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JARROW ROOFING 2, BISHOP AUCKLAND 4

Bishops struggled, but ultimately overcame lowly Jarrow Roofing with three good goals, and one fortunate one.

The visitors were ahead early when Stephen Salvin flicked a header back from a corner, and two Roofing defenders combined to bundle the ball into the net.

Peter Jeffries run without conceding a goal ended just before half time, after over 400 minutes of football, and the sides went in at the interval level.

Darren Richardson restored the Bishops lead just after the break with a fine low shot, and Craig Hodgson scored his first goal for the club to establish a 3-1 lead.

Another roofing goal ten minutes from time raised the tension levels, but Andy Johnson scored in injury time to end the contest.

Bishops move up to 7th in the league.

Full match report to follow.

BISHOP AUCKLAND 2, SHILDON 0

Northern League Division One

Saturday, 18th February, 2012

Bishop Auckland 2, Shildon 0

PICTURES

MATCH REPORT

Team: Peter Jeffries / Phil Shead / Danny Parker / Robbie Clarkson / Adam McLane / Darren Richardson / Craig Hodgson / Stephen Salvin (capt) / Dan Hawkins / Andy Johnson / Gareth Ayers

After a couple of Saturdays off due to the wintry weather and a midweek friendly at Silksworth in aid of the Help for Heroes charity, Bishops returned to league action, welcoming near neighbours Shildon to Heritage Park for the 120th Northern League derby between the two clubs.

Manager Colin Myers named an unchanged starting eleven from the team that had battered Billingham Town three weeks earlier. The ever dependable Peter Jeffries was making his 150th appearance for the club.

A bright but chilly afternoon in prospect with a blustery westerly wind blowing across the ground posing the question of whether it would be easier to play with or against the wind. Bishops kicked off with the elements at their backs and the low setting sun in the visiting keeper’s eyes.

The home side had much the better of the opening half, creating a number of goal scoring opportunities which lacked the vital touch to break the deadlock.

A superb move down the right saw Andrew Johnson feed Dan Hawkins inside, who in turn found Stephen Salvin. With defenders closing the Bishops captain down he found Craig Hodgson on the right wing. The winger ran to the by line, dribbling past an opponent before rolling a perfect cross along the six yard line inviting a touch that never came.

From a left wing corner, Danny Parker got his head on the ball to send it goalwards but visiting keeper Kinch made a flying save to palm the ball away.

Adam McLane picked up the ball in his own half before setting off on one of his charging runs before feeding Phil Shead in space down the right. The defenders’ pass inside rolled along the six yard line just out of the reach of Johnson and Hawkins but defender McCabe was relieved to see his touch fly just wide of the post.

The chances kept on coming for the home side with Salvin sidefooting an effort just wide of the post as the visiting keeper looked flat footed, but Finch was in action moments later to keep out Johnson’s well struck shot.

A number of other chances were missed before the half time whistle sounded which prompted supporters to question whether Bishops failure to score would prove costly after the break.

As the players headed off the field and many of the 357 crowd headed for the warmth of the function room, the skies turned dark as the edge of a wintry storm passed by overhead.

HT: Bishop Auckland 0, Shildon 0

So, no goals in the opening half for the fifth time in the last six league games but as play restarted the sunshine returned and the visitors finally woke up Jeffries who palmed Steven Johnson’s free header over the bar.

Andy Johnson had already had a shot saved by Finch before he finally opened the scoring in the 52nd minute when his shot from inside the penalty area trundled into the far corner with the keeper well beaten. It was the prolific forward’s 26th league goal of the season.

The visitors finally started to look dangerous on the break but Jeffries was on hand to deny Chapman and then Jeffries and defender McLane knicked the ball off the foot of Chapman inside the Bishops’ penalty area.

The Two Blues doubled their lead in the 63rd minute when Salvin rose to powerfully head home Hawkins’ left wing corner and by then the result was not in doubt.

Finch made an acrobatic save to stop Johnson’s header on the line following a quick move involving Salvin and Hawkins and at the other end, Watson’s curling free kick from the edge of the area went through a sea of legs before going inches past the far post.

To compound the Railwaymen’s miserable afternoon, Ellison, who had already been booked, was shown a straight red card seven minutes from time following a challenge on the hard working Darren Richardson. In the aftermath, Shildon’s assistant manager, Stuart Niven was sent from the dugout following his angry tirade aimed at referee Peart.

The remainder of the game passed without incident and at the final whistle, Bishops had recorded four consecutive wins without conceding a goal, sending statisticians back to the history books to find out when, and indeed if, it had happened before!

Speaking to the Northern Echo after the game, Bishops’ boss, Colin Myers said: “After we got the second goal, we just shut up shop and made it difficult for them to break us down. Our defence is playing really well at the moment”.

Full Time Score:

Bishop Auckland 2 (Johnson, 52’; Salvin, 63’)

Shildon 0 (Ellison, sent off, 83’)

— DE

A WEEKEND OF NOSTALGIA - CELEBRATING 125 YEARS

A WEEKEND OF NOSTALGIA AT HERITAGE PARK

 

BISHOP AUCKLAND FOOTBALL CLUB CELEBRATING 125 YEARS

 

Saturday 10th March

Display of Club Memorabilia in association with  Durham Amateur Football Trust

   Admission £2   Open 10am-5pm   Bar open 12-5pm

 

Q/A with some of the current squad

   Followed by film show of past Amateur Cup/FA Cup highlights 

   Admission £5   Bar open 7.30    Q/A 8pm

 

Sunday 11th March

Bishop Auckland Legends v Bishop Auckland Supporters 

   Admission £2   To play £10   Bar open 12.30pm    Kick off 1pm

 

An evening of nostalgia with guest speakers  - TBC

   Ticket £10   Open 7pm   Food 7.30pm   Speakers 8pm

 

For tickets or further information please contact: 

Colin Myers 07901 943 161 or Kim Fryer 07742 567 700

 

 

Please print out a poster  for the event for display in local bars/shops etc.

 

REFEREES' QUESTION TIME - FRIDAY NIGHT

There are still tickets available for Friday night's Referees' night at Heritage Park.

Doors & Bar open at 6.30pm.  Get a ticket in advance, or just pay on the door.

SHILDON FIXTURE PULLED FORWARD

Bishop Auckland will now play Shildon at Heritage Park this Saturday, 18th February.

Gates will open around 1.30pm for the 3.00pm kick off.

After the game, there will be FA Cup football on the big screen with Sunderland vs Arsenal from 5.15pm.

FEBRUARY FIXTURES UPDATE

February looks like being a month of fixture disruptions.  Having already lost away games at Jarrow Roofing and Spennymoor Town due to the weather on the last two Saturday's, we have now also lost our only home game of the month against Ashington on Saturday 18th, also due to the weather, but this time because Ashington have re-arranged their postponed FA Vase tie for that date.

At the moment, our fixtures are as follows:

Saturday 11th February - Stokesley (Away).  If Stokesley match is postponed, there will be a friendly at Bobby Robson Centre, Ushaw Moor against Brandon British Legion at 1pm - free admission.

Wednesday 15th February - Silksworth Rangers (Away).  Friendly to raise funds for "Help For Heroes".  7.30pm kick off at Silksworth Welfare Park, Bob Gurney Memorial Ground, SR3 1AX

Saturday 18th February - Shildon (Home) now replaces Ashington (Home).

Tuesday 21st February - Jarrow Roofing (Away).

Saturday 25th February - currently no fixture scheduled.

BISHOP AUCKLAND 5, BILLINGHAM TOWN 0

Northern League Division One

Saturday, 28th January, 2012

Bishop Auckland 5, Billingham Town 0

PICTURES

VIDEO (Andy Johnson's Penalty)

VIDEO (Highlights)

MATCH REPORT

Team: Peter Jeffries / Phil Shead / Danny Parker / Robbie Clarkson (Darren Atkinson, 86’) / Adam McLane / Darren Richardson (Nick Lyons, 62’) / Craig Hodgson / Stephen Salvin (capt) / Dan Hawkins / Andy Johnson / Gareth Ayers (Arran Wearmouth, 67’)

After a cold frosty night, Bishops welcomed Billingham Town to Heritage Park on a sunny January afternoon. The combination of strategically placed protective tarpaulins and weak sunshine meant that the pitch was playable although one area looked somewhat heavy.

Bishops had not conceded a goal in their previous two league outings and had not conceded a league goal at home for just over two months! With the opposition hovering just above the relegation zone, hopes were high that the run would continue and the players would give a better account of themselves than in the disappointing draw at Bedford Terrace in August.

Colin Myers made just one change from the team that had beaten Norton & Stockton Ancients the previous Saturday. With Adam McLane back from suspension, Arran Wearmouth dropped to the bench, that also included new signings Nick Lyons and Adam Robinson.

Darren Richardson had the first chance of the game when the ball fell kindly to him in the box from a Dan Hawkins corner, but although his shot beat keeper Briggs, the covering defender cleared off the line.

It was the first in a series of unsuccessful efforts on goal by the lively looking Richardson and Andy Johnson was soon threatening with a well struck volley which the visiting keeper did well to keep out.

The home side deservedly took the lead in the twelfth minute when the front two combined superbly to break the deadlock. Hawkins and Johnson had shown great understanding earlier in the season until the partnership was broken through injury, but Hawkins read Johnson’s pass well to side foot his effort into the net. The forward has now scored in four consecutive league games.

Billingham Town came more into the game as the half wore on and the ever dependable Peter Jeffries was brave to save low down as two forwards converged towards him.

Nonetheless, it was the Two Blues who were controlling the game and as the clock ticked into first half injury time, Johnson doubled the home side’s advantage when McLane stepped over a Hawkins through ball and the prolific forward scored his first goal in 2012.

Referee Keogh had already caused some amusement in asking for the Heritage Park floodlights to be switched on despite most players, and the match officials, shielding their eyes from the winter sunshine.

HT: Bishop Auckland 2, Billingham Town 0

Bishops looked comfortable at the interval and the result was never in any doubt following the opening skirmishes after the break.

Dunwell deservedly saw red for pulling down Johnson just inside the area and after the defender trudged off the field, Johnson calmly converted the spot kick.

Hawkins was twice foiled from adding a fourth, first by a defender’s block and then a good save from Briggs. But Johnson could not be denied as he secured his hat-trick before the hour when he controlled a through ball into the box, turned his defender and side footed the ball into the net as the visiting keeper sat on the ground.

Both teams made their full allocation of substitutions with Lyons making his Auckland debut with half an hour left and from a rare Billingham attack, Jeffries back-peddled and stretched to pull off a tremendous save to maintain a clean sheet.

At the other end, Bishops continued to press, and despite already conceding four, visiting keeper Briggs had an inspired half hour as he made a string of superb saves to keep out a fifth. When he was finally beaten, Hawkins’ shot thumped off the foot of the post before being hacked to safety.

But the home side were not to be denied and Johnson netted his fourth and the teams fifth deep in added time. With the performance, AJ moved on to 25 league goals and became the first player to score four in a fixture at Heritage Park.

As the final whistle went, the Bishops statisticians hit the record books. Three clean sheets in a row — the first since 1993 when Chorley, Gainsborough Trinity and Whitley Bay were kept out in consecutive games. Johnson’s four goals in a league fixture was the first since January 2000 when Danny Brunskill scored all four in a 4-0 win over Colwyn Bay.

An excellent performance and another three points keep Bishops in ninth place in the league table.

Full Time Score:

Bishop Auckland 5 (Hawkins, 12’; Johnson, 45’+1, (p) 48’, 56’, 90’+2)

Billingham Town 0 (C Dunwell, sent off, 47’)

— DE

HATHAWAY ROOFING EXTEND WEBSITE SPONSORSHIP

BAFC are delighted to announce that Hathaway Roofing have extended their sponsorship of www.bishopafc.com through 2012.

The website attracted a record number of hits in 2011, pushing through the 70,000 barrier, and continues to go from strength to strength providing followers of Bishop Auckland FC will all the news from Heritage Park.

LIVE MUSIC ON SATURDAY - HERITAGE PARK OPEN 12.30

Heritage Park will be open early and closing late on Saturday with entertainment planned for before and after the match.

Gates will open at 12.30pm with the big FA Cup clash between Liverpool and Manchester which kicks off on the big screen at 12.45pm.

After the main event - Bishop Auckland vs Billingham Town at 3pm - there will be live music from "Man With The Stick" starting around 6pm.

The live music event is free admission, so even if you can't make the match it would be great to see you along for the evening.

BISHOP AUCKLAND 2, NORTON & STOCKTON ANCIENTS 0

Northern League Division One


Saturday, 21st January, 2012


Bishop Auckland 2, Norton & Stockton Ancients 0


PICTURES


VIDEO (Dan Hawkins Penalty)


MATCH REPORT

Team: Peter Jeffries / Phil Shead / Danny Parker / Robbie Clarkson / Stephen Salvin (capt) / Darren Richardson / Arran Wearmouth / Craig Hodgson / Dan Hawkins / Andy Johnson / Garteh Ayres


Following the midweek friendly against Sunderland Reserves, Bishops returned to league action looking to build on their win the previous weekend at Bedlington Terriers. The Two Blues welcomed Norton & Stockton Ancients as Heritage Park saw its first league match in six weeks.


With the suspension of Adam McLane, Bishop Auckland manager Colin Myers was forced to make one change bringing in Arran Wearmouth to the starting eleven.


A sunny but very cold afternoon with a gale force wind blowing from the west meant that the attendance of 180 was the lowest at Heritage Park this season. The visitors would have the advantage of the wind in the opening half.


Bishops played well against the elements in the opening forty-five and they created the first chance of the game when Dan Hawkins played a free kick into the Norton box towards Arran Wearmouth, who could only bundle the ball towards goal allowing former Bishops keeper Chris Porter to collect comfortably.


The home side had a good shout for a penalty when Robbie Clarkson lifted a free kick from the centre circle into the visitor’s area towards Craig Hodgson who was clearly held by a defender. Despite the loud appeals, referee Rogers waved away the protests. As he did, the ball fell kindly to Wearmouth, but his fierce shot flew wide of the upright.


At the other end, as Ancients generally struggled to cope with the gusting wind, Peter Jeffries was eventually called on to make a save and he got down well to save Clarke’s low shot.


Despite playing against the wind, Wearmouth was determined to shoot at goal and a couple of his efforts flew wide and a shot from Darren Richardson following an assist from Wearmouth also failed to trouble Porter in the Norton goal.


Andrew Johnson, who netted an astonishing thirty goals before Christmas, was looking for his first in the new year but was able to beat Porter from just inside the box and at the other end, Jeffries once again demonstrated his own fine form when he superbly stretched to tip over a dipping shot from Brown as he broke down the left before unleashing his shot on the edge of the Bishops’ penalty area.


Richardson had the last chance of the half but his fizzing shot flashed across goal to keep the match goalless at the half time interval.


HT: Bishop Auckland 0, Norton & Stockton Ancients 0


For Bishops’ fourth consecutive league game, the second half kicked off 0-0 and with the advantage of the wind, the home side threatened down the left. Gareth Ayres and Johnson combined well before the prolific striker shot across goal only for the ball to fly inches wide of the far post.


The Bishops forward was again in the thick of the action and as Hawkins floated over a corner, Johnson’s header from close range was tipped over the crossbar by Porter.


Norton could have opened the scoring when Nathan Mulligan got to the ball first ahead of both Stephen Salvin and keeper Jeffries but the Norton man’s header lacked real power and as the ball trickled towards goal, Phil Shead raced back to clear off the line.


After both sides missed further chances to score, the opening goal came in surprising fashion with just three minutes of normal time remaining. Almost on the goal line and just inside the Norton penalty area, Ayres floated a cross to the back post and the ball went over Porter before being caught by the wind to drop inside the far post.


Bishops did a good job of controlling the few minutes that remained by taking the ball towards the corner flag and getting a couple of useful deflections to continue the tactic. When the ball broke free, Hawkins surged into the box and went down under the defender’s challenge.


This time, the match official pointed to the spot and Hawkins calmly converted to score his third goal in as many matches.


The final whistle went soon after and Bishop Auckland had secured an excellent league double over Norton. The three points lifts the Two Blues up to ninth in the Northern League table.


Speaking to the Northern Echo after the game, Bishops’ manager Colin Myers said: “It was a good performance by us, especially in the first half. We kept going, and scored twice late in the game”.


Full Time Score:

Bishop Auckland 2 (Ayres, 87’, Hawkins (p), 90’+3)

Norton & Stockton Ancients 0


— DE

JUNIOR FOOTBALL AT HERITAGE PARK - SUNDAY 22ND JANUARY

Bishop Auckland St.Mary's Aces (Under 15s) will be playing Marton FC in Division One of the Teesside Junior Football Alliance at Heritage Park on Sunday 22nd January, with a 1.30pm Kick Off.

Admission is free. 

REF'S QUESTION TIME

During the match we've all shouted at the ref, questioning his interpretation of the laws of the game. Here is your opportunity to put your questions to a panel of top North East referees (more details to follow), chaired by Terry Farley MBE (Secretary of the Bishop Auckland Referee's Society), as well as hearing some of their stories from their reffing careers.

Friday 17th February at Heritage Park.

First questions at around 7.30 with doors open from 6.30. Food will be available to purchase on the night.

Tickets are £5 each and are available from BAFC club officials, Steve Newcomb and from the club shop. Please email  if you'd like to buy a ticket by post.

BISHOP AUCKLAND 0 SUNDERLAND AFC RESERVES 6

Celebrating 125 Years


Wednesday, 18th January, 2012


Bishop Auckland 0, Sunderland Reserves 6


PICTURES


MATCH REPORT


Team: Peter Jeffries (James Cleminson, 69’) / Craig Hodgson / Gareth Ayres / Lewis Brown (Wayne Clarke, HT) / Danny Parker / Robbie Clarkson (Andy Johnson, 80’) / Darren Richardson (Darren Atkinson, HT) / Stephen Salvin (capt) (David Wells, HT) / Dan Hawkins / Andy Johnson (Steven Turnbull, HT) / Arran Wearmouth


As part of Bishop Auckland FC’s celebration of 125 years of football, Sunderland AFC were welcomed to Heritage Park on a bitterly cold midweek evening.


Despite the visitors having eight young players sent out on loan in the last fortnight and a number of their more established reserve team players out through injury, the youthful squad Keith Bertschin named contained a couple of players with first team experience along with regular reserve team players, academy players and trialists.


An excellent crowd of 738, the biggest since Heritage Park’s opening night, saw a pretty entertaining game with Sunderland’s young side running out comfortable winners as goals came pretty fast in the fifteen minutes after the break.


The game got off to a relatively quiet start and after a low-key opening, Adam Mitchell produced the first chance of note as he twisted and turned in the Bishops’ penalty area only to see his low shot kept out by a fine save from keeper Peter Jeffries.


At the other end, Andrew Johnson brought out a good save from Lewis King, but it was the visitors who looked more lively upfront as first Roarie Deacon and then Adam Mitchell were denied by decent stops from the ever dependable Peter Jeffries.


The visitors took the lead just after the half hour when, whilst the crowd were still applauding another good save from Jeffries, Adam Mitchell seized possession in midfield before advancing into the penalty area and powering a low shot into the far corner that gave the Bishops’ keeper no chance.


HT: Bishop Auckland 0, Sunderland Reserves 1


Bishops’ boss Colin Myers made a series of planned changes at half-time. Lewis Brown, Darren Richardson, Stephen Salvin and Andrew Johnson came off to be replaced by Steven Turnbull, Wayne Clarke, Darren Atkinson and David Wells.


The introduction of four substitutes necessitated a juggling of the Bishops’ team and they really failed to get to grips with Sunderland’s youngsters in the opening quarter of the second period.


Seven minutes after the restart, Adam Mitchell struck again to double the lead, stepping beyond a defender to drive the ball into the net with Peter Jeffries flat footed.


The contest effectively ended just two minutes later as the makeshift Bishops’ defence struggled to cope with the young professionals’ play and Jaden Hall added a third as the Bishops’ keeper uncharacteristically fumbled.


