West Allotment Celtic 3 Dunston UTS 0

Team: A.Clark; S.Pickering; M.Robson; A.Armstrong;
L.Bell; L.McAndrew; M.Dixon(Capt); K.Young;
T.Galbraith; S.Preen; A.Bulford
Subs: M Hepplewhite; J.Burns; D.Shore; L.Connell(G/K)

MOM Hard to say in a disappointing team performance but
for his first half Performance Lee McAndrew

MNJ

Dunston UTS FC v Stokesley

2010-10-15T14:52:00.005+01:00

MATCH REPORT –
Dunston UTS v Stokesley
Tuesday 12th October 2010. ''
League Fixture

Dunston entertained Stokesley who were promoted this season and they included in their management team ex Dunston player and prolific goalscorer Andy Fletcher. Fergal Harkin returned from injury to take his place in the side with recent signing Ian Herron making his debut. Absentees were Stephen Pickering, Andy Armstrong injured and Stephen Goddard, Lee Bell, and Kane Young who were unavailable.
The game started at a very fast pace as both sides looked to gain the advantage in the opening stages. Stokesley were playing a very effective offside trap which caught the Dunston forwards napping. Bulford came close to scoring for the home side when he shot over the bar from a good position.. Stokesley were giving as good as they got and Stewart was always a threat on the left hand side. It was from his cross the Yalcin just failed to connect in front of goal. McAndrew for the home side was having an excellent game and it was from his cross that Dunston took the lead. He skipped past his marker to pin point a cross onto the head of Bulford who made no mistake. Although Stokesley were having their share of the game Dunston always looked threatening when on the attack and it came as no surprise when Bulford beat his marker to blast home and put his side two goals up. Not long after the same player had a chance to complete his hat trick. When he was put clean through by Harkin but the keeper was able to parry his effort to safety. Stokesley were still working hard to get back into the game and the home goal had a let off when Stewart hit the post.

The second half began with Dunston on the attack and McAndrew should have increased their lead but he somehow missed the target from six yards. The same player did increase the lead when he appeared to get the final touch to across from Harkin. Sloppy defending allowed Stokesley to pull a goal back when a misplaced pass allowed Stewart to cross into the box for Hume to fire home. At this stage Stokesley were taking the game to Dunston who spurned chance after chance to wrap up the points. The result was put beyond doubt when Galbraith pulled the ball back for Bulford to fire home and complete his hat trick

Final Score Dunston UTS 4 Stokesley 1

Team: L.Connell; J.Burns; M.Robson; B.Cattanach (Capt);
T.Galbraith; F.Harkin; M.Dixon; I.Herron;
L.McAndrew; S.Preen; A.Bulford
Subs: M Hepplewhite; T.Stephenson; A.Clark

MOM Andy Bulford – three goals but a special mention to Lee McAndrew who was a constant threat.

MNJ

Dunston UTS FC v South Shields

2010-09-29T16:31:00.013+01:00

Northern League

Dunston UTS 3
South Shields 0
Tuesday 28th September 2010

Dunston were looking to bounce back from their F.A. Cup defeat the previous Saturday but manager Billy Irwin who had selection problems due to non availability and injuries naming himself on the bench.
Both sides started brightly looking for the opening goal and it was the visitors who first threatened through the dangerous Winn with an effort that flew past the post. It was Dunston who struck the first blow when a corner was only half cleared to Cattanach who blasted the ball home. This was just the start the home side needed and they almost increased their lead when Jack Burns was unlucky to see his header from a cross by McAndrew hit the post. The visitors were having a lot of possession but any efforts were from long range and well covered by keeper Clark although the visitors Coe was causing problems down the right hand side.. The home side increased their lead when Kane Young intercepted a cross field pass, progressed into the visitors half and from twenty five yards hit an unstoppable shot past visiting keeper Carmichael.
The second half began with Shields pressing the home defence without causing many problems but Dunston suffered a blow when Pickering went off injured to be replaced by a half fit Preen. As it happened the introduction of Preen saw the home side become more of a threat and some fine link up work with Hepplewhite saw the latter just fail to reach the final ball. Further injury was to strike when Young, who began the game not fully fit, collapsed and was replaced by Connell who is normally a goalkeeper. Connell took his place up front alongside Preen for his outfield debut. For a time it was backs to the wall as Shields pressed forward but for all their possession they could not find a breakthrough and a third goal for Dunston put the game beyond their reach. The goal came when Hepplewhite beat his marker with a great piece of skill and unselfishly laid the ball into the path of Connell who fired towards goal only for Dixon to get the final touch. Then Connell had to leave the field to be replaced by manager Billy Irwin who took his place up front with Steven Preen. Probably the oldest ever pairing up front ever in the Northern League, a total of seventy five years,
with Preeny celebrating his birthday.
A good win for Dunston with after the disappointment of their F.A. Cup defeat with the only down side being the injuries to Pickering and Young.