Peter Jeffries was unable to do anything about the fourth goal, which came just two minutes later as Craig Lynch skilfully turned his man before wrong footing the keeper as his shot rolled into the far corner of the net.


The match quietened down for about ten minutes until the Bishops keeper pulled off a superb double save to thwart the visitor’s frontman but he could do little to prevent a fifth Sunderland goal when Adam Mitchell’s corner was partially cleared to Roarie Deacon who fired home a stunning volley.


Jeffries was replaced in goal by James Cleminson but the young substitute was denied a twenty minute clean sheet when Adam Mitchell completed a well taken hat-trick when he turned quickly in the box and blasted the ball into the roof of the net from 12 yards with fifteen minutes still to go.


Andrew Johnson replaced Robbie Clarkson with ten minutes to go as Bishops searched to give the Two Blues supporters something to cheer about, and the forward caused some trouble in defence but was unable to create a clear cut chance.


Speaking after the game, Colin Myers said: “It was a game of two halves, and we did very well in the first half. Things changed a little after the break with all the substitutions, but that was to be expected”.


Whilst Keith Bertschin told the Sunderland Echo: “It was a good performance in the end. They all showed good attitude and because they made a few crisp passes early in the second half and scored a few goals. It killed the game off which is what we hoped they’d do. They kept going and it proved a good exercise in more ways than one”.


Sunderland: L King, L Marrs, J Watson, J Armstrong, L Bagnall, M Liddle (C Oliver, 67’), J Hall 1, B Elliott, C Lynch 1 (M Mandron, 67’), A Mitchell 3 (K Martin, 79’), R Deacon 1.


FT: Bishop Auckland 0, Sunderland Reserves 6


— DE


BEDLINGTON TERRIERS 0 BISHOP AUCKLAND 1

Northern League Division One

Saturday 14th January 2011

Bedlington Terriers 0, Bishop Auckland 1

PICTURES

MATCH REPORT

Team: Peter Jeffries / Phil Shead / Robbie Clarkson / Danny Parker / Adam McLane / Darren Richardson / Craig Hodgson / Stephen Salvin / Dan Hawkins / Andrew Johnson / Gareth Ayers (David Wells 90mins)

Bishops were back in action after nearly two weeks without a scheduled game and the game finally kicked off at 1.07pm after Bedlington's floodlight issues brought the kick off forward, then overnight frost also gave concerns right up to kick-off time.

Darren Richardson returned after suspension, and Bishops had finally managed to secure international clearance for Robbie Clarkson who started the game.

Both teams took time to play themselves into the game with parts of the pitch still covered in ice, some parts were very hard whilst other bits were sanded and other bits cut up from the off.  However, both teams took a sensible approach to the game ensuring its conclusion despite some early concerns.

Bishops kicked towards the derelict end which now houses the impressive new scoreboard. The first chance of note came on 20 minutes when Bishops won a free kick just outside the area.  Dan Hawkins fired low and the ball deflected off the feet of the wall and Pickering pushed the ball past the post.

Ten minutes later and Johnson fired in a fierce shot from 25 yards which flew just wide of the right hand post.

Bishops took the lead just before the interval.  Darren Richardson fired in a cross shot from a tight angle which Pickering patted into the path of Dan Hawkins who tapped home.

The visitors ended the half strongly and Darren Richardson just missed the target on the stroke of half time.

HT Bedlington Terriers 0, Bishop Auckland 1

Peter Jeffries had been a virtual spectator in the first half but was called into action early in the second, saving with his foot from Shandran's low shot.  The resulting corner created confusion but Jeffries picked the ball up cleanly as it rebounded off a defender's head.

After repelling Bedlington's initial thrusts, Bishops were unlucky not to double the lead on 54 minutes.  A quick break and pass through from Hawkins found Gareth Ayers with just the 'keeper Pickering to beat.  Having pushed the ball past the 'keeper, Ayers was grabbed by the legs and pulled to the ground just outside the box, allowing the defence to clear.  A certain red card offence, given that Ayers was about to tap into an unguarded net, but not given.

Five minutes later and McLane met Shandran shoulder to shoulder in the Bishops area, but with both players tumbling the referee waved play on despite the home side's protestations.

Craig Hodgson received the only yellow of the game for an inconsequential foul deep inside the Bedlington half.

Bedlington pushed for an equaliser, and Bishops missed a string of chances to double the lead.  Johnson beat the last defender, but was wide on the left when he fired in a weak shot that was easily taken ten minutes from time.  Two minutes later and Salvin set up Richardson who toe poked a shot just wide of the post.

Bishops had their own strong penalty shout five minutes from time when a Bedlington defender locked Andrew Johnson in a long embrace just outside the six yard box and refused to let go.  However, the referee took no action.

McLane, playing another excellent game at the back, put in a great block in the last couple of minutes. and Jeffries punched another high ball into the box as the time ticked past 90.

Terriers released some frustration at their failure to break the normally leaky Bishops defence when Ayers was clattered in a reckless challenge which saw the Bishops midfielder carried from the field of play after a long delay, but Bishops had the three points.

FT Bedlington Terriers 0, Bishop Auckland 1

BILLINGHAM SYNTHONIA 2, BISHOP AUCKLAND 1

Northern League Division One

Monday, 2nd January, 2012

Billingham Synthonia 2, Bishop Auckland 1


MATCH REPORT

Team:  Peter Jeffries / Wayne Clarke / Danny Parker / Craig Hodgson / Adam McLane / Dan Hawkins / Chris Bell / Stephen Salvin / Arran Wearmouth / Andrew Johnson / Gareth Ayers (David Wells 78mins)

Bishops opened up 2012 with an early kick off match at Central Avenue with a debut given to new signing Danny Parker, and a first start for Gareth Ayers.  Dan Hawkins returned to the starting line up after several weeks out following his appendix operation.

The match kicked off under weak sunshine on a very cold January morning.

Synthonia were immediately on the offensive and an incisive move in the opening five minutes cut through Bishops defence but resulted in a shot that was so high and wide it almost landed in Peter Jeffries’ back garden.

Parker made an impact in the game clearing a shot off the line on 8 minutes then blocking the follow up shot.  His debut would be one to remember.

The opening exchanges had all been Synthonia’s and Jeffries was again in action on 13 minutes with a low save to the right hand post which was forced out for a corner.

After weathering this opening storm, Bishops should have taken the lead a minute later when Hawkins burst past his marker and fed Johnson.  The prolific striker chose not to pass to the totally unmarked Wearmouth who could have passed the ball into the net, but instead shot low and saw his shot saved.  A minute later and roles were reversed, and this time Wearmouth pushed the ball through to Johnson who fired low across the ‘keeper but just wide of the far post.

The chances were coming thick and fast for Johnson and after beating three defenders with a strong run the move finished with a weak shot straight at the ‘keeper.  Then Hawkins again set up Johnson for another shooting opportunity and this one flew over the bar.

Johnson’s fifth scoring opportunity came on the stroke of half time when Wearmouth crossed but Johnson’s header glanced wide of the far post.

HT Billingham Synthonia 0, Bishop Auckland 0

Bishops came out cold in the second half and Parker beat the forward to a cross from the left but only succeeded in kneeing the ball past Peter Jeffries and into the net to give the home side the lead.

Both sides missed chances before Bishops equalised.  Bell passed the ball low to Hawkins on the edge of the 18 yard box.  The striker turned his man and cut across goal before firing in a 20 yard screamer which flew into the net.  1-1.

Chances continued to flow at both ends but Bishops were denied the opportunity to take the lead when with five minutes to go, substitute Wells fired in a cross to Wearmouth who controlled well 12 yards from goal before being hacked to the floor.  A clear penalty, but not given by a referee who up to now had seemed to let anything go.

However, the killer blow came deep into the injury time added for the numerous occasions when the game was stopped to retrieve stray balls.  Danny Parker leant into a tackle just outside the box which may or may not have been a foul, but was certainly not a penalty.

The referee leapt to point at the spot, and Earl beat Jeffries to give the home side an undeserved lead and complete a disappointing festive period for the Two Blues.

FT Billingham Synthonia 2, Bishop Auckland 1

BISHOP AUCKLAND VS SUNDERLAND AFC RESERVES

Bishop Auckland FC take on Sunderland Reserves in a friendly at Heritage Park on Wednesday January 18th at 7pm.

Entry is £5 for adults, £3 for senior citizens and under 16s, under 5s free. Tickets on the gate.

Season tickets (Sunderland or BAFC), passes and Free Entry School/BASMJ Tickets are not valid for this fixture.

Sunderland reserves are currently second in the league behind Manchester United. Recent results for the Black Cats reserves saw them beat Manchester United (6-3) with Ryan Noble scoring 4 times, draw away at Hull City (2-2) and most recently beat Arsenal (0-2).

Craig Gordon and Michael Turner returned to action for the win at Arsenal . Full report and team here .

Press release here .

Please download a poster  for display in local shops or businesses.

BISHOP AUCKLAND SCHOOLS FA VS NEWCASTLE SCHOOLS FA

Noon kick off for this quarter final (5th round) tie in the National ESFA Under 15 Inter Association Trophy at Heritage Park.

Bishop Auckland Schools FA have beaten Redcar & Cleveland, North Tyneside, Gateshead and Stockton & District SFA's on their route to the quarter finals.

The Trophy holders Dacorum SFA (Hertfordshire) are out of the competition. Other teams still in the competition include Manchester, Barnet, Cambridge & District and Chelmsford & Mid Essex SFA.

Entry £2 adults, £1 U16s.

 

NEWTON AYCLIFFE 2, BISHOP AUCKLAND 1

Northern League Division One

Monday, 26th December, 2011

Newton Aycliffe 2, Bishop Auckland 1

MATCH REPORT

Team: Peter Jeffries / Chris Bell / Darren Atkinson (Gareth Ayres, 51’) / Ian Dixon (Steven Turnbull, 78’) / Adam McLane / Phil Shead / Arran Wearmouth / Stephen Salvin (capt) / Andrew Johnson / Craig Hodgson / David Wells (Daniel Hawkins, 63’)

With the postponement at Spennymoor Town because the Brewery Field pitch was unplayable, Bishops had gone 16 days without a game when they made the short journey to Moore Lane to take on league newcomers Newton Aycliffe on Boxing Day.

Aycliffe had made a good start to the season securing a place in the top six and both teams came into this particular fixture on the back of wins. This was Bishops first competitive visit to the ground, although the teams had played out a 1-1 draw on August Bank Holiday Monday.

Bishop Auckland manager Colin Myers made just one change from the team that had comfortably beaten Tow Law Town over a fortnight earlier with Nicholas Gibson making way for Stephen Salvin. Amongst the substitutes was new signing Gareth Ayres, who would make his debut from the bench with forty minutes to go.

The Boxing Day weather was bright and cold but the combination of a gale force wind blowing across the ground and a pitch that was bumpy and rolling in places and covered in quite long grass in others meant that players were often struggling at times to put together good attacking football. The Bishops players in particular seemed to have difficulty keeping on their feet.

Both keepers were tested early on with the Aycliffe keeper fumbling a couple of crosses into the box but on each occasion, no one was on hand to take advantage. At the other end, Peter Jeffries raced off his line to dive down and collect a dangerous looking through ball.

Bishops had an excellent shout for a penalty when Andrew Johnson was pulled down in the box by a defender as he attempted to get on the end of a David Wells cross, but referee Gordon waved away the appeal.

The Bishops captain, back from a working trip to Brazil, had the next effort on goal, but the skipper could not get in a clean header from a corner and the combination of head and shoulder meant that Pocklington was able to make the save.

Arran Wearmouth seemed to be on the end of a number of crunching tackles as he skipped passed the midfield and defenders down the Aycliffe left and was singled out for some rough treatment by Peck. The right back had already conceded a couple of fouls against the youngster when he again committed a foul.

t seemed that as Wearmouth lay on the floor the Aycliffe man stamped on him. After a brief altercation, the match official chatted to both players and decreed a free kick was sufficient punishment. Perhaps referee Gordon was in a generous mood in the festive period, but Peck was very fortunate not to be disciplined.

Adam McLane put in yet another good performance and when Gray found Mellanby inside the Bishops defender was on hand to clear off the line when Jeffries was beaten.

The ex-Bishop forward might have opened the scoring but he uncharacteristically miss controlled a pass into the box and Jeffries dived at his feet to cut out the chance.

HT: Newton Aycliffe 0, Bishop Auckland 0

Bishops went into the half time interval 0-0 for only the second time this season. You very rarely see the team involved in a goalless firsr half.

The match finally came alive just after the hour when Gibson pumped a long ball forward and after a couple of passes, Wilson went past Jeffries and rolled the ball into the net.

Just over ten minutes later, the home side doubled their lead. Pocklington’s long clearance was held up in the wind and as Jardine broke into the penalty area, he seemed to be tripped up by the Bishops keeper. As Mellanby was in close proximity, the referee allowed play to continue and the former Bishops man rolled the ball into an empty net.

Bishops battled to get back into the game and they pulled a goal back twelve minutes from time. Salvin crossed into the Aycliffe penalty area and Johnson got above his marker to head the ball on to Wearmouth who had his back to goal. The tricky winger turned quickly and powered his low shot past the keeper from eight yards out.

Unfortunately there was no late rally and try as they might neither team threatened in the time that remained and the game petered out to its inevitable conclusion. The defeat meant that Bishops dropped down three places in the league table to eleventh.

FT: Newton Aycliffe 2, Bishop Auckland 1

— DE

CHRISTMAS GRAND RAFFLE DRAW PRIZE WINNERS

Thanks to all those who bought and sold raffle tickets raising much needed funds for Bishop Auckland FC

Winners

BISHOP AUCKLAND 3, TOW LAW TOWN 0

Northern League Division One

Saturday, 10th December, 2011

Bishop Auckland 3, Tow Law Town 0

MATCH REPORT

Team: Peter Jeffries / Nicholas Gibson / Adam McLane (capt) / Phil Shead / Ian Dixon / Craig Hodgson / Chris Bell / David Wells (Steven Turnbull, 79’) / Arran Wearmouth / Andrew Johnson / Darren Atkinson (Adam Strong, 90’)

After a couple of away games, Bishops returned to Heritage Park to play Tow Law Town, who had been comprehensively beaten at Ironworks Road way back in August. An overnight frost had threatened the fixture but the loan of heavy tarpaulins to cover certain areas of the pitch did the trick and 252 people watched an entertaining match.

Assistant Manager Steven West made three changes from the team that lost the Auckland Derby in midweek. Nicholas Gibson, Phil Shead and David Wells came into the starting eleven in place of Wayne Clarke, Lewis Brown and Darren Richardson.

A fine, sunny, if chilly afternoon saw the Lawyers create the first chance as Nixon cleverly controlled a pass before twisting and turning to make the space to fire in a good shot at goal, but his effort curled past the far post as Peter Jeffries looked on unconcerned.

It was the visiting keeper who was first called into action. A good move down the left involving Chris Bell was followed by a cross into the box which Arran Wearmouth flicked over the defender to the prolific Andrew Johnson but Robinson kept out the shot with his feet.

The Lawyers were putting together some good passages of play against a nervy looking Bishops and the Two Blues were thankful once again for the terrific form of keeper Jeffries as he palmed away Nixon’s shot and then Scott’s over hit cross which was heading towards the top corner.

But Bishops began to look more comfortable on the ball and going forward were creating chances of their own. Phil Shead threaded a defence splitting pass to Johnson, but despite his good turn, he scuffed his shot and Robinson collected easily enough.

An excellent move down the right involving Bell, Craig Hodgson and Shead saw the latter produce an excellent low cross into the danger area but Johnson was unable to get the telling touch. As the defence partially cleared, the ball fell to Bell but the wingers’ shot flew wide.

Moments later, and in a similar move, Arran Wearmouth crossed inside to Johnson but his header went comfortably over the crossbar.

After a fairly even opening half hour the game changed as Waters foolishly kicked the ball away to earn his second yellow of the match having been booked earlier for a foul.

And within a couple of minutes Bishops took the lead. A long ball into the box had two Bishops’ players chasing onto it but the Lawyers’ keeper always looked favourite to collect it, but when he fumbled, Wearmouth netted from an acute angle to score his first goal of the season.

From then on Bishops sought to take advantage of the extra man and Robinson made some amends for his mistake as he saved from Johnson and Shead.

HT: Bishop Auckland 1, Tow Law Town 0

The Two Blues missed a couple of chances to extend the lead after the break when Johnson and Wearmouth both failed to hit the target but the second goal came on the hour.

Darren Atkinson passed inside to Wells, who found Johnson and his powerful shot gave the visiting keeper no chance. An important goal, and Johnson had already netted thirty in only 29 appearances for the Bishops.

Six minutes later, the home side added a third when Robinson could only parry Johnson’s shot and Wells was on hand to fire home from close range to double his Auckland goal scoring tally.

With a three goal lead, the result was not really in any doubt with Jeffries keeping a welcome clean sheet for the first time in eighteen games. Bishops ran out comfortable winners despite missing a number of chances to improve their goal difference against a tiring Tow Law side.

One talking point for the “You are the Ref” column came near to the end of the game when Johnson was clearly fouled in the Lawyers’ penalty area. The forward just about managed to keep his footing and as the referee waved play on, AJ’s hurried shot while unbalanced went well wide. Unusual decision, perhaps?

Nevertheless, a very welcome league double and another three points mean that Bishops maintained 8th position in the table.

Full Time Score:

Bishop Auckland 3 (Wearmouth, 35’; Johnson, 60’; Wells, 66’)

Tow Law Town 0 (Waters (sent off), 32’)

— DE

WEST AUCKLAND 3, BISHOP AUCKLAND 1

Northern League Division One

Tuesday, 6th December, 2011

West Auckland Town 3, Bishop Auckland 1

MATCH REPORT

Team: Peter Jeffries / Wayne Clarke / Darren Atkinson / Lewis Brown / Adam McLane (capt) / Ian Dixon / Chris Bell / Craig Hodgson / Darren Richardson / Andrew Johnson / Arran Wearmouth (Adam Strong, 60’)

Bishops made the shortest of midweek journeys to Darlington Road for the rearranged 105th Northern League Auckland Derby on a chilly December night.

Manager Colin Myers made three changes to the team that returned to winning ways at the weekend. Lewis Brown, Adam McLane and Graig Hodgson were named in the starting eleven in place of Phil Brumwell, Phil Shead and David Wells. Just three subs on the bench — Adam Strong, Karl Everitt and Steven West — was testament to the Two Blues depleted squad due to injuries, suspensions and work commitments.

The two teams had already met early last month in the Durham Challenge Cup when West made an explosive start knocking in a couple of goals within the opening two minutes of the game before running out comfortable 6-2 winners.

This time, the opening goal came from a corner in the second minute. Brown’s kick from the right was headed towards goal and although Peter Jeffries made the save the ball rebounded straight to Hindmarsh who slotted home.

Bishops then more than matched their high flying opponents for the next forty minutes and although they enjoyed some pretty good possession and passing play they were unable to find the net.

The visitors moved the ball around well to create space for an Arran Wearmouth shot from a central position on the edge of the box but the winger’s effort along the ground was comfortably gathered by keeper Bell.

Andrew Johnson fed Darren Atkinson on the left wing and his superb cross into the box cleared the last defender allowing Darren Richardson to head at goal but the forward’s effort was misdirected and curled away from goal.

Jeffries was alert at the other end to save Brown’s effort after he was put through by Rae in a quick West counter attack and the big Bishops’ keeper comfortably saved the header from the resulting corner.

Bishops continued to attack up the slope and when Hall tried to shepherd the ball over the byline, Johnson would not give it up and the two tangled off the pitch as the ball finally went out of play.

The Assistant who was less than five yards away and referee both signalled for a goal kick but as the West central defender got to his feet, he seemed to find player rather than turf. The officials consulted and whilst a red card could have been justifiably shown, Hall escaped with a word from the man in the middle.

Three minutes before the half-time whistle, West doubled their lead when Moffat picked up a diagonal pass from Brown, wrong footed two Bishops defenders and sidefooted home to score his seemingly obligatory goal against the Bishops.