Team: A. Clark; M. Robson; B. Cattanach (Capt); A. Armstrong;
T. Galbraith; L. McAndrew; S. Pickering; J. Burns; M. Dixon;
M. Hepplewhite;
Subs: S. Preen; B. Irwin; L. Connell

MOM An excellent effort by everyone but for me Ben Cattanach

By MNJ

Dunston UTS v Mossley FC

2010-09-29T16:05:00.015+01:00

F.A. CUP 2nd Qualifying Round.
Dunston UTS 1
Mossley 2
Saturday 25th September 2010

Dunston entertained Mossley from the EvoStik League First Division North with hopes of progressing into the third qualifying round and just two games away from the possibility of meeting a championship club. However over the course of the first forty five minutes they proceeded to shoot themselves in the foot. The visitors opened brightly and forced two corners in the first few minutes which were cleared by the home defence albeit not convincingly. The opening goal came when from a harmless looking shot the home goalkeeper decided to dive to make the save and the ball rebounded off his chest to the surprise of visiting striker Oates who gleefully slotted home. The visitors looked the most composed side and Dunston were finding it difficult to get a foothold in the game. Only good defensive work by the home defence restricted the visitors to long range efforts with little seen of the home attack. Further disaster for the home side happened in the 40th minute when Michael Dixon received a second yellow card for a bad challenge on Hare. Down to ten men the home side were facing a massive battle to get back into the game.
The second half began as the first half ended and with Dunston a man down it looked as though the tie would be put beyond their reach when goalkeeper Clark was adjudged to have brought down Fish in the penalty box. However Clark got down well to save the spot kick and keep his team in the tie. With Dunston now pushing the visitors back they began to threaten the away goal with Bulford just wide with a fine effort. Once again poor play allowed the visitors to increase their lead when Fish was not marked from a throw in and he squared the ball to Oates who made no mistake to put his team two goals up. To their credit Dunston did not lie down and they dominated the remainder of the game. First Bulford hit a tremendous shot which was pushed onto the underside of the bar by keeper Collinge only for the ball to bounce to safety. Then Preen broke clear only to appear be impeded in the box but no penalty was given. Then Bulford again was thwarted by the keeper who made an excellent stop with his legs. At this point Dunston were well on top and their defence coped superbly with any visiting attacks. Bulford finally got his reward when he beat the keeper from twenty five yards with a tremendous volley. Then Hepplewhite had two goal bound efforts hacked clear as the visitors defended desperately but to their credit central defenders Watson and Chalmers, who had been tremendous throughout, held them together until the final whistle.

Dunston UTS : A. Clark; S. Pickering; M. Robson;
B. Cattanach (Capt); L. Bell; L. McAndrew; M. Dixon;
K. Young; T. Galbraith; S. Preen; A. Bulford
Subs: M Hepplewhite; J. Burns; D. Shore; L. Connell (G/K)

Mossley: P. Collinge (Capt), B. Richardson, D. Warner,
A. Chalmers, A. Watson, C. Rowney, S. Hare, M. Oates,
M. Fish, D. Weston, L. Blackshaw, M. Jones (For Watson)
D. Egan (For Fish), M. Brickhill (For Blackshaw)

MOM Without a doubt Ben Cattanach

By MNJ

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Norton & Stockton v Dunston UTS FC

2010-09-16T18:36:00.015+01:00

Northern League Cup
Norton & Stockton Ancients 0
Dunston UTS 2
Wednesday 15th September 2010.

Dunston travelled to Norton for this First Round League Cup tie on the back of a fine win in the F.A. Cup against Durham City. Dunston manager had to reckon without Burns, Pickering, Goddard and Harkin and Connell for tonights game. Steven Preen took a place on the subs bench but was not fully fit.
The game began at a lively pace with Norton having a lot of possession but not causing the Dunston defence any bother. Jamie Clarke for Norton played in Andrews for the home side but Ben Cattanach covered well to dispossess the Norton striker. At the other end Lee McAndrew was causing problems with his surging runs and an excellent cross just evaded the on rushing Michael Dixon. The game was evenly balanced with Dunston allowing Norton the greater possession but Dixon and Kane Young were snuffing out any threat from the Norton mid field. Shaun Clarke for the home side came close to opening the scoring when he made a surging run from mid field only for Andy Armstrong to clear the danger with a well timed tackle. Dunston had a chance to take the lead when Dixon played in to McAlindon who fired just over the bar. Norton finished the half strongly forcing three corners but were unable to test the Dunston keeper.

The second half began with Dunston pressing forward and coming more into the game as an attacking force. Although Bulford was ploughing a lone furrow up front he was still a threat to the Norton defence especially when McAndrew made strong runs into the home half. Dunston had a great chance to take the lead when McAndrew made one such run and Bulford was about to shoot from close range only for a home player to make an excellent tackle. Dunston keeper Andy Clark then kept his side in the game when he made a tremendous double save from Clarke and Earl for the home side. With the game evenly poised Dunston took the lead when Bulford was played through the home defence and his pace was taking him clear from two defenders when he was brought down in the penalty box. The same player took the penalty and confidently scored past former Gateshead keeper, Jim Provett. Shortly after there was a bad accident which resulted in Dunston player Michael Robson being unconscious for five minutes and Clark of Norton having to leave the game. When Robson resumed he was obviously still groggy and he was replaced by Danny Shore. Manager Billy Irwin then replaced Gareth McAlindon with forward Michael Hepplewhite and it was not long before the move played dividends. Hepplewhite turned his mark and played a precision pass into Bulford who beat his marker, skipped past the goalkeeper and rolled the ball into an empty. Norton tried hard to get back into the game but Dunston were in no mood to let their lead slip and restricted their opponents to long range efforts.

Team: A. Clark; M. Robson; A. Armstrong; B. Cattanach (Capt);
L. Bell; G. McAlindon; M. Dixon; K.Young; T. Galbraith;
L. McAndrew; A. Bulford

MOM Hard to say in a fine team performance but for his selfless running and two goals it has to be Andy Bulford

By MNJ

Dunston UTS FC v Billingham Town

2010-04-13T21:34:00.019+01:00

13th April 2010
Dunston UTS FC 4 ( Bulford 3, Harkin )
Billingham Town 0
League Fixture, Att 105

Dunston eventually ran out comfortable winners on Tuesday, keeping up their slim chance of second in the league but at the same time increasing the pressure on Town. It was the visitors who had the first chance in the opening minute when French received the ball in space but hurried his shot off target. UTS took the lead after 5 minutes though when a cross from the left found Bulford whose first effort from a difficult angle was blocked by keeper Hamilton at the near post but the ball came straight back to Bully who made no mistake from the rebound.

After 12 minutes a good move on the right involving Harkin and Bulford ended with McAndrew hitting over from the edge of the area. It looked certain for 2-0 after 18 when a cross from McAndrew found Bulford 8 yards out who headed downwards but Hamilton made a great low save. It was one way traffic early on and Harkin put in a telling cross to the far post where Crossman had no option but to head just wide of his own goal for a corner. The resulting corner was headed by Galbraith into the path of Chris Laws whose header was once again well saved by Hamilton. To be honest when some of us first saw the keeper we thought he didn't look up to much but he was certainly proving us wrong.

Bulford Nets Dunston's First

This corner found Michael Laws who headed over from 6 yards. The pressure from the home team decreased as the half went on and Town were getting back into the match without ever really looking threatening. Most of the home fans went into the club-house at half time thinking that one goal was not enough reward for the first half performance.

UTS started the second half the better and after 50 minutes thought they had increased their lead when from a free kick Laws managed to force yet another great save from Hamilton when the keeper managed to flick the ball against his own bar and away from a corner. The corner was headed to Bulford who hit over from close range. A minute later the visitors had a free kick on the half way line which looked harmless but found its way to French at the far post who headed wide. Then UTS hit back when McAndrew cut in from the right and tried to cleverly chip Hamilton but the ball ended up safely in the keeper's hands. Billingham then had good period of possession and a cross from the right was hit first time by Clarke but across the face of the goal and wide. Then Galbraith and Harkin linked well on the left producing a cross for McAndrew to head over.