HT: West Auckland Town 2, Bishop Auckland 0

The home side should have extended their lead early in the second half when the ball found Moffat unmarked on the right. Seeing Jeffries off his line, the forward tried to chip the keeper but his effort was always going comfortably wide.

But the third goal came just before the hour when substitute Young shot diagonally across Jeffries from the edge of the box.

The Bishops keeper kept it at three when he made a superb double save and block then at the other end, the home keeper’s clearance went straight to Johnson but Bell was quick to react and blocked the striker’s effort with his legs on the edge of the penalty area.

With 71 minutes on the clock, Hindmarsh was running towards the Bishops goal with Lewis Brown alongside him. Both players went shoulder to shoulder but the West man went down under the challenge. Referee Keogh again consulted with his assistant before brandishing a red card for a professional foul.

The Two Blues have acquitted themselves well lately when being a man (or two) down and thirteen minutes from time, Johnson controlled the ball in the box before mesmerizing three defenders before shooting low past Bell to record his twentieth league goal this season.

The away side and supporters were denied a real grandstand finish when a good penalty shout for a clear handball was met with a stony silence from the match official and another Richardson headed went wide of the upright, although this time just by inches.

A fourth defeat in the last five league games means that Bishops remain in eighth place in the table and whilst a place at the top of the league and the derby bragging rights may go to the neighbours this time, the Two Blues remain way ahead on derby games won.

Full Time Score:

West Auckland Town 3 (Hindmarsh, 2’; Moffat, 41’; Young, 57’)

Bishop Auckland 1 (Johnson, 77’; Brown (sent off), 71’)

— DE

SEVEN DAY CLUB SHOP SALES

There are loads of reductions in the club shop, either on-line or by purchasing at the ground on Saturday.

The sale will last for seven days, with limited stocks of many items, so get your orders in quick.

All items purchased before the sale closes in seven days time will be despatched to you before 14th December, so in great time for Christmas.

Replica Shirts - Home & Away .......... were £25, now £20

Junior Replica Shirts - Home ........... were £20, now £15

Jumpers .......... were £23, now £15

Sweatshirts .......... were £14, now £10

T-Shirts - Adult and Children .......... were £7, now £5

Never Again - Bob Hardisty Biography .......... was £12, now £9

Penants .......... were £7.50, now £5

Keyrings .......... were £2.50, now £1.50

Order now via the Club Shop link on the menu.

GUISBOROUGH TOWN 1, BISHOP AUCKLAND 2

Northern League Division One

Saturday 3rd December, 2011

Guisborough Town 1, Bishop Auckland 2

MATCH REPORT

Team: Peter Jeffries / Wayne Clarke / Darren Atkinson / Phil Brumwell (Lewis Brown 89mins) / Ian Dixon / Darren Richardson / Chris Bell / Phil Shead / Arran Wearmouth (Craig Hodgson 74mins) / Andrew Johnson / David Wells (Adam Strong 78mins)

Over 24 years since Bishops last visited Guisborough, with the previous encounter ending 2-2 with goals from John Grady and Peter Hinds just four days after Bishops had won on the same ground in an FA Cup tie.

Nothing much seemed to have changed since then as Bishops rolled into town on a cold but thankfully dry December afternoon.  Wells and Brumwell replaced McLane and Walklate in the starting team, with new signing Craig Hodgson on the bench.

Guisborough had the ball in the net on 13 minutes when a punt into the Bishops box was spilled by Jeffries under pressure and forced home, but a foul on the 'keeper was awarded.  A minute later and a low cross was deflected goalbound but Jeffries this time stopped with his legs, and gratefully gathered.

After the home side's early flurry, Bishops came more into the game and Wells fed Richardson for a strong 35 yard shot which was well gathered.

Bishops took the lead on 24 minutes when Bell slotted a ball through the defensive line to Johnson who cut in from space on the left and curled the ball beautifully round the 'keeper and into the top corner.

It was not the visitors on top. Wearmouth pushed the ball through to Johnson and the striker's cross shot went wide of goal, and agonisingly just away from the supporting players.

Dixon picked up a yellow just before the half hour for persistent fouling.  Former Bishops player Chris I'Anson found a more direct route to the book, elbowing Clarke next to the linesman.

Bishops doubled the lead on 33 minutes when Bell again set up the goal. This time he looped in a cross from the right which Wells did well to bring down on his chest before swivelling to fire a shot into the far corner of the net.  2-0.

The home side were in disarray at this stage, and Bishops missed a string of chances to put the game out of sight.  First Johnson fired in a great shot from 25 yards which was well saved, the ball being tipped just over the bar.

From the resulting corner Dixon at the far post headed the ball back in to Richardson who fired over the bar.

A minute later and a ball over the top saw the Guisborough 'keeper racing out of his box to clear, but a fortunate slice put the ball just out of Johnson's reach.

Just before the break and Richardson beat the 'keeper to a cross, and glanced a header just past the left hand upright.

HT Guisborough Town 0, Bishop Auckland 2

The second half started under some severely compromised illumination, with around a third of the floodlight bulbs being out of action.

The first chance of the half was a carbon copy of the last chance of the first half.  Richardson beat the 'keeper to a cross and glanced a header just wide.

Bell came close on 51 minutes, beating his man and racing through on goal, but his low shot was saved with the feet.

Chris I'Anson took advantage of the poor lighting to plant an elbow on Brumwell which left the Bishops defender floored.  Worthy of a red card on it's own, the offence went unpunished.

Soon after it was I'Anson forcing the ball in from close range from a corner after Jeffries had pulled off two great saves to keep the Guisborough forwards out. 1-2.

Jeffries was in action on a frequent basis at this stage, pulling off a number of good saves to keep Bishops ahead.  Shots and crosses were all dealt with admirably.

Wells had a one on one chance saved on 68 minutes, then it was back down the other end for another dangerous ball across the Bishops box, then a great Jeffries save from I'Anson.

Bishops ran the clock down successfully for the final 15 minutes and took the opportunity to give Hodgson a debut, replacing the recently returned Wearmouth.  Strong replaced Wells, and after Brumwell had again been flattened with a big foul, Brown replaced him for the final exchanges.

A tough match, but another three points to Bishops which lifts us back to 8th in the table.

FT Guisborough Town 1, Bishop Auckland 2

BISHOP AUCKLAND 1, WHITLEY BAY 3

Northern League Division One

Saturday 26th November, 2011

Bishop Auckland 1, Whitley Bay 3

MATCH REPORT

Team: Peter Jeffries / Wayne Clarke / Ian Dixon / Phil Shead / Adam McLane / Steven Walklate / Chris Bell / Steven Turnbull / Arran Wearmouth (Phil Brumwell 60mins) / Andrew Johnson / Darren Atkinson

Bishops welcomed Arran Wearmouth back to the starting team for the first time since August, and Wayne Clarke and Phil Shead were back, but the injury ravaged season continued with news that Dan Hawkins was in hospital having had his appendix removed, putting the striker out for a few weeks.

The match was played in a very strong wind which impacted on play throughout and was joined by heavy rain during the second half.  Bishops kicked off in an unfamiliar direction, kicking West in the opening half.

Just four minutes into the game and Dixon and Chow were grappling on the floor in the Bishops six yard box, with both players getting a long lecture from the referee.

However, just a few minutes later and the two players were again facing off, and although the ball was already out of play for a goal kick, the referee awarded a penalty which Kerr converted.

Bishops went straight up the other end, and Atkinson found himself with just the final defender to beat.  The ball was blocked by the defender's outstretched arm, but the referee deemed that this clear handball "lacked intent" and despite denying Bishops a goal no penalty was awarded.

The Two Blues were doing well against the strong wind and on 16 minutes Johnson set up Walklate but his curling shot lacked the power to beat Hayes in the Bay goal.

Five minutes later and Walklate returned the favour, slotting the ball through to Johnson who lashed home an equaliser.

Bay were generally struggling to measure their passes with the elements pushing the ball through quickly.  However, on 22 minutes Chow gathered the ball near the goal-line but his cross/shot was well gathered by Jeffries.

Minutes later and a similar opportunity for Johnson whose cross shot was spilled by Hayes, but gathered at the second attempt.

Bishops should have taken the lead on 28 minutes when Johnson wriggled free of his marker on the right and drilled in a low hard cross just a couple of feet from the line, and Atkinson was on the right side of his marker to tap home from inches out, but somehow the midfielder failed to make contact with the goal at his mercy.

The open game continued with a chance at the other end and Jeffries stretched and palmed a corner to Kerr who blasted well wide.

Johnson went shoulder to shoulder with the Bay defence and despite being man-handled all the way found space to get in a shot, but it was deflected wide of the left hand post.  From the corner, Wearmouth glanced a header just over the bar.

Bay took the lead when Jeffries clearance off the ground was mis-hit and Scroggins was allowed to advance on goal and shoot low into the bottom corner.

Penalties have been a feature of recent encounters between the two sides, and Bay received another just before the break when Jeffries went for a stray ball in the box.  Presumably on this occasion Jeffries "intended" to foul, rather than get the ball, as the referee had no hesitation in pointing to the spot again.  Kerr's penalty was hard and strong to the bottom right hand corner but Jeffries dived full length to push the ball past the post.  A brilliant save.

HT Bishop Auckland 1, Whitley Bay 2

Bishops had the elements in the second half and Bell immediately caused problems, firing in a cross which Turnbull fired just over the bar.

Johnson set up Shead for a low drive which flew just wide of the post.   Three minutes late and Shead fed Johson whose deflected shot was gratefully grabbed by Hayes.

Despite having dominated the opening of the second half, it was Bay who scored the decisive goal when they broke quickly and Kerr expertly curled a shot which Jeffries could only get a fingertip to, and the ball went in off the inside of the right hand post.

Phil Brumwell replaced Arran Wearmouth just after the hour, with the young striker having played an excellent game after such a long lay-off.

Johnson used the breeze to add power to a 40 yard free kick on 64 minutes which Hayes beat out with his wrists and Turnbull's rebound chance was tipped over the bar.

Bishops continued to attack and Johnson was in the action all the time, but Shead was providing the drive from midfield and another low hard shot from 30 yards went just wide of the post.

Time was running out, but with five minutes of injury time added to compensate by Bay time wasting, Bishops still felt they had a chance.  Three minutes into the added time Johnson lobbed the 'keeper only to see his shot hit the post.

In the dying seconds of the game, a corner was deflected goalwards.  A Bay defender cleared the ball, but from behind the goal-line and the linesman flagged to indicate a goal, but with most players heading back to the centre, the referee overruled, awarding a free kick for a mystery offence in the box.

A much better performance from Bishops and another opportunity for success against Bay went begging, as again Bay's more clinical finishing, plus the lion's share of the big decisions gave the visitors the advantage.

FT Bishop Auckland 1, Whitley Bay 3

ASHINGTON 7, BISHOP AUCKLAND 1

Northern League Division One

Tuesday, 22nd November, 2011

Ashington 7, Bishop Auckland 1

MATCH REPORT

Peter Jeffries / Phil Brumwell / Ian Dixon / Steven Walklate / Adam McLane (capt) / Lewis Brown / Adam Strong (Steven Turnbull, 53 mins) / Darren Richardson / Chris Bell / Andrew Johnson / Darren Atkinson

A midweek trip over (or under) the River Tyne for the rearranged league fixture at Woodhorn Lane against Ashington gave Bishops a quick chance to bounce back after Saturday’s defeat at South Shields. The Colliers had beaten Norton & Stockton Ancients in the FA Vase at the weekend and went into the match, as did the Bishops, having taken 13 points from the last six league games.

Bishop Auckland manager Colin Myers made three changes from the side that lost at Shields. Phil Brumwell, Lewis Brown and Darren Atkinson returned to the starting eleven in place of Wayne Clarke, Steven Turnbull and Nicholas Gibson.

With the warmer autumnal weather giving way to a chilly night, the match kicked off under clear skies and the home side were quick out of the blocks, scoring the opening goal in only the second minute when an attack down the right was finished when Phil Bell side footed past Peter Jeffries and into the net.

The Two Blues attempted to get quickly back on level terms and were a little unfortunate not to do so but Andrew Johnson’s shot was blocked by a defender and Darren Richardson’s effort was saved by keeper Dryden.

But much worse was to follow for the travelling fans as Ashington went two up inside ten minutes with Mullen supplying Bell, who chipped over the advancing Jeffries to score his second of the night.

The home sides third goal came courtesy of a quick counter attack after Bishops attacked down the right. Atkinson’s cross into the home penalty area was headed on by Johnson and as Bishops threatened, Rees cleared and two passes later, Bell had scored a hat-trick in the nineteenth minute.

The Bishops’ keeper made a couple of good saves to keep the home side at three when he saved two more efforts from Bell before the Two Blues finally managed to get on the score sheet.

Adam Strong powered his low shot under the keeper from eight yards out to reduce the deficit four minutes before the half-time break.

But any hopes of a comeback were quickly squashed when Bell scored his, and Ashington’s fourth with a sweetly struck volley two minutes later.

HT: Ashington 4, Bishop Auckland 1

Johnson had a good opportunity to reduce the deficit minutes after the restart but as he struggled to gain control of the ball he found the angle to goal getting narrower and ultimately skied his shot over the bar.

Seven minutes in to the second forty-five and Phil Bell scored his, and the home sides, fifth when his looping header went over Jeffries and bounced just inside the far post.

The Colliers got their sixth just after the hour through Scott’s powerfully struck shot and Mullen netted a seventh when he seized on a rebound following an excellent Jeffries stop.

And so it remained at the final whistle. Speaking to the Northern Echo after the game, Bishop Auckland manager, Colin Myers said: "If it wasn’t for Peter Jeffries, it could have been more. It was an awful performance, and some players threw in the towel after twenty minutes, which is completely unacceptable".

All in all, a dismal Bishops performance which shows quite clearly how much the team have been weakened by injuries and unavailability. This was our sixth eight goal match this season and the third in a month that started with a 2-6 loss against West Auckland Town. With the visit of Whitley Bay to come on Saturday, hopes are not high that Bishops will arrest their losing streak.

FT: Ashington 7, Bishop Auckland 1

— DE

FOOTBALL, MORE FOOTBALL THEN BAND NIGHT - NEXT SATURDAY

Next Saturday will be a busy day at Heritage Park.

The main event will be Bishops Northern League match against Whitley Bay, with a 3pm kick off.

Bishop Auckland St.Mary's Juniors will then play their first fixture at the new ground. The Under 16s will be taking on Leven AFC in a Teesside Junior Football Alliance Division 2 fixture, with a 6pm kick off.

After that, it's band night with "Men Without Ties"  and "Dayyani Square"  starting from 8pm.

Admission is the usual £5/£3 for the Whitley Bay league game, but admission to the St.Mary's match and Band Night is free.

Gates will be open from 1.30pm until late ! 

Follow this event on Facebook

PENRITH MATCH FOOTAGE

As you'll probably be aware, last Saturday's match versus Penrith was videod by the team at the "Northern League Football" website.

The club now has a full 90 minute DVD of the match which will be shown on the big screen in the function room at Heritage Park immediately after our game against Tow Law on 10th December.

TAXI OFFER FOR WHITLEY BAY

Atlas Taxis are offering those wanting to attend the Bishop Auckland vs Whitley Bay match on Saturday a special deal.

A taxi will be waiting for you in the market place at 2pm for the journey to Heritage Park, with the return journey taking place at 6.30pm from the ground back to the market place.

The fare is just £1 each way, with 15 seats available.  Just turn up to claim one !

This is a trial, and if successful will be something we can run on a regular basis.

If you have any feedback or suggestions on the scheme, please e-mail the club via the website.

 

THANKS FROM EVENWOOD TOWN UNDER 11s

Thanks to our supporters on behalf of Evenwood Town Under 11s who took a bucket collection at our recent game against Penrith.

The club raised £153.25, with the money being used to fund winter training kit.

SOUTH SHIELDS 2, BISHOP AUCKLAND 1

Northern League Division One

Saturday 19th November, 2011

South Shields 2, Bishop Auckland 1

MATCH REPORT

Team: Peter Jeffries / Wayne Clarke / Ian Dixon / Steven Walklate / Adam McLane / Darren Richardson / Chris Bell / Steven Turnbull (Lewis Brown HT) / Adam Strong (Dan Hawkins HT) / Andrew Johnson / Nicholas Gibson (Darren Atkinson 64mins)

With Captain Stephen Salvin now back in Brazil for a month and Phil Shead unavailable, Bishops preparations were further damaged when Dan Hawkins was called into work on the morning of the game and Peter Jeffries received several minutes of physio time during the warm up but was declared fit to play.

The match was played on bright but cold afternoon, with the pitch looking great, but proving to be extremely bobbly which made passing play more difficult and increased the error count significantly.

Adam Strong, playing in place of the late arriving Hawkins, almost opened the scoring inside two minutes when his fierce shot was patted away by Bell in the Shields goal.

Shields were next on the attack on 7 minutes when Gibson was outrun by Soulsby and his mis-hit shot almost found Colvin on the far post but he managed to deflect the ball into the side netting.

The home side took the lead on 12 minutes when Talbot crossed for Barclay to head home unchallenged from eight yards. Bishops were fortunate to keep the score to one a couple of minutes later when a deflected shot forced Jeffries to improvise and save with a knee.

Shields were on top at this stage with Wightman kneeing over the bar from close range then Jeffries having to gather a difficult bobbling shot from Smith.

Bishops almost levelled on 24 minutes when the ball was threaded through the Shields defence and Richardson was on hand to push the ball past the advancing 'keeper but too wide to tap into the unguarded net.

The visitors were dominating possession, but creating few chances, and it was Shields approach which was working best and Jeffries was again called into action on the half hour, putting Colvin under enough pressure to force him to balloon the ball over the bar.

Bell almost forced an equaliser a minute later when a poor clearance fell to Bell 20 yards from goal but his shot was blocked by a diving defender.

HT South Shields 1, Bishop Auckland 0

Manager Myers pushed on Hawkins and Brown at the interval to replace Strong and Turnbull.  Shields opened the second half with a clear strategy to flood the defence and hang on to what they had.

However, despite that it was Shields who created the first chance of the half when Soulsby lashed wide from inside the box.

Bishops started to push foward and missed a great chance ten minutes into the half winning a free kick wide on the left.  Gibson's kick found Dixon totally unmarked at the far post but the defender headed over the bar.

A minute later and Bell looped in a free kick which totally deceived his namesake 'keeper and fell to Dixon but this time a defender put himself in the way of the ball.

Another free kick soon after caused further problems when Bell fired it in low and Hawkins glanced the ball just wide of the far post.

A corner 20 minutes from time was half cleared to Walklate 25 yards from goal but he leant back and fired it high over the bar.

Soon after and Clarke gave away a free kick and picked up a yellow card. Lee Bell fired the direct free kick past Jeffries to double the lead. 

Shields persisted with their defensive strategy, and supplemented this with some intricate time wasting tactics in an attempt to run down the clock.

Five minutes from time and Hawkins passed to Johnson on the left and his low shot was well saved.  The 'keeper then embarrassed himself by faking an injury as the timewasting continued.

We were deep into the six minutes of injury time added when Darren Richardson went in for a tackle and was shown a straight red. In the discussions that followed the referee singled out Clarke to award a yellow card for dissent.  After a long interval, the official realised his failure to show a red and sought out the player before sending the incredulous defender off.

Bishops coped well with 9 men at Shildon, and again found a goal when two men down in the seventh minute of injury time when Andy Johnson headed home from close range to narrow the gap, but the final whistle blew soon after.

FT South Shields 2, Bishop Auckland 1

JC

NEW DECEMBER FIXTURE & FIXTURE POSTPONED

Bishops final outstanding league fixture has been scheduled for Tuesday 6th, away at West Auckland Town

Unfortunately Bishops scheduled home friendly against Middlesbrough AFC on Tuesday 13th, has been postponed, as Middlesbrough have been given an FA Youth Cup fixture on that date, and as a result they are unable to visit Heritage Park, but we are hoping to reschedule later in the season.

BISHOP AUCKLAND 5, PENRITH 3

Northern League Division One

Saturday, 12th November, 2011

Bishop Auckland 5, Penrith 3

MATCH REPORT

Team: Peter Jeffries / Phil Brumwell (Lewis Brown, 76 mins) / Ian Dixon / Philip Shead / Adam McLane / Darren Richardson / Chris Bell / Stephen Salvin (capt) / Daniel Hawkins / Andrew Johnson / Darren Atkinson (Nicholas Gibson, HT)

After the disappointment in midweek of seeing the last of cup competition for this season, Bishops returned to Heritage Park hoping to continue their impressive league form which has seen the best start to the season for a decade.

Manager Colin Myers made four changes from the side that unluckily lost at Sunderland RCA. Ian Dixon, Philip Shead, Stephen Salvin and Daniel Hawkins returned to the starting eleven in place of Wayne Clarke, Steven Walklate, Lewis Brown and Nicholas Gibson.

After days of dull and drizzly weather the sunshine returned as the crowd of 327 enjoyed yet more of the unseasonably warm autumn sun.

Bishops kicked off towards the car wash hoping for a much better start than in their last home game. But the first real chance came at the other end after Phil Brumwell was disposed by Allison who quickly fed the fast breaking Wood whose shot was saved at the near post by Peter Jeffries.

The Two Blues had a good shout for a penalty turned down by referee Broadbent when Adam McLane was bundled over in the box by Davidson as Darren Atkinson’s corner floated to him at the back post.

The home side took the lead in the eighth minute when McLane collected a throw in on the half way line and surged forward before placing a superb through ball for Andrew Johnson to run on to. The marksman made no mistake sliding the ball past keeper Holland whilst outpacing the last defender.

Penrith were level ten minutes later when they broke quickly from deep inside their own half. Daniel Hawkins pass to Johnson was cut out by Gray and the defender punted the ball upfield allowing Allison to run on to it and chip the advancing Jeffries. McLane raced back and cleared but the assistant on the far side flagged to indicate the ball had crossed the goal line.

Both teams then missed good chances to take the lead until, three minutes before half-time, Jackson passed to Allison who scored to give the visitors the edge.

HT: Bishop Auckland 1, Penrith 2

Bishops were unlucky not to equalise early in the second half when Stephen Salvin rode a challenge in the centre circle to pass forward to Johnson. The striker chipped Holland from the edge of the area only to see the ball rebound off the far post.

Penrith extended their lead in the 53rd minute after the Two Blues again lost possession deep in the opposition half. Three quick passes later found Coleman inside the Bishops penalty area and with Jeffries committed to cutting out the cross, the striker toe poked the ball into the net.

But to the credit of the Bishops, this setback just spurred them on and they dominated the remainder of the game with some excellent attacking play. They pulled one back from a penalty rightly awarded against Wood for handball. Although Holland saved Johnson’s spot kick, Hawkins reacted first to score from the rebound.

Darren Richardson thought that he had equalised from a header but the assistants offside flag terminated the celebrations. Still Bishops pressed, and the third goal came eleven minutes from time as Jeffries clearance found Johnson on the left wing and after skipping past the defender, the forward found his striker in the box with a pinpoint cross and Hawkins powered his header into the back of the net.

Two minutes later and the Two Blues took a deserved lead. Nicholas Gibson (on his home debut) flicked on to Salvin in the box who controlled the ball with one knee before unleashing a sweet volley that trundled into the net after keeper Holland got both hands on to it.

From then on, the result wasn’t in any doubt and Hawkins completed a remarkable comeback, and Bishops first hat-trick at Heritage Park, when he latched on to a loose ball to score his third courtesy of a huge deflection off defender Gray.

So, for the first time in over a couple of seasons, Bishops had fought back to win a game after being behind at half-time. The three points keeps the Two Blues in seventh place with a very healthy tally of 30 points. It also means that Bishops have lost just once in the last ten league matches.

Speaking about the Hawkins/Johnson partnership after the game, Colin Myers said: "The pair of them have hit it off since day one in pre-season training. When one of them doesn’t score, then the other does. They both do a tremendous amount of running off the ball, and create space well. They complement each other, and they’re going from strength to strength".

For match highlights see: www.youtube.com/watch?v=W3uPynONPkY

Full Time Score:

Bishop Auckland 5 (Johnson, 8’; Hawkins, 57’ 79’ 90+1’; Salvin, 89’) Johnson missed penalty, 57’

Penrith 3 (Allison, 18’ 42’; Coleman, 53’)

— DE

GRAND CHRISTMAS RAFFLE - £1000 FIRST PRIZE

Tickets are now available to buy for the Grand Christmas Raffle - First prize £1000 plus many other prizes! £1 each.

Tickets are available to purchase from club officials, from the club shop and the bar.

(Tickets also available through Shops  if you are unable to visit the ground or attend upcoming matches)

If you would like to take tickets to sell for the club, please speak to a club official or email the club or John Cowey.

Raising Funds for Bishop Auckland FC and Bishop Auckland St Mary's Juniors.

Drawn on Thursday 15th December, 2011 @ 7.30 at Heritage Park.

Promoter: Bishop Auckland FC

SUNDERLAND RCA 4, BISHOP AUCKLAND 3 (AET)

Northern League Challenge Cup Second Round

Tuesday, 8th November, 2011

Sunderland RCA 4, Bishop Auckland 3 (AET)

MATCH REPORT

Team: Peter Jeffries / Adam McLane / Wayne Clarke (Steven Turnbull, 52 mins) / Steven Walklate / Philip Brumwell (capt) / Darren Richardson / Chris Bell / Lewis Brown / Andrew Johnson / Nicholas Gibson (Adam Strong, 76 mins) / Darren Atkinson

For the third time this season, Bishops headed to Meadow Park to take on Sunderland RCA, hoping that it was their turn to finally come out on top for a change.

With manager and assistant manager both unavailable, Karl Everitt took charge of team affairs and made four changes from the team that beat Dunston UTS in the league on Saturday. Steven Walklate, Phil Brumwell, Lewis Brown and debutant Nicholas Gibson came into the starting eleven in place of the unavailable Ian Dixon, Phil Shead, Stephen Salvin and Daniel Hawkins.

The match kicked off in the aptly named ‘mizzle’ with RCA attacking down the considerable slope and it was the home side that took the lead from a corner in only the sixth minute when an unmarked Oates bundled the ball over the line at the back post.

The visitors found themselves two down five minutes later when Close’s long range cross field shot went inside Peter Jeffries’ far post.

Bishops’ neat approach play had yet to pay dividends despite them creating a number of chances at the top of the hill. New signing Nicholas Gibson had a couple of good chances to make a goal scoring debut, but he was thwarted by keeper Atkinson, although when one shot found its way through the gate into the cemetery beyond, no one seemed to be in any hurry to retrieve the ball. That reluctance continued when Andrew Johnson’s shot also found it’s way into the burial ground, although one brave soul ventured in…

HT: Sunderland RCA 2, Bishop Auckland 0

Bishops continued to threaten after the break as Johnson continued to cause problems to the home defence. The prolific striker was unlucky not to reduce the arrears when he connected with Darren Atkinson’s pass, but the forwards shot went inches wide.

The match officials reluctance to award Bishops a clear penalty that was so much evident on Saturday was again clear to see as referee Brown failed to punish Close as he took Johnson’s standing leg from behind.

Nonetheless, Bishops were not to be denied and when the forward raced on to Chris Bell’s pass into the box Johnson shot low towards goal beating Atkinson at the near post.

After Jeffries pushed Shields’ header over the crossbar, his opposite number saved Richardson’s header as a Bell free kick was flicked on by Gibson.

A deserved equaliser finally came in the 88th minute

when the match official played a good advantage after Johnson was fouled and substitute Steven Turnbull struck a sweet 25 yard shot into the top corner of the net.

90 mins: Sunderland RCA 2, Bishop Auckland 2

The teams changed around again for the first period of extra time and Johnson was presented a glorious chance to put Bishops ahead. A superbly weighted back pass sent the forward clear and after steadying himself, his powerful shot went straight at the keeper and the ball rebounded away to safety.

As half-time in extra time drew near, RCA scored twice within a minute to restore their two goal advantage. First, an unmarked Close headed home a cross and then Jennings fired in the fourth as the extra fifteen came to an end.

ET HT: Sunderland RCA 4, Bishop Auckland 2

Despite conceding those two late goals, Bishops showed plenty of fighting spirit as they attacked the goal at the bottom of the hill for the last fifteen minutes of the tie. Throwing men further forward invariably meant there would be gaps at the back, but the defence were up to all that RCA could muster.

Yet another penalty decision went against the Two Blues when Richardson was clearly brought down in the penalty area; the hapless match official once again shook his head prompting a superb satirical comment from behind the goal.

Midway through the last period Turnbull found Johnson who skipped past a defender before shooting into the net off the far post to reduce the deficit to one. But when a fierce Richardson shot was blocked by Johnson there was a sense that once again, it was not to be.

At 10.00 pm, Bishops unluckily bowed out of the final knockout competition and we must wait until next year for that exciting long cup run. At least as we now concentrate on the league, the team have already shown some excellent form this season.

— DE

BEST LEAGUE START FOR A DECADE

Bishop Auckland FC's return of 27 points from 17 matches is the club's best start to a league season since the return to the Northern League and beyond.

22 points were collected in 2006, the first season back in the league, but subsequent seasons have seen only 18, 11, 18 and 16 points gained at this stage.

The final seasons in the Northern Premier League were also traumatic, with points hauls of just 9, 13, 25, 11 and 24 in the final five seasons.

Season 2000/1 saw an impressive 30 points gained in a team that included the likes of Jeff Smith, Dan Brunskill, Michael Nelson, Danny Mellanby, David Bayles and Andrew Shaw.

DUNSTON UTS 1, BISHOP AUCKLAND 2

Northern League Division One

Saturday 5th December, 2011

Dunston UTS 1, Bishop Auckland 2

MATCH REPORT

Team: Peter Jeffries / Wayne Clarke / Ian Dixon / Phil Shead / Adam McLane / Darren Richardson / Chris Bell / Stephen Salvin / Dan Hawkins / Andrew Johnson / Darren Atkinson

After Wednesday's humiliation, Dunston UTS away looked like giving the worst possible opportunity to bounce back.  Not only were Dunston three points clear at the top of the league, but were also a team that Bishops had failed to beat in 12 fixtures since the return to the Northern League.

Ian Dixon, re-signed after three months at Shildon, came into the starting team to be joined by Adam McLane, Darren Richardson and Stephen Salvin which looked to give Bishops a much stronger line-up, particularly as this allowed Salvin to take his place in midfield for the first time this season.

An explosive start to the game when on four minutes Bishops broke fast and Andrew Johnson raced clear on goal only to be hacked from behind just inside the box.  The referee, who at this stage was still in the opposite half of the field, ruled the tackle fair, but the vast majority of those in the ground were closer to the action and knew this should have been a penalty and a red card.

The two teams sparred for the next 15 minutes and it was Bishops that took the lead at the midpoint of the half. A free kick 25 yards from goal was chipped into the box by Bell and Salvin poked the ball to Hawkins whose initial shot was blocked but a second effort beat Clark and crept in just inside the right hand post.

The goal gave Bishops more confidence and it was no surprise when the lead was doubled on 31 minutes.  Darren Atkinson floated over a cross from the left, and Darren Richardson timed his run perfectly to break from the pack and step into the no-mans-land between keeper and defence to glance a header into the net for 2-0.

Dunston were rocked and Andrew Johnson was unlucky not to add a third a minutes later when he just failed to push the ball past Clark when slotted in on a near one on one.

The home side came back more into the game as the half drew to a close, and their first real chance came on 39 minutes with a cross from the left which took a slight deflection before an unchallenged Craggs headed over from eight yards.

A minute before half time and another chance for Dunston as Young hit the outside of Jeffries right hand post.

Bishops matched this on the stroke of half time when Johnson picked up the ball towards the left and chose to shoot rather than cross to Hawkins, but his fierce shot cannoned off the face of the bar, and the rebound was cleared.

Bishops left the field to a dangerously premature round of applause from the supporters at the break.

HT Dunston UTS 0, Bishop Auckland 2

Dunston looked more purposeful in the opening exchanges of the second half, but Bishops defensive line was looking much stronger.

A foul on Johnson on 64 minutes gave Bishops the chance to release some pressure, but Salvin's header was comfortably collected by Clark.

Four minutes later and Bishops captain was receiving a big shove to the back which sent him to the ground inside the box, but once again no penalty, although this one was more borderline.

Dunston came close next with a low hard cross from Galbraith which evaded outstretched legs from both sides.  However, the danger was there to see as Bishops came under increasing pressure and on 76 minutes hesitance in the Bishops defence from a ball over the top found substitute Hume on hand to prod the ball into the net to narrow the gap to 1-2.  Peter Jeffries was surpisingly the only player to pick up a yellow card in a mele after the goal despite receiving several blows as he lay on the ground.

The game should have been safe on 81 minutes when Hawkins too the ball to the cornerflag before cutting back along the goalline.  His attempted cross to Johnson was parried by Clark, and as the striker gathered the ball for the rebound he was clumsily scythed to the floor just a yard from goal.  Another clear penalty, but again the same reaction from the referee.

Jeffries made a good close range save five minutes from time from a wide cross which again looked dangerous, but Bishops defended stoutly and broke to run the clock down at every opportunity and after an unexpectedly long period of added time, the final whistle arrived.

FT Dunston UTS 1, Bishop Auckland 2

JC

BISHOP AUCKLAND 2, WEST AUCKLAND 6

Durham Challenge Cup First Round

Wednesday, 2nd November, 2011

Bishop Auckland 2, West Auckland Town 6

MATCH REPORT

Team: Peter Jeffries / Steven Turnbull / Darren Atkinson / Philip Brumwell (capt) / Wayne Clarke / Steven Walklate / Chris Bell / Lewis Brown / Daniel Hawkins (Karl Everitt, 89 mins) / Andrew Johnson / David Wells (Darren Richardson, 36 mins)

Assistant Manager Steven West made three changes from the team that won in the league at Newcastle Benfield the previous Saturday. Peter Jeffries, Steven Turnbull and David Wells came into the starting eleven in place of Simon Bishop, Stephen Salvin and Phil Shead.

One year on from the mini-monsoon that greeted the visit of Middlesbrough FC for the opening of Heritage Park, Bishops kicked off on a rainy night against West Auckland and found themselves a goal down within ten seconds. Having carelessly giving the ball away to Nicholls, the winger ran unimpeded towards the Bishops goal and gave Peter Jeffries no chance with his 30 yard shot that flew into the top corner.

With barely ninety seconds on the clock, West were two up. Andrew Johnson had a shot partially saved by Bell and when Gibson cleared off the line the visitors broke quickly down the right wing and Hindmarsh fired his shot across goal and into the far corner.

Bishops tried to respond but soon found themselves three down. After a Chris Bell effort fizzed inches wide of the post, West broke quickly again and when Steven Turnbull was caught in possession Nicholls skipped past a desperate challenge before shooting into the top corner of Jeffries’ goal with barely ten minutes on the clock.

Three minutes later and Johnson pulled one back for the Two Blues. Collecting the ball in a central position, the forward seemed to take advantage of an accidental handball before turning his defender and shooting low past keeper Bell just inside the post.

Things seemed to settle down a bit after this frantic opening, although Bishops were a little unfortunate not to narrow the deficit further when a slick move involving Turnbull and Hawkins resulted in a Brown shot that was deflected over the crossbar. Although, rather bizarrely, the match official was one of few people who failed to see the vital touch.

With ten minutes of the half remaining the game exploded into life once again. Jeffries fumbled a Hindmarsh cross straight to Nicholls, who calmly threaded in his third of the night and four minutes later the much travelled centre forward, Matty Moffat, got on the end of a long punt into the area and lifted the ball over the advancing Bishops’ keeper and into the net.

West Auckland keeper Bell saved a low shot from his Bishops namesake and then went on to deny Brown whilst, at the other end, Jeffries saved from Hindmarsh as the half ended.

HT: Bishop Auckland 1, West Auckland Town 5

With the tie effectively over in the opening ten minutes and the visitors holding a big advantage one had to wonder what the second half would bring.

The signs were looking ominous three minutes after the restart as Moffat waltzed past three Bishop defenders to chip Jeffries a second time on the night to hit Bishops for six.

That was to be as bad as it would get, but it could have been much much worse. Jeffries denied Moffat his hat-trick and made further saves that thwarted Hindmarsh and Francis. When the Bishops keeper was beaten again, Moffat’s curling shot thumped off the post and was cleared to safety.

West continued to create chances, although their finishing became a little more wayward and as the game wore on to its obvious conclusion, Bishops began to create a few chances at the other end. Seven minutes from time, Bell crossed inside to Hawkins who ran at goal before scoring a late consolation.

This was undeniably Bishops worst performance of the season and came against a team that are flying high in the Northern League table — and you can see why! The Two Blues tactic of playing with just three at the back was far too frequently exposed as the visitors broke quickly and swamped the home defence, sometimes outnumbering them two to one.

Steven West’s frustration was clear for all to see, and sometimes unfortunately to hear. The Assistant Manager was somewhat fortunate to be only warned by the match official as he colourfully expressed his discontent to those who failed to track back.

All in all, a pretty awful evening (except the 451 attendance), and the first ever cup match at Heritage Park will not be remembered with fondness by the two blue side of Auckland.

Full Time Score:

Bishop Auckland 2 (Johnson, 13’; Hawkins, 83’)

West Auckland Town 6 (Nicholls, 1’ 10’ 34’; Hindmarsh, 2’; Moffat, 38’ 48’)

— DE

NEWCASTLE BENFIELD 1, BISHOP AUCKLAND 3

Northern League Division One

Saturday, 29th October, 2011

Newcastle Benfield 1, Bishop Auckland 3

MATCH REPORT

Team: Simon Bishop / Phil Brumwell / Stephen Salvin (capt) / Steven Walklate / Wayne Clarke / Phil Shead / Chris Bell / Lewis Brown / Dan Hawkins / Andrew Johnson / Darren Atkinson (David Wells, 71 mins)

Another sunny October Saturday as Bishops travelled across (or under) the River Tyne to play Newcastle Benfield.

Bishop Auckland manager Colin Myers made five changes from the team that drew at Marske United the previous Saturday. Simon Bishop, Phil Brumwell, Steven Walklate, Phil Shead and Chris Bell all returned to the starting eleven in place of Peter Jeffries, Adam McLane, Darren Richardson, Adam Strong and Steven Turnbull. Finally, after all the recent injury problems, Bishops were able to name five substitutes.

Benfield have been difficult opponents for Bishops in recent years with the Two Blues having tasted success only once in their ten previous league outings. But the home side have troubles of their own this season and they parted company before kick off with assistant manager Tom Wade, a flare up that caused enough turmoil for the home side to fail to get their team sheet in on time.

But things seemed a little more organised for them on the uneven and bobbly pitch and Benfield took the lead in only the 12th minute. A quick cross field ball stretched the Bishops defence and Teasdale’s shot thumped off the post and rebounded straight to Chilton who gave keeper Bishop no chance despite the even narrower angle.

Benfield continued to put the Bishops defence under pressure but Wayne Clarke was on hand to head behind and concede the corner when he had two home attackers in close attendance.

When the away side finally started to put things together they too were a threat in the final third of the pitch. The Northern League’s top goal scorer was thwarted on three occasions as he sought to add to his tally of 15 league goals.

Andrew Johnson’s first sight at goal produced a dipping shot that would not come down fast enough and the ball flew over the crossbar. His second effort was pushed behind for a corner by keeper Grainger, but the third chance ended in shouts for handball when AJ’s shot was blocked by a defender which brought to end a good move that also involved Chris Bell and Dan Hawkins down the right wing.

Simon Bishop made saves from Teasdale and Turnbull to keep the home side’s lead to just one but more often than not the Bishops’ keeper was able to make comfortable saves at head height.