Town were snatching at any chance they could get and French tried his luck from long range but was off target. After 68 UTS finally got the goal to give them a cushion - a cross into the area seemed to pinball around the danger area before Harkin's close range effort seemed to hit off the keeper and in. The game was all over after 77 when an attempted header back to his keeper by Riley (I think) was intercepted by Bully who flicked the ball past the keeper and in. Town still pushed forward but by now were running out of time and they were punished further in the last minute when Bulford's pace opened the defence and he hit hard and low past the keeper who was not getting just reward for his earlier heroics. The chances were eventually going to tell for UTS - Town played some bright football at times but seemed to fall short in the final third. I wish them the best of luck for the remaining important games.

UTS: Connell, Burns, Galbraith, Robson(C), Cattanach, M Laws, Harkin, McAlindon, C Laws, Bulford, McAndrew (subs: Preen, Clark, Dixon, Tarrant)

Town: Hamilton, Whensley, Riley, Donachie, Crossman, Boynton, Bath, Clarke(C), Dalton, Wray, French (subs: Dunwell, Lawson, Thompson, Rea)

Stats: Attempts UTS 17 Town 9; On Target UTS 9 Town 0; Fouls committed UTS 14 Town 8; Offsides UTS 2 Town 1; Corners UTS 9 Town 2

Travelling Wilbury's Man of the Match - with 15 minutes to go Terry Galbraith was looking favourite but it is impossible to look past hat-trick man Andy Bulford

Match Report By Mr David O'Neil
Pictures By Ken Fitzpatrick

Penrith v Dunston UTS FC

2010-04-12T11:14:00.006+01:00

10th April 2010
Penrith 1
Dunston UTS 3, Bulford, Harkin, Preen.
League Fixture.

Dunston enjoyed a successful first ever visit to the new and very scenic new home of Penrith. It didn't look that way at first as the home side were quicker at getting into their stride and Graham Anthony and Daniel Robinson both had half chances without really testing Connell in the UTS goal. It took 8 minutes for UTS to get forward when a ball from the right beat everybody in the middle and found Fergal Harkin on the left corner of the edge area who placed a perfect shot into the bottom right and the visitors had snatched a lead. It could have been doubled within a minute when from a Connell clearance Bulford's pace left the defence stranded and he tried to head over the advancing keeper but Holland managed a great save. The home side came close to leveling matters after 20 when big Wayne Robertson rose well 10 yards out and headed over the top of Connell but Cattanach made a saving clearance off the line. UTS had a sniff of a chance 7 minutes later when the home keeper was forced to rush out and give away a throw in and before he could get back into position Bully found McAndrew with a quick throw and Macca tried an effort from an almost impossible angle which went across the face of the goal and to safety. Shortly afterwards Daniel Robinson went on a solo run, beat two men before getting into the area but could not get his final effort on target. Despite having the greater of the possession the home side went in behind although it has to be said that the clearer chances were falling to UTS.

UTS started the second half the brighter and were now getting more of their share of possession and were pushing Penrith back. They wasted a glorious chance to double their lead when a mistake in the home defence let in McAndrew whose first time effort was well off target. After 56 Bulford went on a good run on the left, reached the goal-line and put in a dangerous cross which was headed over for a corner. UTS did not have to wait long though and on the hour McAndrew skinned a defender on the left and got in a pin-perfect cross which Preenie headed home from six yards. The home side then had a good period of play and after 73 minutes Connell was forced into two great saves, the second of which from Robinson with a goal looking a certainty. The game was beyond any doubt after 79 when some good passing work involving Burns and McAndrew resulted in Bulford finding space on the right side of the area and giving the keeper no chance with a low drive. The home supporters looked a little bemused by the theme to "Bullseye" ringing out from their stand! With time running out for the home side Graham Anthony hit a low 35 yard free kick which took a wicked reflection but Connell again made a telling save. With just over a minute to go though the same player gained some revenge when he hit another 30 yard low drive which beat everyone - I am not sure if Liam saw it late but just seemed to be stranded as the ball found the bottom left and Penrith probably deserved a consolation goal. A good day out and an excellent set-up at Penrith.

Penrith: Holland, Wilson, Lea, Pattinson, Robertson, Davidson, Dan Robinson, Anthony, Daniel Robinson, Law, Douglas (subs: Brown, Jones, Gray, Thornton)

UTS: Connell, Burns, Galbraith, Robson, Cattanach, M Laws, Harkin, McAlindon, Preen, Bulford, McAndrew (subs C Laws, Clark, Bagnall, Billy Irwin (Jnr))

Stats: Attempts Penrith 17 UTS 9; On Target Penrith 9 UTS 6; Fouls committed Penrith 4 UTS 12; Corners Penrith 3 UTS 2; Offside Penrith 1 UTS 2

Pavillion Posse Man of the Match - Jack Burns

Match Report By Mr David O'Neil

Dunston UTS FC v South Shields

2010-03-21T12:42:00.013Z

20th March 2010
Dunston UTS FC 2
South Shields 0
Northern League Fixture. Attendance 118

.
Dunston were down to the bare bones today - with only one outfield sub Billy Irwin was forced to name himself on the bench. McAlindon, Michael Laws and Terry Galbraith were all forced into a make shift defence. It was the visitors that started the better having the majority of the possesssion in the early stages.

A six minute corner was headed into the path of Craig Tate who appeared to have flicked home but his effort was cleared off the line. Dunston's first chance came after ten minutes when McAndrew beat the offside trap on the left , crossed low for Mick Laws to lay back for Tarrent whose shot was blocked for a corner.
Despite the heavy conditions it took 15 minutes for the first foul of the game but what a foul it was, from a throw in on the right big David Graham elbowed Chris Laws for no apparent reason and the ref had no option but to blow for a penalty unfortunately for UTS Chris's brother Mick was unfortunately off target with his spot kick and Shields had a reprieve.

Michael Laws Penalty goes wide

It was now an even game and after twenty minutes Ramsey went on a good move on the right and hit a low cross to which Tate got the deftest of touches but hit straight at Connell in the home goal, after 40 minutes UTS missed a golden chance, when after some good work by McAndrew, Bulford chose a low diving header which went literally inches wide of the post (see pic below) South Shields then had a similar chance when Wightman crossed for Scroggins to head just wide, in stoppage time Tate got on target for the visitors which was never going to trouble Connell, an even half and the level score line was fair.

Above, Andrew Bulford heads just wide of the goal.

----- Second Half -----

Shields started the second half brightly and UTS were back on foot early on, they wasted a good chance after 48 minutes when after what looked like a foul Tate was played clear and would not of been happy missing the target. After 51 minutes the home team semi cleared the ball where Scroggins tried an ambitious 35 yarder of the the bar.

Michael Laws clears the ball

Then South Shields looked as if they might take the lead when Tate rose unmarked at the far post but Connell pulled off a brilliant save for a corner, from the corner thou UTS broke away an Bulford hit a precision pass for McAndrew who rounded the keeper but with his left foot htit the side of the netting. ( see pic below)..

McAndrew rounds the keeper in vain

After the early second half pressure from Shields UTS gradually made their way back into the game and after 61 minuted McAndrew laid the ball back for Galbraith whose shot/cross only he will know was just wide with Bulford failing to connect at the far post. After 67 minutes there was a frantic goal mouth scramble in the Shields goal with Chris Laws and Tarrent both having shots blocked and finally Bulford flicking the ball saftely into the hands of Nikki Lawson. Then in most identical moves keeper Lawson made two amazing saves from Bulford the second of which looked a ceratin goal as Bulford flicked goalward from close range the keeper made a lighting reaction save with his foot with corner resulting. After 73 minutes Galbraith recieved the ball 25 yards out with his back to the goal, shot on the turn but was well over.

Dunston finally took the lead with 15 minutes remaining - a right sided corner from Galbraith found Bulford in space who made no mistake with header from six yards out (see pic below). Shields pushed forward in search of an equaliser after 84 minutes Scroggins went on a good run and his first effort was blocked by new boy Tait and the same player could only push the rebound at the keeper with Tait once again making a telling challenge.

Bulford nets Dunston's first goal

The game was beyond doubt as stoppage time approached - McAndrew was played clear on the right from a brilliant Tarrent pass and although Lawson got a good deal on the ball Maccas effort continued into the bottom left corner and there was no time left for Shields.

McAndrews ball crosses the line for Dunston's second

Referee.. Mr G. Hart (Darlington)

Assis Refs.. Mr M. Hobson & Mr A. Powles (Both Stockton)

Dunston... Connell, Tait, Galbraith, McAlindon, Cattanach (C),

M. Laws, McAndrew, Burns, C. Laws, Bulford, Tarrent,

Subs.. Bagnall, Clarke, Irwin.