Just when it seemed that Benfield would enjoy a half-time lead, Hawkins prodded the ball past Grainger to equalise in the second minute of added time. The striker took a hard knock from Lumsden for his trouble, and the home captain was fortunate to escape without a booking.

HT: Newcastle Benfield 1, Bishop Auckland 1

With Lewis Brown pushing further upfield after the break Bishops attacked with more purpose as they searched for the vital second goal and the midfielder was unlucky not to be able to get something on the ball as it evaded him and Grainger collected it safely inside the six-yard box.

Steven Walklate picked up a harsh yellow card after questioning the decision of the assistant referee. A peculiar decision made by referee Patton having failed to book Lumsden for his late challenge on Hawkins in the first half or his crunching tackle on Bell early in the second. But the worst decision made by the match official came when he failed to award Bishops a penalty when Brown was clearly felled in the box by Wilary.

But the visitors finally took a deserved lead twenty minutes from time when Bell glanced his header from a Darren Atkinson cross over the keeper and into the net. It was a faint touch, but it was just enough.

As nerves began to jangle, Hawkins got his second of the game deep in added time when he slotted a Brumwell through ball through Grainger’s legs to claim all three points and speculation continued about what was meant by the sign: "Bang goes your mangos".

Speaking to the Northern Echo after the game, Bishop Auckland manager Colin Myers said: "We played really well — that was our best performance for a while. We scored two of our goals straight from the training field".

The three points won and wins for the teams directly above Bishops keeps them firmly in ninth place in the league table, although there is now a four point gap to the clutch of teams below. The Two Blues have now lost only once in their last eight league games.

Full Time Score:

Newcastle Benfield 1 (Chilton, 12")

Bishop Auckland 3 (Hawkins, 45"+2", 90"+1"; Bell, 70")

— DE

MARSKE UNITED 2, BISHOP AUCKLAND 2

Northern League Division One

Saturday, 22nd October, 2011

Marske United 2, Bishop Auckland 2

MATCH REPORT 

Peter Jeffries / Stephen Salvin (capt) / Wayne Clarke / Lewis Brown / Adam McLane (Phil Brumwell, 66 mins) / Darren Richardson / Adam Strong (Chris Bell, 81 mins) / Steven Turnbull / Dan Hawkins / Andrew Johnson / Darren Atkinson

Bishop Auckland manager Colin Myers made two changes from the team that had narrowly beaten Consett at Heritage Park the previous Saturday. Darren Richardson and Steven Turnbull came into the starting eleven in place of Phil Shead and Steven Walklate.

A lovely sunny October day at the seaside, albeit with a chilly wind, and the GER Stadium offering a good view of the ships anchored in the North Sea and the local railway line linking the two towns together.

This was only Bishops second visit to Marske with the previous outing ending in a disappointing 1-4 defeat in the FA Vase a few seasons ago.

Peter Jeffries was the first keeper in action as he made a save low down to deny former Bishops player Danny Brunskill and it was clear that the away side were struggling to come to terms with the bumpy surface.

Marske should have taken the lead midway through the opening half after Jeffries came to collect a long ball which was pumped high into the box. The big keeper collided with Brunskill and went to ground and as referee Clayton waved play on, Gell lifted the ball over the stricken goalie towards the empty net only to see his lob rebound from the angle of post and crossbar. The ball fell kindly to Charlton who inexplicably put his effort wide from inside the six-yard box.

Then Jeffries, not for the first time this season, made a superb double save to maintain parity. First he pulled off a terrific block to deny Gell and was able to keep Charlton’s effort out from point blank range.

Bishops were continuing to struggle although they did finally put together a good passing move on the half hour which culminated with a Darren Atkinson shot flying over the bar after an assist from Darren Richardson.

Five minutes from half-time, the visitors took a surprising lead with a well worked goal. Andrew Johnson won the ball in a challenge in the centre of the park and played it out to Richardson on the right. He cut inside and unleashed a powerful left foot shot that found the bottom corner of Willey’s net.

HT: Marske United 0, Bishop Auckland 1

It was the same score at half-time way back in September 2008 when then second division Marske scored four second half goals to deservedly progress in the FA Vase, but this time there would be only three goals scored and not all by the home team.

After Dan Hawkins shot over from 25 yards out, Marske equalised courtesy of some quick attacking play. Adam Strong was dispossessed and whilst play could have been halted for a possible foul on the Bishops man, a long ball forward found Charlton, whose dipping shot flew over Jeffries and into the net in the 55th minute.

The rest of the half was a pretty drab affair punctuated by fouls and numerous substitutions.

Bishops came closest to regaining the lead during this spell but they were denied when Whilley palmed Richardson’s volley inches wide of the post after the winger superbly met Johnson’s pinpoint cross.

Just as a draw seemed the likely result, the game burst into life in the dying minutes and Marske took the lead from a right wing corner when an unchallenged Thompson headed in from close range at the back post.

Perhaps that would have been the final result in recent seasons, but Bishops have proved themselves difficult to beat this term and heads were certainly not dropped as they attacked straight from the restart.

Two minutes into added time, Richardson collected a cross into the box, turned and shot low past keeper Willey. The net bulged and the crowd in the cold shade behind the goal celebrated an unlikely equaliser.

Speaking to the Northern Echo after the game, Marske United manager Paul Burton said: "The lads worked hard and played well. If we continue to play like that, then we’ll get out of trouble".

Bishop Auckland manager Colin Myers said: "I know we got a point, but I thought Marske deserved to win the game. I thought only five or six of our players were good enough, and we missed a good opportunity to climb the table".

The point gained means that Bishops remain in ninth place in the Northern League table and have lost just once in their last seven league fixtures.

Full Time Score:

Marske United 2 (Charlton, 55"; Thompson, 90")

Bishop Auckland 2 (Richardson, 40" & 90"+2")

— DE

CHRISTMAS PARTY NIGHTS AT HERITAGE PARK

Bishop Auckland FC will be hosting Christmas party nights at Heritage Park on the evenings of 9th December and 23rd December.

Cost is £20 for a three course carvery meal plus disco for the evening.

You, your family, or your business can make a booking by contacting Kim on 07742 567 700.

These promise to be great nights, so please make your bookings as soon as possible. 

BISHOP AUCKLAND 3, CONSETT 2

Northern League Division One

Saturday 15th October, 2011

Bishop Auckland 3, Consett 2

MATCH REPORT

Team:  Peter Jeffries, Wayne Clarke, Stephen Salvin, Steven Walklate, Adam McLane, Lewis Brown, Adam Strong, Phil Shead, Dan Hawkins, Andrew Johnson, Darren Atkinson

Manager Colin Myers started with Adam Strong, Phil Shead and Dan Hawkins back into the team with Steven Turnbull and Chris Bell dropping to the bench and Dion Raitt out injured.

Bishops started brightly on a sunny day and had the first real chance on 10 minutes when Strong passed to Shead who fed Johnson but the striker's low shot was well saved.

As on Wednesday, Bishops took an early lead.  A deep cross from the right was toed by Atkinson to Dan Hawkins whose 15 yard shot took a slight deflection on its way to the net with 14 minutes on the clock.

Inside a minute and Shead slotted the ball through on the floor for Andrew Johnson who fired a low shot past Jameson for 2-0.

McLane was lucky to avoid the book from a mis-timed tackle on the edge of the 18 yard box, but the free kick came to nothing.

Bishops were again on the attack a few minutes later when Dan Hawkins won the ball and rode a tackle before pushing the ball through to Atkinson but his low shot was well saved.

Deja vu was setting in when Bishops failed to clear their lines and Marc Walton mis-hit a shot which scuffed just inside the right hand post to bring Consett back into the game. 2-1.

Unlike Wednesday, Bishops restricted the visitors to one goal at the interval.

HT Bishop Auckland 2, Consett 1

First into the book was Andy Johnson, picking up a needless Yellow for kicking the ball away early in the second half.

Consett missed a great chance to equalise on 49 minutes when Dale Burrell blazed wide of Jeffries far post.

Adam McLane was next in the book after one foul too many.

The equaliser came on the hour.  A low shot across Jeffries looked like it was going to be unsuccessful, but the Bishops 'keeper parried the ball and Michael Mackay pounced on the loose ball to prod home from close range.

Consett hit the self destruct five minutes later.  Keeper Jameson had alread been warned for pushing Johnson as Bishops prepared to take a corner, but when the flag kick came, Jameson shoved Johnson two handed and the referee had little option but to award a penalty.

Johnson slotted just inside the left hand post to make it 3-2.

Salvin was next in the book on 68 minutes when he leant on a defender just outside the box, and after a theatrical fall Salvin picked up a harsh Yellow.

Jeffries pulled off an unorthodox save hacking a low cross out with his feet, before saving a weak follow up shot as Consett began to pile on the pressure.

Bishops defence was stretched to breaking point but Consett failed to take their chances and Bishops still looked dangerous at the other end.

Dan Hawkins fired in a wicket shot on 82 minutes which Jameson spilled, but Andy Johnson was unable to get the rebound into the net, although this was subsequently flagged offside.

A minute later and Consett substitute Ross fired into the side netting from what looked like a good angle.

Jeffries failed to hold a shot with five minutes remaining, and captain Salvin had to come to the rescue with a good block.

Into injury time and Jeffries pulled off a super save when Mackay had a free header from eight yards from a right wing cross, but the 'keeper stretched to his right to push the ball out for a corner.

Darren Atkinson failed with a one-on-one chance late in the game as Bishops successfully ran the clock down for another home win.

FT Bishop Auckland 3, Consett 2

BISHOP AUCKLAND 2, BEDLINGTON TERRIERS 3

Northern League Division One

Wednesday, 12th October, 2011

Bishop Auckland 2, Bedlington Terriers 3

MATCH REPORT 

Peter Jeffries / Wayne Clarke / Adam McLane / Steven Walklate / Lewis Brown / Stephen Salvin (capt) / Chris Bell / Dion Raitt (David Wells, 76 mins) / Steven Turnbull / Andrew Johnson / Darren Atkinson

After the heroics of the nine-men in securing a point at Dean Street on Saturday, Bishops returned home to welcome Bedlington Terriers on their visit to Heritage Park. Prolonged drizzle in the days before the game meant that the pitch required some forking, but with only light mizzle forecast for the evening, there was only the odd areas of surface water evident and those patches would have no real impact on the action.

Colin Myers made four changes to the team that drew with Shildon. Phil Brumwell, Dan Hawkins, Darren Richardson and David Wells making way for Darren Atkinson, Lewis Brown, Wayne Clarke and Steven Turnbull. Chris Bell was playing his 50th game for the club.

An early scare came in the opening exchanges when Shandran turned his defender and surged into the box, but Peter Jeffries saved with his feet and the danger was cleared.

But Bishops came more and more into the game and they deservedly took the lead in the 13th minute. A free kick on the left was floated perfectly into the box by Chris Bell and Andrew Johnson was allowed too much time and space to bring the ball down, turn and shoot low past keeper Morton.

Ten minutes later and Johnson got his second of the night when Dion Raitt superbly chipped the ball over the defence to the forward who, despite the inevitable shouts for offside, was clearly onside as he shot through the legs of Morton.

It was an excellent finish and the second home match in succession that the Bishops man had netted himself a brace. Perhaps to celebrate the feat, across the Sainsbury’s car park and into the distance a short but impressive firework display commenced.

Terriers responded, and Bishops were thankful once again to their goalkeeper as a combination of Jeffries and the upright once again prevented Shandran from getting his name on the score sheet.

Bishops could have gone even further ahead when Darren Atkinson chased a long ball and after harrying a defender, he passed inside to Riatt. The midfielders’ long range first time shot was struck powerfully enough, but the ball flew inches wide of the upright. Seems like we will have to wait a little longer for Dion’s first goal in Auckland colours.

Although Bedlington had created a couple of chances of their own, Bishops had put together an excellent 35 minutes of play and it looked likely that they would go on to comfortably win the game, but that all changed in the last five minutes of the first half.

A right wing corner was initially cleared out of the danger area but when the cross came in again from English, Snowden rose highest to head past the diving Jeffries.

Any hopes of a Bishops lead at the interval disappeared on the stroke of half-time when Steven Turnbull’s untidy challenge resulted in a free kick 30 yards from goal. English was again the provider, but this time it was visiting captain Flynn who supplied the header.

HT: Bishop Auckland 2, Bedlington Terriers 2

After the disappointment of surrendering a two goal lead, Bishops seemed unable to raise their game after the break and it seemed only a matter of time that the visitors would eventually score a decisive third.

It should have been scored by Hubbard but his effort crashed off the face of the crossbar straight to Shandran, whose follow up went wide.

But Terriers were not to be denied and just after the hour, the English and Flynn combination worked again and the visiting skipper had his second of the night.

Dion Raitt was helped off the field 15 minutes from the end when he was injured as he launched himself into another trademark tackle. David Wells was his replacement.

But it was Johnson who had the best opportunity to score an equaliser when he collected Jeffries’ long clearance. Disappointingly, the forward dragged his shot wide. Nonetheless, AJ now leads the Northern League scoring charts, having already notched up an impressive nineteen goals in only 18 appearances.

Speaking to the Northern Echo after the game, Bishop Auckland manager Colin Myers said: "We were cruising at 2-0, and then we allowed them two completely free headers. It was a very disappointing result, on the basis of what the players did at Shildon in our previous game. We didn’t have much of a go in the second half, we’re either outstanding or very poor".

Let’s hope Bishops are outstanding vs Consett!

Full Time Score:

Bishop Auckland 2 (Johnson, 13" & 23")

Bedlington Terriers 3 (Snowden, 40"; Flynn, 45" & 61")

— DE

SHILDON 2, BISHOP AUCKLAND 2

Northern League Division One

Saturday, 8th October, 2011

Shildon 2, Bishop Auckland 2

MATCH REPORT 

Peter Jeffries / Stephen Salvin (capt) / Phil Brumwell / Steven Walklate / Adam McLane / Darren Richardson / Chris Bell / Dion Raitt / Dan Hawkins / Andy Johnson / David Wells (Darren Atkinson, 53 mins) 

The third local derby of the season and the first one away as Bishops made the short journey to Dean Street to take on Shildon. With Stephen Salvin returning from a month in Brazil, Colin Myers made just one change from the team that edged past Stokesley Sports Club in midweek. ‘Salla’ returned to defensive and captaincy duties with Darren Atkinson missing out.

The match kicked off in a light drizzle that continued throughout much of the game and the combination of a lush pitch and dew had players slipping and sliding on occasion. Bishops were attacking the "trawler end" with its big ‘dolphin friendly’ if not supporter friendly netting.

Shildon had the opening chance but Peter Jeffries gave an indication of his continuing superb form as he saved from Johnson, but Bishops forward play looked much more threatening than in midweek and the Two Blues looked dangerous, especially from crosses and corners into the box.

Chris Bell’s kick from the right found an unmarked Adam McLane, whose header towards the top corner of the net was palmed behind by Finch. From the resulting corner, the Shildon keeper was impeded from getting anywhere near the ball by his own defenders and as Bishops bundled the ball over the line as the home defence tried desperately to clear, referee Young’s whistle came to the aid of the Railwaymen.

The Two Blues attacked again, and from another Bell corner, McLane’s header was cleared off the line by Hughes at the far post as the Shildon defence struggled to deal with the accuracy of Bishops set plays.

Therefore, it was no surprise that the visitors opened the scoring in the 21st minute from yet another corner. A number of players from both sides attacked the cross, but home captain Keegan got the vital touch, powering a header past a despairing Finch.

There were the inevitable shouts for a penalty at the other end but Salvin and McLane’s last ditch tackles in the box were both well timed and rightly adjudged fair by the match official.

But Bishops were thankful once again to their keeper as he pulled off a fabulous flying save to deny Hughes’ curling shot before he saved Johnson’s header to preserve Bishops narrow lead at the half-time interval.

HT: Shildon 0, Bishop Auckland 1

The second half became a somewhat stormy affair after McLane was shown a second yellow card despite clearly winning the ball in a tackle in the 51st minute and barely seven minutes later, Dion Raitt was issued a straight red card for a careless challenge in the centre circle.

If holding out with ten men would be difficult, the prospect of playing with nine for over half an hour meant that Bishops had to reorganise and defend deeply, although Johnson remained upfront and always offered a willing target if the clearances could find him.

Jeffries pulled off a remarkable double save to deny Hughes and then Johnson before the match official blew for a penalty, apparently for handball. It seemed a ludicrous decision and an ‘infringement’ seen only by the referee himself as players and supporters of both teams seemed genuinely perplexed by the award. Nonetheless, substitute Byrne, who had come on a minute or so earlier, stepped up to send Jeffries the wrong way.

Despite Jeffries’ heroics in saving from Johnson and then Price, the home side were not to be denied a second when Byrne scored again as play continued despite a Bishop player being fouled in the build up. Before the match restarted the referee responded to Colin Myers’ comment: "I hope you are happy now" by sending the Bishops’ manager from the dug out.

As the away supporters lifted their team with varying shouts, including the unforgettable, "We’ve only got nine men" and "You’ve only got twelve men", Bishops were not to be denied the point that their performance at least deserved, despite the advantages awarded to the home side. As the watch clicked into injury time, Darren Richardson headed in a right wing cross to cue wild celebrations from players and supporters in blue.

Speaking to the Northern Echo after the game the Bishops boss said: "It was a fantastic achievement by our players, considering that we played with two men short for 35 minutes. I’ve never seen nine players work as hard as that, and to fight back for a draw was superb, they showed outstanding commitment. Obviously, we’re not happy with the referee. There have been comments recently about them being inconsistent, and I would agree with them"

Full Time Score:

Shildon 2 (Byrne, 72" (p) & 81")

Bishop Auckland 2 (Keegan (og), 21"; Richardson, 90+1")

— DE

BISHOP AUCKLAND 3, STOKESLEY SC 1

Northern League Division One

Wednesday, 5th October, 2011

Bishop Auckland 3, Stokesley Sports Club 1

MATCH REPORT 

Peter Jeffries / Darren Atkinson / David Wells / Phil Brumwell (capt) (Lewis Brown, 63 mins) / Adam McLane / Steven Walklate / Chris Bell (Adam Strong, 90+2 mins) / Dion Raitt (Steven Turnbull, 53 mins) / Dan Hawkins / Andy Johnson / Darren Richardson

Bottom club Stokesley Sports Club visited Heritage Park hoping to improve on their abysmal start to the season having lost all but one of their previous 15 games during which they have already conceded 86 goals. Bishops had to be on their guard not to take anything for granted and so the pressure was on not to drop points against the relegation certainties as Norton & Stockton Ancients had done.

Colin Myers made two changes from the side that gained a point against South Shields. Simon Bishop and Phil Shead made way for the returning Peter Jeffries and David Wells. A warm but windy evening as the remnants of yet another hurricane battered the country, and Bishops started with the breeze at their backs at kick off.

Dan Hawkins gave an indication of things to come as his long range effort curled wide of the upright in the opening exchanges but Andy Johnson opened the scoring in only the fifth minute from even further out. The prolific forward’s free kick from 30 yards went through the hands and legs of visiting keeper Hutchinson.

Perhaps inspired by the Stokesley goalies howler, Bishops attacked looking to extend their lead but were profligate in front of goal as they wasted a series of chances.

First, Dion Raitt volleyed over the crossbar from a Chris Bell corner then Hawkins, having received a pinpoint defence splitting pass from Raitt, beat the offside trap only to screw his shot disappointingly wide with only the keeper to beat.

Raitt was in the thick of the action as he shot over the bar before another free kick found Adam McLane in the penalty area, but the defender couldn’t get enough on the ball to trouble Hutchinson.

But the second goal finally came in the 20th minute when Bell ran past his marker down the right before crossing to the far post where Darren Richardson sweetly struck a powerful shot into the corner or the net.

Peter Jeffries had little to do until the 23rd minute when the visitors were eventually awarded a penalty for handball against Phil Brumwell. The Bishops keeper dived low to his left to thwart Porritt and as the two converged, the ball went behind for a goal kick as the forward went down theatrically. It was Jeffries’ second successive penalty stop at Heritage Park.