Shields.. Lawson, Paxton, Graham, O'Brien, Oates, Armstrong, Wightman, Scroggins (C), Ramset, Tate, Feasey,

Subs.. Carmichael, Ellison, Fitzpatrick, Stephenson, Brabbs.

Stats.. Attempts UTS 16 S.S 19, On Target UTS 10 S.S 6,

Corners UTS 8 S.S 4, Fouls Committed UTS 7 S.S 4,

Offside UTS 5 S.S 2.

Ultra Travelling Squad Man Of The Match.. A difficult one with McAndrew, Galbraith, C. Laws and Tait all getting votes but the Chairmans casting vote giving it to Ben Cattanach.

Also can i mention Mr Martin from Hartleppol who let the game flow well (11 fouls) in difficult conditions.

Match Report By Mr Dave O'Neil

Pictures By. Mr K. Fitzpatrick

.
For more pictures of this game please visit

http://www.flickr.com/photos/kenfitzpatrick/collections/72157621175098533/

Dunston UTS FC v Ryton FC

2010-03-21T12:29:00.014Z

Northern League
9th March 2010
Dunston UTS 1
Ryton 0,
Northern League Fixture,
Att 108

Dunston had to work hard for three points tonight, the pitch was once again very heavy (in saying that i must add that it is a credit to the ground staff to get a second game on in a few days.
The game started slowly with the home side having slighlty more possesssion but neither side managing to create a chance eraly on. I took upto the elevnth minutefor the first shot of the match when Dixon recieved the ball in a promising position for the visitors and although his shot was on target it was a routine save for Connell.

It took until the quarter hour for the home team to have a decent chance when Lee McAndrew went on a good run on the right and his cross into the danger zone was headed back to Terry Galbraith who hit on the half-volley but wide. The game was just starting to get going and 3 minutes later the visitors were awarded a free-kick in a dangerous position and Allsop bent his kick around the wall towards the right but Connell caught easily. Then McAndrew's pace again caused problems on the right and his low cross was well cleared by Ryan Bell for a corner when he could easily have found his own net. After 25 minutes came the games closest chance to date when from a right sided corner the ball reached Bulford who despite being only a yard our could not force the ball over the line (although there was a suspicion he had used his arm). O'Bern then played in McAndrew who cut inside and then out before delivering a low cross which was cut out and cleared. Ryton then went through a good period when they put the home team on the back foot for the last 15 minutes of the half. They went close when Bailes got in a good header at the far post from a corner but his effort was blocked on the line. As the half came to a close UTS suffered a blow when O'Bern had to go off injured and was replaced by Burns. It was the home side who almost when ahead deep into stoppage time when Galbraith put Dixon clear but his shot was blocked for a corner. The corner was headed just off target by Cattanach and the teams went in level - with chances rare it looked like one goal could win it.

UTS started the second half well and within a couple of minutes of the restart Pickering found himself in a good position on the edge of the area but was well off target with his shot. The only goal of the game came on 53 minutes - the move started on the right with McAndrew whose cross beat everyone in the centre but found Galbraith on the left, Terry beat a defender and put in a perfect cross for Bulford to head home from close range giving French no chance in the visiting goal. This was Bully's third goal in successive matches against his former club. Ryton were getting their fair share of possession but weren't creating clear chances and the game should have been effectively over after 73 when Bulford's pace left the defence stranded but keeper French got enough on his shot to see the ball hit the outside of the post. One goal is never enough and with 5 minutes remaining Bailes put in a shot/cross which Connell had to flick over the bar for a corner. The keeper was then again forced into action as he had to parry the resulting corner from just under his crossbar.

UTS hit on the break in stoppage time when McAndrew went on another good run before laying the ball back to Pickers who had his effort well saved by French. Overall UTS probably deserved their three points but were pushed all the way by a resilient Ryton team

UTS: Connell, Pickering, Bell, O'Bern (Burns 45), Cattanach(C), M Laws, McAndrew, Dixon, Tarrant, (C Laws 88), Bulford (Harkin 75), Galbraith (subs Clark, McAlindon)

Ryton: French, Bell, Bailes, Innes, Preston(C), Parker, Allsop (Aiston 82), Robson, Dixon, Patton, Burrell (subs Brown, Milner)

Stats: UTS 13 Ryton 8; On target UTS 5 Ryton 5; Corners UTS 3 Ryton 5; Offsides UTS 3 Ryton 2; Fouls committed UTS 18 Ryton 7