At the other end, Bishops continued to press although the tactic of shooting from 25 yards plus was not fruitful with both goal scorer’s efforts flying high and wide.

With Johnson standing in an offside position, although clearly not interfering with play despite the visitors’ protestations, Hawkins surged into the box to chase down his own pass forward but keeper Hutchinson was fractionally first to the ball on the edge of the area.

Bishops missed the opportunity for a three goal half-time lead when Butterworth cleared McLane’s header off the line.

HT: Bishop Auckland 2, Stokesley Sports Club 0

The visitors attacked with much more purpose after the break and Jeffries saved a poor shot from Melvin when he had two other players outside him as Bishops full back and covering winger went missing, but Stokesley were back in the game in the 54th minute when Melvin curled his shot into the net off the post, although Darren Atkinson appeared to be fouled in the build up.

Perhaps sensing a shock, Stokesley attacked more and more and as they did the home side became more and more nervy as did the majority of the 213 crowd. Fortunately, Jeffries was aware of the danger and was quick to dive at the feet of Upton as he closed in on the Bishops’ goal unchallenged.

However, the big keeper caused a flutter or two when he uncharacteristically fumbled a corner straight to Dixon, but the visiting winger bundled the ball past the post.

With twenty minutes to go, Johnson scored his second of the evening when he outpaced the struggling defence too coolly finish and from then on the result was not in any doubt. The quietness that greeted the final whistle reflected the crowd’s disappointment at the performance, perhaps they were expecting a goal fest?

Nonetheless, the three points won mean that Bishops are up to ninth in the league table and have notched up 16 points from their opening eleven league games, the same tally as at this stage last season.

Full Time Score:

Bishop Auckland 3 (Johnson, 5" & 70"; Richardson, 20")

Stokesley Sports Club 1 (Melvin, 54")

— DE

BISHOP AUCKLAND 2, SOUTH SHIELDS 2

Northern League Division One

Saturday, 1st October, 2011

Bishop Auckland 2, South Shields

MATCH REPORT

Simon Bishop / Phil Shead / Darren Atkinson / Phil Brumwell (capt) / Adam McLane / Steven Walklate / Dion Raitt (Steven Turnbull, 78 mins) / Darren Richardson / Dan Hawkins / Andy Johnson / Chris Bell (David Wells, 85 mins)

With players returning from injury, Colin Myers made five changes to the team that exited the FA Vase at Sunderland RCA last Saturday. Lewis Brown, Wayne Clarke (suspended), Mark Foster, Chris Lawson and Steven Turnbull made way for Darren Atkinson, Adam McLane, Phil Shead and Steven Walklate. Dion Raitt was making his first appearance this campaign.

South Shields kicked off in the unseasonally warm sunshine and were soon on the attack. A throw on the right was nodded into the box were Ramsey cushioned his half-volley which bounced behind the Bishops’ goal off the top of the crossbar with Simon Bishop watching proceedings unconcerned.

Chris Bell has seemed a little out of sorts of late, but finally his confidence has returned and his mazy dribbling runs caused problems for the Shields full backs all game.

When the Bishops’ winger was given too much time and space on the corner of the visitors’ penalty area, his pinpoint cross to the far post was met by a powerful Darren Atkinson header that flew just wide of the upright, apparently getting a touch along the way. The resultant corner struck the face of the crossbar but went behind.

The Shields goal was then put under further pressure when Dan Hawkins shot wide and Darren Richardson headed a good chance over.

But almost out of the blue, the visitors took advantage of a terrible backpass to take the lead in the 12th minute. Two Mariners sprinted behind the flat footed defence and when keeper Bishop seemed to shepherd Ramsey wide it looked like the Two Blues might escape, but the forwards’ shot from a narrow angle beat the despairing covering defender on the line.

Bishops hit back and were deservedly level within six minutes. A move on the left wing was ended when the returning Adam McLane rose bravely at the far post and headed in from close range despite the presence of another Bishop player, a defender and keeper Ball. McLane’s equaliser was his first goal for the Auckland.

Bell then had an opportunity to put the home side ahead but his well struck shot was always curling wide before the visitors missed three good chances to regain the lead. Kirkup headed the ball off the post as the Two Blues defenders seemed to look on and Simon Bishop denied Brabbs and then Benjamin, the latter choosing inexplicably to backheel an effort at goal when he had time and space to shoot directly at goal.

But it was not one way traffic and Bell’s mazy run and shot forced keeper Ball to save low down and from the corner, Johnson’s header became the fourth Bishops’ chance to fly the wrong side of the right-hand post.

Southern restored the visitors lead in the 42nd minute when he lashed his shot into the roof of the net only for Bell to equalise within a minute when he cut in from the left and fired in a low shot past Ball.

HT: Bishop Auckland 2, South Shields 2

After the break, both teams had plenty of chances to take all three points, but neither team scored the winning goal. Opinion seemed to be divided as to who had the better chances in the second period, but Bishops missed their fair share of opportunities to claim the spoils after Southern’s chip for the Mariners went over goalkeeper and the crossbar.

Raitt and Atkinson combined well at a set-piece free kick, but Raitt’s long range 30 yard shot was comfortably palmed behind by keeper Ball.

Phil Shead and Bell combined down the right before the wingers’ cross into the box found Johnson, but the prolific forward could only flick at the ball and the visiting keeper was able to collect comfortably enough.

Another Bishops free kick from distance was taken by Raitt but Johnson’s deflection went the wrong side of the post and when substitute Wells shot over the bar after Bishops had switched play quickly from right to left, one had a feeling that neither side were destined to claim the win.

When referee Duffy finally blew for time, Bishops had gained a valuable point against a team that had won their previous three games. Perhaps, on balance, the game deserved to finish as a draw. The result lifts the Two Blues up one place in the league table to 13th.

Relegation likely Stokesley Sports Club are the next visitors to Heritage Park. Looking at both teams results, there should be plenty of goals to look forward to, but Bishops must not take their opponents or a win for granted.

Full Time Score:

Bishop Auckland 2 (McLane, 18"; Bell, 43")

South Shields 2 (Ramsey, 12"; Southern, 42")

— DE

NEW FIXTURES ANNOUNCED

Two exciting new fixtures added to the calendar in the last couple of days.

West Auckland Town will be visiting Heritage Park in the Durham Challenge Cup 1st Round, in early November - probably Wednesday 2nd November - at 7.30pm.

Sunderland AFC will be sending their reserve team to Heritage Park for a Friendly on Wednesday 18th January with a 7pm Kick Off.

Admission for both of these fixtures will be the usual £5 for adults and £3 for concessions.

SUNDERLAND RCA 5, BISHOP AUCKLAND 3

FA Vase 2nd Qualifying Round

Saturday 24th September, 2011

Sunderland RCA 5, Bishop Auckland 3

MATCH REPORT

Team: Simon Bishop, Wayne Clarke, Phil Brumwell, Mark Foster, Chris Lawson, Darren Richardson, Lewis Brown, Steven Turnbull (Mark Waite 80mins), Dan Hawkins, Andrew Johnson, Chris Bell (Darren Atkinson 87mins)

The now familiar selection issues before today's game with Darren Richardson and Dan Hawkins back from holiday and Mark Foster returning after an injury break leaving ten players unavailable for today's game - Adam Strong, Stephen Salvin, Steven Walklate, Peter Jeffries, Arran Wearmouth, Karl Everitt, Adam McLane, Dion Raitt, Phil Shead and David Wells. Darren Atkinson took a placed on the bench after several weeks out.

Bishops made a nightmare slow start and RCA should have opened the scoring on eight minutes when Stewart tried to put power on a header but instead put it yards over the bar.

The home side were ahead three minutes later when after blocking one chance, which appeared to be from an offside position, the ball fell to Walton who lashed it into the top corner through a crowded area.

Two minutes later and RCA's long ball approach paid off again with a long throw into the Bishops area to which Davison applied a final touch.

Bishops came back into the game after these initial setbacks.  Johnson was flagged offside from one good attack, and midway through the half Johnson beat his man on the right and crossed low.  The ball was partially cleared but fell to Brown 15 yards from goal whose low shot was blocked on the line.  A follow up shot went over the bar.

Bishops should have had their first penalty of the day when from a 28th minute corner, RCA 'keeper Hoggeth charged from his line to shove Johnson to the floor as the ball was travelling into the area.  Justice was done three minutes later when Johnson cut the ball back beautifully on the edge of the area, and with the defender floundering the forward slipped.  The linesman thought he saw a foul, although nobody else did.  Johnson converted past Hoggeth off the inside of the left hand post from the spot to bring Bishops back into the game.

Cover your eyes as on 34 minutes Walton ignored the ball and launched himself through the air elbow first into Mark Foster's face.  The X-rated challenge should have resulted in a red card, but only warrented a stern word from the erratic official.

Five minutes later and RCA scored again through Davison and Bishop was called into action to tip a shot over just before the interval as Bishops limped to the break and a chance to get back into the game down the slope.

HT Sunderland RCA 3, Bishop Auckland 1

The second half started in typical fashion with Bishops failing to get their football together, and an RCA player planting Brumwell head first into a pitchside advertising board.  Not even a talking to for this deliberate act of violence.

Bishops had the ball in the net on 55 minutes when Turnbull challenged Hoggeth for a high ball and the 'keeper carried the ball over the line.  The referee was probably within his rights to give a foul, but as Turnbull had challenged shoulder to shoulder the yellow card was ridiculous given what had gone on before.

After another strange non-decision for an ignored foul in Bishops area, both Foster and Bishop were yellow carded for dissent.

Davison scored again on 76 minutes as Bishops pushed forward and really that should have been game over.  However, Bishops came straight down the pitch and Johnson clipped the ball in from a tight angle to make it 4-2, and Bishops suddenly had a lift.

RCA collectively lost their cool on 78 minutes.  Johnson, charging into the box, was scythed down ankle high by Beasley's mis-timed and aggressive tackle.  A clear penalty, this time awarded.  The match official then had to contend with Beasley manhandling him and three RCA players spitting venom from close range.  After a couple of minutes delay, and predictably no cards, Johnson slotted home the penalty for his second FA Vase hat-trick of the season. 4-3.

Richardson came close a few minutes later as Bishops piled on the pressure, but the closest chance for the visitors came when on 86 minutes Johnson curled a shot from wide on the left which Hoggeth touched onto the bar.

After having to run the clock down in the corners of the pitch for much of the last five minutes to hang onto their lead, RCA broke the ball into the box in the final seconds and Davison scored again from close range.  This time it really was game over.

FT Sunderland RCA 5, Bishop Auckland 3

 

HERITAGE PARK CARVERY - SUNDAY 25th - CANCELLED

Sunday's Carvery at Heritage Park has been cancelled.

BISHOP AUCKLAND 0, SUNDERLAND RCA 0

Northern League Division One

Saturday, 17th September, 2011

Bishop Auckland 0, Sunderland RCA 0

MATCH REPORT

Simon Bishop / Phil Brumwell (capt) (Mark Waite, 60 mins) / Wayne Clarke / Lewis Brown / Chris Lawson / Steven Walklate (Karl Everitt, 69 mins) / Chris Bell / Philip Shead / Steven Turnbull / Andrew Johnson / David Wells

Saturday at Heritage Park, and part two of the trilogy brought a quick league return between the two clubs. RCA had narrowly won the first match on a windy night at Meadow Park and Bishops were looking to bounce straight back against the early league leaders who had already opened up a seven point gap over their nearest challengers.

With the seemingly never ending crises caused by injury, holidays and unavailability, Colin Myers was forced to make two changes from the side that lost in midweek. Steven Walklate had recovered sufficiently enough to be named in the starting eleven along with Philip Shead who was making a rare start for the Two Blues. Darren Richardson and Adam Strong were unavailable.

RCA were quickly on the attack putting Bishops’ defence on the back foot straight from the off. A couple of early uncharacteristic handling errors from Simon Bishop were soon forgotten as the Two Blues keeper put in an excellent performance to thwart the visitors.

Sunderland created the first chance after pinging the ball from one wing to another, a cross came in from the right and, having got underneath it, Bishop could only look on as Close’s unchallenged header went well wide of the far post.

Defensive nerves were evident minutes later when a free kick was awarded just outside the Bishops penalty area. Cuthbertson crossed low into the box where Lewis Brown got just enough on it to knock the ball out for a corner.

Keeper Bishop came into his own as he was forced to save headers from Jennings, Cuthbertson and Davison as the home defenders seemed to struggle against the taller opposition forwards.

Nonetheless, it was the Two Blues who created the best opening in the first half when Steven Turnbull put Andrew Johnson through but the prolific forwards’ shot clipped the outside of the far post with keeper Hoggeth well beaten.

At times, Bishops’ appeared to struggle to put a series of passes together, but when they did, Johnson took advantage and skipped past Butler before crossing to the far post. Unfortunately, David Wells’ header went the wrong side of the upright.

HT: Bishop Auckland 0, Sunderland RCA 0

It was much the same after the half-time interval, with Bishops struggling and RCA attacking frequently but being denied by an in-form Simon Bishop in the home goal.

First, the veteran keeper dived bravely at the feet of ex-Bishop Bryan Stewart as he closed dangerously in on goal. Then, Bishop pulled off a couple of good saves to preserve parity. Stewart crossed from the left to an unmarked Jones just eight yards out, but the Two Blues keeper was on hand to make the save and when the RCA players were later appealing for a handball against Brown, Bishop denied Davison from point blank range.

After the hour, Bishops made two substitutions. New signing Mark Waite replaced a struggling Philip Brumwell (60 mins) and Karl Everitt came on for Steven Walklate (69 mins), who understandably looked a little off the pace having returned from injury.

Sunderland RCA did have the ball in the net after 68 mins but the assistant raised his flag as Jennings, standing offside one yard from the goal line, appeared to bundle the ball over the line with an arm and his midriff.

Visiting keeper Hoggeth had a fairly quiet afternoon, but when Chris Bell passed through for Johnson to shoot, no Bishop player was on hand to take advantage of the goalies spill.

By the time Simon Bishop saved Walton’s volley, only those with tickets showing "90" and "00" were still interested in the Golden Goal competition and when the final whistle went shortly afterwards, Bishops and RCA had played out Heritage Park’s second goalless draw.

Speaking to the Northern Echo after the game, Sunderland RCA’s manager, Neil Hixon said: "We murdered them, Their keeper made ten top drawer saves, a fair result would have been 10-3". Bishop Auckland manager Colin Myers said: "It was proper backs to the wall stuff in the second half, but the lads showed plenty of character".

With all things considered, Bishops’ makeshift team gained a useful point against the league leaders, and became only the second team this season to take points off Sunderland RCA.

The third leg of the trilogy takes place on Saturday at Meadow Park when the two sides meet in the FA Vase.

Full Time Score:

Bishop Auckland 0, Sunderland RCA 0

— DE

SUNDERLAND RCA 3, BISHOP AUCKLAND 2

Northern League Division One

Tuesday, 13th September, 2011

Sunderland RCA 3, Bishop Auckland 2

MATCH REPORT

Simon Bishop / Phil Brumwell (capt) / Wayne Clarke / Lewis Brown / Chris Lawson / Steven Turnbull / Chris Bell / Darren Richardson / Adam Strong / Andrew Johnson / David Wells

With Bishops still ravaged by injuries and unavailability, Colin Myers was forced to make three changes from the side that won at Chester Moor in the Vase on Saturday. Simon Bishop, Lewis Brown and Darren Richardson came into the starting eleven to replace Peter Jeffries, Mark Foster and Phil Shead for this league match against the early pace setters who were already six points clear at the top of the table.

With the remnants of Hurricane Katia battering most of northern Britain, the match at Meadow Park kicked off with gale force winds blowing down the hill towards the North Sea. The home side would have the advantage of the slope and stiff breeze in the first half.

Both sides were understandably struggling to cope with the conditions in the first twenty minutes or so and Simon Bishop was called on to make the game’s first save, albeit with his feet. At the top of the hill, which seemed to escape the worst of the wind, Bishops were putting some good play together and a Chris Bell shot was deflected behind of a defender.

The next deflected shot found the back of RCA’s net. Defender Carling leant into the ball with an outstretched arm and referee Yates had no hesitation in awarding a free kick for the clear handball. Andrew Johnson stepped up and curled his 25 yard shot from a central position into the net courtesy of a deflection. The defender’s touch was vital as it left keeper Hoggeth completely wrong footed. Nonetheless, it was the Bishop forwards’ twelfth goal of the season in just his tenth game in Auckland colours. He is certainly racking up the goal bonuses.

Almost straight from the restart the home side were level when Maddison scored from a powerful header leaving keeper Bishop with no chance and the defence looking at each other.

Bishops attacks became less frequent as they battled against the elements and as the home side sought to take full advantage of the conditions, Bishop was again called into action as he got down quickly to thwart ex-Two Blues player, Brian Stewart.

Despite the disappointment of not holding on to their lead, things were looking pretty good for the away side until in injury time when Maddison scored his second with another header.

HT: Sunderland RCA 2, Bishop Auckland 1

A chance to enjoy the half-time refreshments also gave both clubs’ officials opportunity to agree that Johnson should be given the credit for the opening goal.

Bishops were a much different proposition after the break and having gotten a feel for the conditions they dominated possession and created the best chances in the second half.

Adam Strong latched on to a long through ball and got off a good shot that had keeper Hoggeth diving at full stretch, but the forward’s shot went inches wide of the upright.

But Bishops deservedly equalised within a couple of minutes of Strong’s effort. After more sustained pressure, David Wells took a corner from the right that bounced up off the near post and into the net off the back of Ellison with Johnson in close attendance. Hoggeth dived and knocked the ball back into play, but the goal had already been given.

Disappointingly, lessons were not learned from the first RCA goal and within moments of the restart, the home side broke quickly and Stewart fired the ball into the net to restore Sunderland’s lead.

From then on, it was all Bishops as the Sunderland defence hung on desperately as the visitors once again went in search of an equaliser.

When Johnson was cynically pulled down by Carling (who was very fortunate to escape the game without seeing a yellow card), the prolific forward again tried his luck from a central free kick but this time the wall deflected his shot to safety.

Seizing on the panic amongst the home defenders Darren Richardson claimed a loose ball, but his shot flew about a foot wide of the upright, and when the efforts came in on target, Hoggeth managed to make a couple of saves that preserved RCA’s lead. Bishops did have the ball in the net again, but the referee had already whistled for an offside infringement.

Speaking to the Northern Echo after the game, Bishop Auckland manager Colin Myers said: "It was a poor performance defensively. We worked very hard, but conceded three sloppy goals, especially the winning goal".

After this defeat, Bishops drop down to tenth in the league table whilst Sunderland RCA go nine points clear. The two sides meet on Saturday for a quick league return.

Full Time Score:

Sunderland RCA 3 (Maddison, 21", 45+1"; Stewart, 59")

Bishop Auckland 2 (Johnson, 19"; Ellison (og), 58")

— DE

CHESTER LE STREET TOWN 3, BISHOP AUCKLAND 5

 FA VASE 1st QUALIFYING ROUND

Saturday, 10th September, 2011

Chester le Street Town 3, Bishop Auckland 5

MATCH REPORT

Peter Jeffries (capt) (Simon Bishop 80mins) / Phil Brumwell / Wayne Clarke (Lewis Brown 79mins) / Mark Foster (Darren Richardson HT) / Chris Lawson / Steven Turnbull / Chris Bell / Phil Shead / Adam Strong / Andrew Johnson / David Wells

After Bishops heroics of midweek, Bishops headed into a very important FA Vase at Chester le Street without the injured Adam McLane, Dion Raitt, Darren Atkinson, Arran Wearmouth and Steven Walklate and with Stephen Salvin still working in Brazil and Dan Hawkins on holiday.

Phil Shead came in for his first appearance of the season and Phil Brumwell also returned, with Richardson dropping to the bench, with the match kicking off in warm, breezy but overcast conditions.