UTSMOM - the possee were fairly unanimous with Lee McAndrew who caused the visiting defence problems all night

Match Report By Mr Dave O'Neil

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20th February 2010. Dunston UTS 3 Horden CW 0

Dunston were forced to grind out 3 points today in very difficult conditions at the UTS stadium today. A heavy overnight frost had thawed leaving the pitch very heavy and that bit in front of the dugouts very hard. UTS took no time in creating the first chance when after 45 seconds Harkin and Preen combined well before laying the ball back to Dixon who hit well over the bar. It was obvious though that chances were going to be hard to come by - UTS were trying to utilise both wings but the conditions were making the final ball harder - the visitors were trying a more direct approach and although threatening less they were always going to be in with a chance. It took until the 24th minute for the next chance of any note when a left side corner kick from Harkin found Galbraith who flicked his header wide. After 28 minutes the home side should have been ahead - a good cross from Galbraith found Tarrant in space and his header was flicked by keeper Shields against the crossbar and the rebound fell to Preen whose goalbound effort was cleared off the line by Tom Gavin with a corner resulting. With 5 minutes of the half remaining it was the visitors who spurned a good chance when they had a two on one break which ended in Brightwell cutting inside but from a good scoring chance hit his effort weakly at Connell in the home goal. Then Horden were awarded a free kick in a dangerous position on the edge of the area for an off the ball foul by Mick Laws - Captain Stephen Thomas bent his kick around the wall but Connell saved easily. A half of very few opportunities - the Tarrant crossbar/Preen rebound being the only real chance.

The second half continued in similar fashion with the home side having the greater of the possession but it was a war of attrition. Horden had a chance after 55 when Liam Beeston beat keeper to the ball and with the keeper stranded hit into the danger area but Ben Cattanach headed to safety. On 59 minutes though UTS took the lead when Preen received the ball inside the area, turned and left the defender standing and despite being fouled laid the ball back for Tarrant to hit the roof of the net from close range. A minute later we almost saw a carbon-copy of the goal when Preen, again from the left, beat a defender and hit low where Tarrant this time hit just wide. It was beginning to become a little one sided and after 74 keeper Shields totally missed a through ball allowing Preen a shot at goal - although he had to stretch Preenie would have been disappointed to see his effort hit off the post. Then, after 76, Horden were awarded a free kick in what looked like a harmless position on the half way line - the ball was floated high into the area where Chris Dunwell rose well and headed over the keeper and the visitors were level. Their joy was short lived though as UTS hit straight back and Fergal Harkin was left unmarked from a left-sided cross and although the keeper got a good hand to it the ball crossed the line and it was 2-1. The game should have been over after 83 when Preen beat the offside trap, dummied the keeper but hit his shot wide of the post. 2 minutes later though the game was handed on a plate to UTS. Keeper Shields collected the ball about a yard inside his area and in an effort to get the ball away quickly, carried the ball outside his area and the linesman (yes I still call them linesmen) was in a perfect position to spot the offence. The mistake was punished even further when Harkin bent his free kick around the wall and even though the keeper tried to make amends he could only parry the shot into the roof of the net and the game was just about over. UTS took their foot off the pedal but Horden could threaten no more and a hard earned 3 points were finally in the bag.

UTS: Connell. Pickering, Bell, Robson(C), Cattanach, M Laws, Harkin, Dixon, Preen, Tarrant, Galbraith (Subs Laws, Clark, McAndrew, Burns, O'Bern)

Horden: Shields, Atkinson, Gavin, Pearson, Dunwell, Hyson, Beeston, Thomas(C), Brightwell, Shingleton, L'Anson (Subs Pounder, Morris, Arthur, Nicholson, Atkinson)

Stats: Attempts UTS 14 HC 5; On Target UTS 5 HC 3; Corners UTS 5 HC 3; Fouls Committed UTS 19 HC 9; Offside UTS 5 HCW 3

Attendance 103

UTSMOM - Even without his 2 goals Fergal Harkin caused the visitors trouble all afternoon.