Bishops should have taken the lead inside ten seconds when an attack immediately from the kick off saw Johnson blaze over the bar after being put through by Strong.

Chester had the next chance when on nine minutes Clarke fell allowing Evans to run through before firing a shot which Jeffries saved.  The ball rebounded to Evans who crossed to an offside team mate who chested the ball into the net before finding it had been disallowed.

Two minutes later and Johnson picked up the ball from a sliced Palmer clearance but his shot from a tight angle hit the side netting.

Jeffries was back in action a quarter of an hour into the game with a low save after Forster was dispossessed on the right of defence and the ball was crossed to an unmarked Evans who fired goalwards.

Back to the other end midway through the half and Strong was hacked down on the edge or just inside the box.  From the resulting free kick, Wells blazed over the bar.

Chester took the lead on 33 minutes with a quick break which ended with Reay sliding the ball inside Jeffries and into the net.

Tempers frayed a couple of minutes later when Lawson was battling for the ball and substitute Dial appeared to punch the Bishops defender in face.  After consulting his assistant, both players were given yellow cards by the referee.

Strong chased down a back pass and managed to block 'keeper Barlow's clearance but the ball spun across goal and was cleared.  Bishops pressure continued and Chester were lucky to survive on 40 minutes when Draper appeared to handle in the area, but the offence went un-noticed by the officials.

Bishops were level two minutes later when Johnson crossed and Lawson rose above his marker to power home a header to make it 1-1.

HT Chester le Street 1, Bishop Auckland 1

Darren Richardson replaced Mark Foster at half time, and the second half started with the threat of rain which soon became a heavy shower.

Bishops immediately took the lead when Turnbull dummied the ball through to Johnson who fired home past the advancing 'keeper.

Town looked shell-shocked and Johnson was hacked down on the edge of the area just a couple of minutes later.  The defending wall jumped to block Bell's free kick and one defender blocked the shot with an outstretched arm giving the referee little option but to award a penalty which Johnson fired to the 'keeper's right to make it 3-1.

Chester hit back swiftly when Evans made space on the left and fired in a dipping shot which flew in at the far post to make it 2-3.

Johnson was close to completing a swift hat-trick when he raced onto a ball over the top.  Barlow approached the ball and took it from Johnson's feet with his hands just outside the box but was allowed to get away with it and although he eventually saw fit to spill the ball Johnson was unable to convert.

It was all one way at this stage and Johnson was again fed by a ball through the defence.  He cleverly cut the ball back, leaving a defender floundering, and passed across goal to Strong who struggled to reach the ball at the far post.

Jeffries was back in action tipping over a long range Reay shot for a corner on 72 minutes, but a minute later Johnson had his ankles clipped by the last defender sending him crashing to the ground.  No cards, but Johnson fired the ball to the 'keeper's left from the spot to restore Bishops two goal lead.

Four minutes later and the tie was effectively over when Turnbull chipped the ball into the path of Strong who dinked the ball over Barlow and into the corner of the net for 5-2.

Lewis Brown replaced Clarke late in the half before 'keeper Jeffries went down hard on an ankle and was forced to leave the field, with Simon Bishop replacing him in goal.

Chester pulled a goal back through Draper in injury time but the contest was over at this point.

FT Chester le Street 3, Bishop Auckland 5

Bishop Auckland travel to Sunderland RCA in the second qualifying round in two weeks time.  

BISHOP AUCKLAND 1, SPENNYMOOR TOWN 0

Northern League Division One

Wednesday, 7th September, 2011

Bishop Auckland 1, Spennymoor Town 0

MATCH REPORT

Peter Jeffries (capt) / Chris Bell / Wayne Clarke / Mark Foster / Chris Lawson / Steven Turnbull / Adam Strong / Darren Richardson / Dan Hawkins / Andrew Johnson / David Wells

A midweek derby at Heritage Park, and Bishops went into the game against league champions Spennymoor Town still looking for their first home win of the season. Manager Colin Myers was once again forced to shuffle around his depleted squad with Adam Strong named in the starting eleven along with new signing David Wells in place of Phil Brumwell and Karl Everitt.

The floodlights flickered on just after the action got under way and it was clear to see that the visitors started the brighter. Peter Jeffries was in fine form as he made three early saves to deny the Moors’ forward line as the champions came forward in wave after wave of attacking football.

In the thirteenth minute, Moore lofted the ball over the Bishops’ keeper, who then seemed to bring him down in the box. As the covering defender got back on the line to comfortably clear, referee Peart blew for a penalty. Jeffries would be the first of four Two Blues players to see the yellow card.

Ruddy stepped up to take the penalty and aimed to Jeffries’ left but the big keeper guessed correctly and made a save that cued wild celebrations at the other end of the ground.

The home side’s game plan was to soak up pressure and get at the visitors at every opportunity, trying not to give them time on the ball. This resulted in some crunching first-half tackles with Mark Foster, Darren Richardson and Adam Strong all cautioned.

Spennymoor’s swift attacking play was causing problems, but when the shots came in on target, Jeffries was in superb form. Most crosses into the box were dealt with comfortably enough by Bishops’ makeshift back line.

The balance of play meant it was inevitable that Dan Hawkins and Andy Johnson would get isolated up front, with the midfielders struggling to get up field to support. Nonetheless, visiting keeper Turns was forced to make a couple of saves from long-range efforts that stung the custodian’s hands sufficiently to allow the ball to bobble free but no one in a Two Blues shirt was close enough to take advantage of the spill.

Bishops’ best period of possession eventually came on the stroke of half-time, when the ball was fizzed around the Spennymoor penalty area from right to left wing, but the final cross into the box was too easily cut out.

Not content with one penalty award Town had shouts for three more in the opening forty-five, if not from jumping into a defender or from going to ground far too easily. Thankfully, the match official was wise to the tactic and rightfully waved the desperate appeals away.

HT: Bishop Auckland 0, Spennymoor Town 0

The announcement: "Bishop Auckland 1…" at half-time seemed wishful thinking and received inevitable jeers and catcalls, but the home side would go on to score the only goal of the game midway through the second-half.

As the play became more and more stretched, Bishops’ attacking options increased and Hawkins had the ball at his feet on the right wing. His vision in shooting from way out wide completely flat footed Johnson and the Moors defenders in the penalty area. As Turns watched the ball go by him, it struck the inside of the far post and rolled over the line. Cue, yet more jubilant celebrations from Bishop Auckland fans around Heritage Park.

With Jeffries in inspired mood, a penalty saved, and the woodwork coming twice to the rescue of the Bishops, one sensed that it was not going to be the visitors’ night.

The loss of Wayne Clarke, sent off eleven minutes from time for a badly timed two-footed lunge on Harwood meant another juggling of the side but Bishops hung on comfortably enough as the Moors supporters left the main stand and trickled out of the ground and into the night.

When the final whistle blew there were celebrations on the pitch and around the ground and the Bishop team left the field to a standing ovation, none more so than keeper Peter Jeffries, who gave yet another man of the match performance.

A Delighted Colin Myers told the Northern Echo: "I think we used all our luck in one game. To be fair to the players, everyone was given a job to do, and they did it very well. Our plan was to soak up the pressure and try and catch them on the break. I told the players at half-time that if we keep it goalless for another twenty minutes, then gaps would start to appear, and that’s what happened. We were hanging on at the end, but we deserved it for the graft we put in".

This win lifts Bishops back up to eighth in the league table, although other teams do have games in hand.

Full Time Score:

Bishop Auckland 1 (Hawkins, 69"; Clarke sent off, 79")

Spennymoor Town 0

— DE

BISHOP AUCKLAND 1, JARROW ROOFING 3

Northern League Division One

Saturday, 3rd September, 2011

Bishop Auckland 1 Jarrow Roofing Boldon Community Association 3

MATCH REPORT

Team: Peter Jeffries / Phil Brumwell (capt) / Mark Foster / Karl Everitt (Lewis Brown, HT) / Wayne Clarke / Steven Turnbull / Chris Bell / Chris Lawson / Dan Hawkins / Andy Johnson / Darren Richardson (Adam Strong, 77 mins) 

A third home game of the season, with Bishops looking for their first win this campaign at Heritage Park. With no respite from those struggling with injury or unavailability, Colin Myers made two changes from the team that gained a point earlier in the week against Newton Aycliffe.

Mark Foster returned to the Bishops and took up his place in defence and Steven Turnbull was restored to the starting eleven. Lewis Brown and Adam Strong both took up places on the substitutes bench.

A couple of surprises from the visitors even before kick off. First their desire to name six substitutes when the league rule is five. Although their peculiar desire to want a newcomer to feel part of the team was soon quashed by referee Brown. Amazingly, the match official did allow the visitors to play in a dark blue strip which surely caused an obvious clash of colours with the famous two blues kit.

The match kicked off with rain falling under a leaden sky that promised an afternoon of prolonged precipitation.

Bishops were quick out of the blocks to put the Roofing defence under immediate pressure and they took the lead from a corner conceded within the opening minute. Chris Bell curled in the kick from the left and Andrew Johnson met it with a superb header that went in off the underside of the crossbar. A perfect start for the home side.

The Two Blues had the ball in the net again from another corner later in the half, but the match official had already blown for a push at the far post to abort the celebrations.

The home side put together some good moves, but were looking a little devoid of ideas upfront and for some reason decided to shoot from distance. A number of wayward efforts failed to trouble keeper Liversedge, but he palmed the ball over when Dan Hawkins had a dip from fully 30 yards.

The game changed just before the half hour when the visitors were awarded a penalty. Guerin-Lokonga saw an outstretched leg in the Bishops’ area and decided to tumble over it. Unsurprisingly, the referee pointed to the spot, and Robinson shot low to Peter Jeffries’ right as he was completely flat footed.

Up until then, the closest Jarrow had come to scoring was when Hughes curled a free kick comfortably past the near post.

Inconsistency of decision always infuriates players and supporters alike, and when the match official decided not to award Bishops a spot kick of their own when Johnson was clearly pushed inside the Jarrow penalty area, it was clear that the home side’s sense of injustice would continue.

But things were to get worse for the Bishops when a couple of minutes before half-time, Roofing took the lead when a loose ball found Guerin-Lokonga in the box and he passed inside for Hughes to prod the ball home.

Bishops were rocking, and they had Jeffries to thank for keeping the half-time deficit at just one when he saved from Hughes after the defence had gone to sleep and allowed three dark blue shirts against one two blues shirt at a corner.

HT: Bishop Auckland 1, Jarrow Roofing 2

Just three minutes after the restart the fire alarm was triggered and the match temporarily halted. When it became clear that the culprit was having a sly cigarette inside the away dressing room, the action continued.

Guerin-Lokonga seemed determined to continue his quest to perfect the art of falling over at the slightest touch, which gave himself many an opportunity to examine the Heritage Park playing surface up close and allowed supporters to speculate on his centre of gravity.

When Johnson was pulled down on the edge of the Jarrow box it was surprising to see the referee wave play on, but when the same player was pulled down about 30 yards from goal, the official blew for a free kick. Johnson’s goal bound effort was tipped over the bar by Liversedge, although he would fumble a header from the resultant corner before claiming the ball.

The decisive third visitors’ goal came thirteen minutes from time and effectively ended the contest. Bishops back three failed to hold a straight line (not for the first time) and as an offside shout was rightly ignored by the assistant, Guerin-Lokonga ran from the half-way line towards goal and shot low past Jeffries.

So, no home win in five games, and the visit of champions Spennymoor Town to look forward to in midweek.

Full Time Score:

Bishop Auckland 1 (Johnson, 1")

Jarrow Roofing BCA 3 (Robinson, 29" (p); Hughes, 43"; Guerin-Lokonga, 77")

— DE

BISHOP AUCKLAND 1, NEWTON AYCLIFFE 1

Northern League Division One

Monday, 29th August, 2011

Bishop Auckland 1, Newton Aycliffe 1

MATCH REPORT 

Peter Jeffries / Lewis Brown / Wayne Clarke / Karl Everitt / Phil Brumwell (capt) / Darren Richardson / Chris Bell / Chris Lawson / Dan Hawkins / Andy Johnson / Adam Strong

At last, another home fixture, with Division One newcomers Newton Aycliffe the welcome visitors to Heritage Park on Bank Holiday Monday. The Newtonians arrived unbeaten in their opening four league matches, and after Bishops’ opening day loss to Billingham Synthonia, the Two Blues had gone three league games without defeat.

Recent matches had taken their toll with plenty of missing faces, but Bishops welcomed back Peter Jeffries (after his broken finger in pre-season) and Chris Bell (who had returned from Whitley Bay having found the seaside air not to his liking). Lewis Brown made his first start since the opening day of the season and Karl Everitt was the fourth man to come into the starting eleven.

A bench that contained Steven Turnbull, Simon Bishop, assistant manager Steven West and manager Colin Myers seemed to offer the boss very few options.

Bishops were quick out of the blocks and could have taken the lead in only the third minute. Chris Bell raced down the right before finding Andy Johnson in space inside the Aycliffe penalty area. His shot was parried by keeper Spence straight to Dan Hawkins, but skipper Tarling was able to block the striker’s goalbound effort.

The visitors took the lead just three minutes later thanks to a delightful 25 yard chip by Broom. The move started on the left with Gray, who found Tarling inside the centre circle. His cross out to Broom enabled the wide man to score over Jeffries from the edge of the Auckland penalty area. It was the first time this season that Bishops’ have conceded a goal in the opening half hour of play.

The visitors then missed a series of chances to increase their lead. Ex-Bishop, Mellanby seemed to be orchestrating things upfront for the Newtonians and he passed through for Tarling to shoot, but Jeffries had good hands to save the low 30 yard shot.

When Mellanby beat Lewis Brown in the air, the ball found its way to Wood on the right. His cross to the back post was met by Gray, but Jeffries saved with his feet. It was the first of two such saves by the Auckland keeper, as he would also thwart goal scorer Broom just before half-time.

Bishops’ play seemed much more disjointed from that witnessed in their previous two matches, and they often struggled to create good goal scoring chances.

A long range 30 yard effort from Phil Brumwell flew about a foot over the crossbar was the closest they got to scoring until Johnson went down under a challenge by Campbell and referee Keogh pointed to the spot.

Most people seemed to think it was a fairly soft penalty award, but Johnson got himself up off the floor to take the spot kick, and he scored low to the keeper’s left, although Spence did well to get a hand on it. The Bishops’ forward now has seven goals to his name in just five league games.

It should be noted that Johnson did have the ball in the Newtonians net earlier in the first half, but the assistant had already raised his flag for what seemed a very tight offside. The forward has had four chalked out for offside in the last three games.

HT: Bishop Auckland 1, Newton Aycliffe 1

The second half was a somewhat disappointing affair, and although the visitors created many more opportunities to regain the lead, Jeffries had just one save to make when he came out and dived at the feet of Gray, as he threatened the Bishops’ goal.

Lewis Brown and Wayne Clarke looked comfortable enough at the back and the defence made a number of good clean challenges to preserve parity.

At the other end, Karl Everitt’s dipping volley went wide of the upright and when Adam Strong challenged the Aycliffe keeper, the match official came to Spence’s rescue after he had fumbled the ball towards a Two Blues shirt.

Speaking to the Northern Echo after the game, Bishops manager Colin Myers said: "I’m very happy with a point considering the injuries that we had. I thought a draw was a fair result, because it was a bit of a nothing game". Newton Aycliffe manager Alan Oliver said: "I thought we were the better team. We had three one-on-ones in the first half, and a great chance near the end".

All things considered, a useful point for the Bishops’ that takes the unbeaten league run to four games, and the Two Blues remain in eighth place in the league table. Can’t helping feeling that we lost a number of these close games last season, so perhaps things might be a little different this campaign.

Final Score:

Bishop Auckland 1 (Johnson, 44" (p))

Newton Aycliffe 1 (Broom, 6")

— DE

HERITAGE PARK OPEN ON SATURDAY

Heritage Park will be open on Saturday.  Doors open at 3pm for the club's Band Day with the bands likely to be starting between 6pm and 7pm.

The bar will be open and there's also a choice of real ales available to try at only £2.50 per pint.

There's still time to pick up a season ticket for 2011/12 season too.  We can sort that out for you on Saturday.  Just pop along and fill in an application form, or you can apply via the website and pay with Paypal.

NORTON & STOCKTON ANCIENTS 1, BISHOP AUCKLAND 3

Northern League Division One

Friday, 26th August, 2011

Norton & Stockton Ancient 1, Bishop Auckland 3

MATCH REPORT

 

Simon Bishop / Phil Brumwell / Wayne Clarke / Steven Walklate (Karl Everitt, 24 mins) / Steven Salvin (capt) / Darren Richardson / Adam Strong / Chris Lawson / Dan Hawkins / Andrew Johnson / Darren Atkinson (Steven Turnbull, 14 mins)

 

Friday night and the end of a four match road trip at the Norton Sports Complex to play Norton, who were unbeaten in their four league matches in this campaign.

The unwelcome news that Arran Wearmouth had again broken his collarbone meant that Colin Myers was forced to make one change to the side that demolished Tow Law on Tuesday night. Adam Strong coming into the side to replace the unfortunate winger.

The Norton pitch looked good as usual, but the heavy rain that fell made it quite slippery and players from both sides found it hard to keep their footing at times.

After scoring six in the previous outing, Bishops were soon on the hunt for more goals, and the sight of good attacking football with players combining well was a joy to behold. How long the supporters have been waiting for such an excellent display.

Just five minutes on the clock and Bishops took the lead. From a throw-in, well won on the right-wing, the ball was floated into the Norton penalty area for Dan Hawkins to flick on to Andrew Johnson. The prolific striker controlled the ball well, swivelled and shot into the net off the underside of the crossbar.

Bishops were largely untroubled at the other end for most of the first-half, with the defence looking well in control against the Norton forwards. In fact, the only problem for the Two Blues would come from the loss of two key players through injury.

First, Darren Atkinson pulled up chasing a ball down the left wing and the end of a promising attack was nothing compared to the sight of him being carried to the dressing room. He was replaced by Steven Turnbull on the quarter hour.

Within ten minutes, Steven Walklate was fouled and stayed down injured. The offender escaped with nothing more than the award of a free-kick, but the Bishop man’s night was over, and he was replaced by Karl Everitt.

Despite this, Bishops attacked looking for the all-important second goal, but somehow they just could not find the finish. Twice corners came in from the right that resulted in shots that were blocked on the goal line. On one occasion, Darren Richardson blocked Chris Lawson’s effort, although Richardson’s own follow-up shot was then blocked by a defender.

When Hawkins floated a superb pass over the head of the last defender, Johnson collected and crossed inside to Lawson, but his two efforts were both blocked as desperate defenders flung themselves in front of goal.

However, it was Hawkins who would miss the best chance to increase the lead. Bishops attacked and when the ball was passed from one wing to the other, Johnson found space in the box, and with keeper Provett drawn towards him, he passed square to Hawkins to simply tap the ball into the net. Perhaps he was trying a back heel trick or something, but all Hawkins managed to do was to stumble over his own feet and the chance was gone.

HT: Norton & Stockton Ancients 0, Bishop Auckland 1

Bishops had conceded a goal within fifteen minutes of the resumption in their three opening games of the season, but like Tuesday night at Tow Law, they would increase their lead this time.

Three minutes after the restart, Johnson found Strong inside and he made no mistake in scoring past Provett from an acute angle. Then, just before the hour, Johnson got his second of the night when he chased a long ball over the top, took it down, and controlled it well. As the Norton keeper came out, the Bishops striker did not panic, and calmly slotted the ball under Provett and into the middle of the net.

Hawkins almost atoned for his glaring miss earlier with a curling 30 yard shot that crashed off the crossbar and went behind, but as Bishops took their foot of the gas, the chances started to dry up, although they did get the ball in the net again, only for the assistant to flag for offside.

Norton came more into the game in the last twenty minutes and a pass from the right wing found Andrews at the far post to deny the ever dependable Simon Bishop a clean sheet. Although the home side had other chances to score, the Bishops keeper was able to deny the second goal that would have made the remaining minutes even more twitchy than they were.