Match Report By Mr Dave O'Neil

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26th January 2010, Dunston UTS v Whitley Bay

League Fixture, Att 281

UTS against the odds pulled off an amazing comeback against FA Vase holders Whitley Bay at the UTS stadium tonight. Despite 3 games in 8 days the pitch was still holding out well. The home side kicked towards the Car Park End but it was the other end of the ground which saw the most action. Bay had an early chance when the home defence only half cleared a cross into the path of Hodgson who didn't connect well and seemed to flick his effort over the bar. The visitors did not have to wait long before they took the lead though - a low pass was played to Paul Chow about 22 yards out - there didn't appear to be much danger but the forward hit first time into the top left giving Connell no chance. UTS were finding things difficult having to hit long balls into the area which was playing into the hands (or should I say heads) of the visiting defence. With Bay getting the better of the midfield battle there seemed to be little alternative. After 11 minutes some sharp passing football from the visitors resulted in Robinson getting into a good position on the left and although his shot was well struck Connell saved. It took until the 24th minute for Dunston to have their first chance when the ball was cleared to Micky Laws a good 25 yards out who hit low and hard but Kindley in the away goal got everything behind it. Within seconds Whitley moved the ball from one end of the field to the other and a low cross from the right was hit first time by Kerr but was just wide with his effort. It could have easily been 2-0 after 28 when Chow again found good space in the area and hit with the outside of his right but saw his shot come off the woodwork. The first 30 minutes had been all Whitley but in an almost mirror image of Saturday's game Dunston started to get a foothold in the game - although they were still not threatening. Bay had a bit of a scare after 30 when keeper Kindley only parried a corner kick into his own 6 yard area and would have been relieved to see the defence clear. After 32 UTS had a rare effort when Terry Galbraith went on a good run on the left and found Calvin Smith with a crossfield ball, the latter hit first time but despite taking a deflection the ball went straight at Kindley. Then Harkin produced a good piece of trickery beating two defenders before trying a shot from the edge of the area which was again well saved by the Bay Keeper. Despite not being it the game for the first 30 minutes the last 15 of the half provided some hope for the home team and as on Saturday we were again saying that one goal is never enough at this level.

UTS started the second half brightly - the visiting defence seemed to be caught cold allowing Galbraith into a good position and Kindley was once again brought into action. Just as we were thinking that UTS would apply some pressure a wicked bounce on halfway resulted in Bay breaking down the right and crossing perfectly for Johnston who made no mistake. An uphill task for the home side had suddenly become steeper but within seconds Bulford received the ball with his back to the goal, hit on the turn but just wide. The second half was a lot closer than the first but to be honest there still did not look much sign of a Dunston fightback - after 58 minutes though they were awarded a free kick on the sideline which was hit into the danger zone where Chris Laws was on hand to flick home from close range. UTS were now showing signs of belief and after 61 Bulford ran onto a through ball but his shot was deflected and straight into the hands of the keeper. Bay were now starting to look vulnerable and the keeper palmed a corner into the danger area which was cleared and from another corner Bulford rose well and perhaps should have done better but saw his header hit the crossbar. UTS were level after 76 - they were awarded a free kick in what looked a harmless position but was played short to Harkin who ran about 10 yards before unleashing a 25 yard effort past the keeper. Bay then went close from a 40 yard effort (I'm sorry I could not see by whom) which took a vicious bounce and Connell was forced to parry the ball. With time running out Bay went close with a free kick although the flag was up but unnoticed by the ref. Within seconds Bulford was played clear on the left and his pace got him clear of the Bay defence but he could not control and hit over the keeper and the bar. On 90 minutes an unlikely comeback became an unbelievable one when Harkin caused problems on the right before cutting inside and finding Calvin Smith who, in an almost Carbon-Copy of the first goal of the match, struck the ball high past the keeper and it was 3-2 Dunston. There was just enough time for Bay to hit a couple of hopeful high balls into the area but the whistle ended a remarkable game. I said we were mugged on Saturday so understand how the Bay must be feeling. Nevertheless it took a lot of character to execute such a comeback against such as fine side as Whitley Bay.

UTS: Connell, Boyle, Bell, Robson, Cattanach, Laws, Harkin, Smith, Laws, Bulford, Galbraith (subs McAndrew, Clark, Burns Dixon)

WB: Kindley, Timmons, Fawcett, Hodgson, Coulson, Ryan, Moore, Robson, Chow, Kerr, Robinson (subs Bell, Anderson, Johnston, McFarlane, Picton)

Stats: Attempts: UTS 11 WB 9; On Target UTS 6 WB 5; Corners UTS 8 WB 3; Fouls Committed UTS 15 WB 9

UTS MoM - almost unanimously decided by the Dunston Irish Club - Fergal Harkin

Match Report By Mr Dave O'Neil