When the final whistle came, the Bishops’ statisticians were at thankfully saved the trouble of discovering when a player last scored consecutive hat-tricks for the Two Blues, although, one suspects it’s been a very long time since one player scored five in two games. It has certainly been far too long since Bishop Auckland stood third in the league table, but even though it will, in all likelihood, be only overnight, the sight is pleasurable.

Full-Time Score:

Norton & Stockton Ancients 1 (Andrews, 69")

Bishop Auckland 3 (Johnson, 5" & 59"; Strong, 48")

— DE

TOW LAW TOWN 2, BISHOP AUCKLAND 6

 

Northern League Division One

Tow Law Town 2, Bishop Auckland 6

MATCH REPORT 

Team: Simon Bishop / Phil Brumwell / Wayne Clarke / Steven Walklate (Karl Everitt, 64 mins) / Stephen Salvin (capt) / Darren Richardson / Arran Wearmouth (Adam Strong, 77 mins) / Chris Lawson (Steven Turnbull, 87 mins) / Dan Hawkins / Andrew Johnson / Darren Atkinson

After the briefest of appearances in the FA Cup (you really can’t call one game a cup run, can you?), Bishops returned to league action at Ironworks Road to take on Tow Law Town, who like the Two Blues, were looking for their first win of the season.

Stephen Salvin was welcomed back into defence to replace the injured Adam McLane and the match kicked off under floodlights and in a light drizzle.

Bishops were quick out of the blocks and when last defender Snaith pulled down Andrew Johnson within the opening couple of minutes, the Tow Law man was lucky to concede just the free kick, although referee McCallum’s decision not to show a card seemed unduly lenient.

Johnson curled the resultant 30-yard free kick towards the top corner, but keeper Robinson palmed the ball behind. Darren Atkinson curled in the corner up the slope only to see the keeper punch the ball backwards on to his own crossbar before the defence cleared.

The Two Blues were rampant and after three Johnson shots were blocked by defenders throwing themselves all over the luscious pitch, and a Salvin shot flew past the upright, they took the lead in the 18th minute when Johnson crossed from the left wing for Darren Richardson to tap in from the six-yard line.

Bishops continued to swarm forward and extended their lead three minutes later. Johnson again crossed from the left wing for Dan Hawkins to clip over the keeper from six-yards out.

Virtually a spectator for most of the opening half-hour, Bishops keeper Simon Bishop was quick to see the danger and got down well to deny Nixon. His reflexes were nearly matched by the spectator six yards wide of the upright who ducked as the follow up effort flew comfortably past the upright.

Hawkins and Johnson looked lively up front and after a good series of inter-passing play, the ball once more found the Lawyers net, but the referee’s assistant raised his flag for offside. It was the first of two ’goals’ chalked off in as many minutes as Johnson then kneed in an Atkinson cross only for the linesman to again intervene.

After a series of crunching tackles on Arran Wearmouth, the match official finally found the courage to waft the yellow card, but after Robson fouled Johnson from behind and then pushed the Bishops’ forward, the Tow Law man was fortunate not to see red, and the supporters were wondering if the card was shown for the foul or the push.

Wearmouth was fouled as he maraudered down the right wing, but despite stumbling he managed to regain his footing before sending in a pinpoint cross for Johnson, but once again the crossbar rescued the home side.

But Johnson was not to be denied and after combining with his striking partner, he swivelled and turned before shooting into the roof of the net from eight yards out as the clock moved into first-half added time.

HT: Tow Law Town 0, Bishop Auckland 3

Half-time saw the Bishops officials retire into the clubhouse to sample the fabled Northern League hospitality. Tony Duffy eventually noticed the table in the far corner with a large tea pot, jug of milk and paper plate containing custard creams, and he showed his obvious talent as he poured out the tea into polystyrene cups. As we all know, you simply can’t beat a stale biscuit for the half-time refreshments!

After the break, Wearmouth was soon in the thick of the action and having earlier shot straight at Robinson, he was tripped up in the penalty area by the Lawyers keeper. The Bishop winger stumbled and tried to keep his feet and managed to get to the ball, but was unable to create a goal scoring chance. Anyway, no penalty.

Nonetheless, Bishops were four up just before the hour when Johnson again put in an excellent cross into the six-yard box. This time, no Two Blues players needed to get the vital touch as Hamilton, the Lawyers centre forward, expertly kneed the ball into the roof of his own net.

Seven minutes later, Bishops hopes of a clean sheet were dashed when Nixon scored with an effort that crashed in off the post.

But any hopes of an unlikely Lawyers comeback were soon destroyed when Johnson was played in on the left wing and he twisted and turned a couple of defenders before going across goal and shooting low inside the far post.

And the prolific forward soon completed his hat-trick when he sent the keeper the wrong way from the penalty spot after Hawkins was tripped in the box by the hapless Snaith.

Nixon scored another consolation as Bishops understandably took their foot off the pedal, but the result was never really in any doubt. Another good performance which secured the first win of the season, and that lifts Auckland up to eighth in the league table, but a slip downwards looks likely with more midweek matches still to come.

Full Time Score:

Tow Law Town 2 (Nixon 64" & 82")

Bishop Auckland 6 (Richardson 18"; Hawkins 21"; Johnson 45+1", 68"& 80" (pen); Hamilton (og) 57")

— DE

BAND DAY @ HERITAGE PARK - SATURDAY 3-11PM

Heritage Park will be hosting a "Band Day" on Saturday 27 August which will run from 3pm until 11pm.

Four local bands are already booked – The Last Fakers, The Heist, Blackkwater Fever and Men Without Ties, with more to come.

There will be three local real ales available on the day for just £2.50 per pint - the usual bar range and food will also be available. Admission is £3 which also gives you entry into the raffle – just pay on the door.

WHITLEY BAY 2, BISHOP AUCKLAND 1

FA Cup Extra Preliminary Round

Saturday, 20th August, 2011

Whitley Bay 2, Bishop Auckland 1

MATCH REPORT

Team: Simon Bishop / Phil Brumwell (capt) / Wayne Clarke / Steven Walklate / Adam McLane / Darren Richardson / Arran Wearmouth (Adam Strong, 69 mins) / Chris Lawson / Dan Hawkins / Andrew Johnson / Darren Atkinson (Steven Turnbull, 80 mins)

The toughest possible test for Bishops as they headed to Hillheads to take on the three time FA Vase holders in the FA Cup. Whitley came out on top last year after two well fought games.

Colin Myers made two changes from the team that gained their first league point in midweek. Dan Hawkins and Darren Richardson came into the starting eleven in place of Karl Everitt and Steven Turnbull who were relegated to the bench to join four other nominated substitutes.

Bishops looked very much up for the game and were quick to get at their hosts, denying the space and time on the ball, whilst looking dangerous themselves on the break.

The opening goal came in the 11th minute after a spell of good pressure by the visitors. A throw in on the left was crossed into the penalty area by Darren Atkinson, and Bay defender, Williams, under pressure got the touch that took the ball past young keeper Ball and into the net.

Whitley looked shell shocked and Bishops piled on the pressure looking for a second goal that would surely be decisive.

Ball fumbled a well struck shot from Hawkins but the ball rebounded out of Johnson’s reach. However, the keeper made amends shortly afterwards when he made a good save to deny Johnson’s 25 yard free kick that was heading into the top corner of the net.

Arran Wearmouth was treated to some rough stuff as he dribbled down the right wing and after a succession of fouls that could have been awarded with yellow cards, finally referee Campbell decided to take action an issue the caution. Although it seems that different rules must apply in the FA Cup to those guilty players who kick the ball away, a leniency that four Whitley players took advantage of.

On the odd occasions that the home side did threaten, Simon Bishop looked on as efforts went well past the post, but the Bishops keeper was equal to the task when called upon to save down low from an accurate Kerr shot.

Although Bishops had by far the better of the half and deserved to be ahead at the interval, Whitley missed a glorious chance to equalise two minutes into first-half stoppage time when a 20 yard Kerr free kick thumped off the inside of the post, rebounded into play, spinning across the goalmouth and amazingly going behind out of play past the other post.

HT: Whitley Bay 0, Bishop Auckland 1

Bishops deserved half-time lead was short lived as they conceded a goal minutes after the restart for the third game in succession, although not surprisingly there was an element of controversy.

Richardson was pushed to the ground in the centre circle and although it seemed likely that the referee might halt play, Whitley attacked and the ball was passed out to McFarlane on the right wing. The winger surged into the box and shot past Bishop to equalise. The Bishop player received treatment for some time as the home players and fans celebrated.

With the score at 1-1, Bishops had a number of corners in quick succession and one of these caused chaos in the Whitley defence. Ball shouted for it but the curling cross went behind him and as the keeper tried to grab the ball it bounced off the post and despite a number of prods at goal, the home defenders eventually cleared the danger.

This incident would prove crucial as a quick long ball out to the right was volleyed into the net by Kerr to give the home side the lead just after the half-hour.

As the Bishop fans behind the goal remarked that you always get one last chance to get something out of the game, on the field, two chances would fall to Johnson.

First he chased a long ball behind the defenders and waited for it to drop before firing in a good shot at goal only for Ball to make yet another good save. The young keeper received some friendly barracking as the match progressed, but he was by far the busiest of the two keepers pulling off some crucial saves.

Deep into injury time, Johnson robbed a Bay defender in the area and lifted his shot over the keeper but agonisingly his effort would not dip quickly enough and the ball floated over the crossbar, and Bishops were out.

All in all a great performance once again at the Bay, but it ended in a disappointing defeat. After having their post-match debrief on the field, the team were loudly applauded off the park as they in turn applauded the faithful fans.

Full Time Score:

Whitley Bay 2 (McFarlane 47", Kerr 63"), Bishop Auckland 1 (Williams (og) 11")

— DE

BILLINGHAM TOWN 1, BISHOP AUCKLAND 1

Northern League Division One

Tuesday, 16th August, 2011

Billingham Town 1, Bishop Auckland 1

MATCH REPORT

Team: Simon Bishop / Phil Brumwell (capt) / Wayne Clarke / Steven Walklate / Adam McLane / Karl Everitt / Chris Lawson / Steven Turnbull / Arran Wearmouth / Andrew Johnson / Darren Atkinson

The first away game of the season and a trip to Bedford Terrace to take on Billingham Town who, like Bishops, had lost their opening game of the season thanks to a last minute goal, Jarrow Roofing winning 5-4 at Town three days earlier.

Bishops made three changes to the team that had undeservedly lost at home to Billingham Synthonia. Wayne Clarke, Karl Everitt and Steven Turnbull came into the starting line up replacing Scott Bamborough and Lewis Brown, who were named on the bench, and Dan Hawkins was unavailable.

A quiet opening on a sunny but windy evening, and Bishops were thankful to new signing Adam McLane who again looked assured at the back and made an excellent tackle in the box to deny Owens.

Bishops looked threatening up front and after Arran Wearmouth was pushed to the ground by Billingham defender Cossavella, another new signing, Andrew Johnson, saw his free kick palmed away by keeper Briggs.

Johnson missed another chance to put the visitors ahead but he scuffed his shot when in a good position inside Billingham’s penalty area.

After Briggs was called into action yet again when he comfortably collected a header, Simon Bishop was called into action when he got down well to make the save to deny Dunwell and the defence cleared the ball to safety.

Bishops took the lead on the half-hour. Chris Lawson took a throw-in near the corner flag that was met on the byline by Steven Turnbull. His header bounced off the shoulder of a Town defender and somehow the ball looped over the goalkeeper and into the net off the inside of the far post.

Within a couple of minutes the visitors could have been two up but Steven Walklate’s curling shot from inside the penalty area hit the angle of post and crossbar and the rebound fell kindly to the home side allowing the defence to clear the danger.

Still Bishops searched for the relative comfort of a two goal lead, but although Johnson did well to fend off the attention of Cossavella, his swivel then shot on the turn flew past the upright.

In the final chance of the first-half, Briggs palmed away a right wing cross with Wearmouth looking to apply the finish at the far post.

HT: Billingham Town 0, Bishop Auckland 1

The scores were level five minutes after the restart when the Bishops defence failed to deal with a quick Billingham move. A left wing cross from Norman was met by the unmarked Owens at the far post, and Bishop had no chance of saving his close range well struck volley.

Bishops keeper Bishop kept the scores level minutes later when he bravely dived at the feet of substitute Martin to snuff out the danger.

The visitors surged forward and put together a period of sustained pressure but still could not find a way through. Crosses came in from both wings and were cleared but when Lawson crossed low into the box, Briggs was forced to make a save when a Town defender deflected the ball goalwards. The final chance came when Johnson swivelled and shot into the side netting from an acute angle.

The introduction of fresh legs gave fresh impetus to the home sides attacks but, fortunately for the Bishops, a number of chances went high and wide, and the odd scare that was on target was well saved by keeper Bishop.

Bishops attacks became less frequent as the leggy forwards struggled to make an impact, and when the clock moved into the fifth minute of second-half added time, the thoughts of the visiting supporters were looking back to Saturday’s game but Bishop saved to deny substitute Martin and shortly after referee Woodall blew the final whistle and both teams had won their first point of the season.

Speaking to the Northern Echo, Billingham Town’s manager Carl Jarrett said: "After Saturday I wanted to see the players’ reaction and they didn’t disappoint me. They all worked very hard, the only hard thing to take was the goal we conceded from a long throw". Bishops boss Colin Myers said: "We had three or four good chances in the first half, and only took one of them".

The draw keeps Bishops in 17th position in the league table. Who would have thought that after the first two games of the season, Bishops would be just one point and three places behind last season’s champions?

Full Time Score:

Billingham Town 1 (Owens, 50"), Bishop Auckland 1 (Turnbull, 30")

— DE

BISHOP AUCKLAND 2 BILLINGHAM SYNTHONIA 3

Northern League Division One

SATURDAY 13th AUGUST

Bishop Auckland 2, Billingham Synthonia 3

MATCH REPORT

Team: Simon Bishop / Phil Brumwell (c) / Chris Lawson / Steven Walklate / Adam McLane / Lewis Brown (Darren Richardson, 71 mins) / Arran Wearmouth / Scott Bamborough (Steven Turnbull, HT) / Dan Hawkins / Andrew Johnson / Darren Atkinson

Bishops kicked off their first full season at Heritage Park and with the departure of Chris Bell to Whitley Bay, and Ian Dixon and Wayne Gredziak to Shildon, injuries to Peter Jeffries and Dion Raitt, plus suspensions for Stephen Salvin and Wayne Clarke, debuts were given to Steven Walklate, Adam McLane, Scott Bamborough and Andrew Johnson. Simon Bishop returned between the sticks after a good decade away.

End to end entertainment in the opening minutes, and in the tenth, a good passing move down the left wing involving Chris Lawson, Dan Hawkins and Arran Wearmouth forced the corner from which the Bishops took the lead. Synners keeper Moody could only parry away Hawkins’ initial header, but Andrew Johnson was first to react to open his account and give the home side an early lead.

Still both sides attacked and at the other end, Simon Bishop got down low to deny a Hillerby strike and later on Lawson made a well timed tackle in the box as two visiting forwards looked to threaten.

Having scored eight goals in ten pre-season games and having already opened the scoring, it was surprising that Johnson could only shoot high, wide and into the car park beyond after he excellently brought down a cross into the box and cleverly created a sight of the Synners goal.

Billingham equalised seven minutes from the half-time interval when the Bishops defence allowed Earl to run for some considerable distance unchallenged down the left wing. Having reached the byline, he crossed into the box where Donaldson side-footed the ball in.

Both sides missed the chance to take a half-time lead. First, Brown collected a throw-in for the Bishops but his curling shot went about a yard past the upright and then after a Synners free kick was launched into the box a mistimed clearance allowed Hillerby to shoot, but his effort went comfortably over as Bishop looked on.

HT: Bishop Auckland 1, Billingham Synthonia 1

Bishops attacked straight from the restart and Johnson was unlucky to see his dipping shot drop wide of the far post and a later long range lob went over the keeper, but also over the bar as well.

It seemed that the Bishops had been encouraged to shoot on sight, but both Hawkins and Wearmouth’s 30 yard efforts were collected comfortably enough by keeper Moody, although the latter’s shot did initially bobble out of his hands.

The visitors took the lead with perhaps the goal of the game when a 25 yard curling shot from Edwards found the top right hand corner of Bishop’s net as the veteran keeper dived in vain.

Still end-to-end stuff but just when some of the peculiar decisions of the match official were causing frustration for home players and fans alike, Lawson brought Bishops a deserved equaliser with a looping header as the Synners defence stood still pleading for an offside flag that rightly never came.

From then on Bishops attacked looking for an opening day win for the first time since their 3-2 win in the Northern Premier League at a sunny Colwyn Bay eight years earlier, but the closest the Two Blues came to claiming all three points was when Hawkins volleyed straight at keeper Moody.

With five minutes already played of the minimum four minutes of second-half added time, Bishop pulled off a superb save tipping over from substitute Osmond, but from the resulting corner an effort crashed off the underside of the crossbar before Brumwell partially cleared only for Earl to bundle the ball over the line and steal all three points.

With the announcement of the winning goal in the 95th minute, and the final whistle belatedly coming immediately after Bishops kicked off, jeers commenced all around the ground at the match official, and at the sheer sense of injustice of it all.

An entertaining start to the new season but Bishops came away empty handed when a draw probably looked a fair result. A four match road trip begins in midweek at Billingham Town.

Full Time Score:

Bishop Auckland 2 (Johnson 10", Lawson 72")

Billingham Synthonia 3 (Donaldson 38", Edwards 53", Earl 90+5)

— DE

SEASON STARTS SATURDAY

Only three days to go to the start of the season.

There's still time to get your season ticket in time for the new season, or if you ask on Saturday at the ground I am sure we can sort you out with one on the day.

Admission is £5 for adults, £3 for Senior Citizens or Under 16s and Free for Under 5s.

Programmes are still £1, Raffle Tickets £1 and Golden Goals are 50p.  The club shop will, of course, be open.

Would be great to kick the season off with a good attendance so please get yourselves along and tell your friends.  Spread the word. 

The stadium and bar will be open at 1.30pm.

CONCLUSION OF PRE-SEASON FIXTURES

BISHOP AUCKLAND 5, BRANDON BRITISH LEGION 0

A comfortable victory against the Durham Alliance side with goals coming from Chris Lawson, Darren Atkinson, Darren Richardson, Steven Turnbull and Arran Wearmouth who completed the scoring after beating a series of defenders before striking home.

BISHOP AUCKLAND 2, BRADFORD PARK AVENUE 6

Bishops completed pre-season with a nightmare afternoon against the Evo-Stick premier side whose last visit to play Bishops was the final match at Kingsway.

Preparations hadn't gone to plan with no available senior 'keeper so Bishop Auckland St.Mary's junior Cleminson was thrown the gloves.  Dismal weather began just after 1pm and the time leading up to kick off saw torrential rain and thunder and lightening making the pitch extremely wet before the match started.  The rain continued unabated throughout the 90 minutes leaving the pitch in an increasingly waterlogged state as play continued.

Bishops goals came in the second half when at 0-4 Johnson fired home a rebound after a shot was spilled by the visiting 'keeper.  Johnson set up Wearmouth to score at 1-5 and also hit the post in a strong second half for the striker.

LATEST PRE-SEASON RESULTS

BRIDLINGTON TOWN 1, BISHOP AUCKLAND 2

Behind again on the road at Bridlington Town but Bishops battled back to win with goals from Andrew Johnson and Stephen Salvin.

BISHOP AUCKLAND 3, DARLINGTON 3

First home game of the season against a youthful Darlington X1 and the second match of the weekend.  Again Bishops conceded first before Andrew Johnson brought the sides leve.

Darlington added two more goals before Bishops hit back through Johnson again and Wayne Gredziak.

HORDEN CW 0, BISHOP AUCKLAND 0

No goals, but Bishops first clean sheet of pre-season in this third match in four days.

LANCASTER CITY 3 BISHOP AUCKLAND 1

LANCASTER CITY 3 BISHOP AUCKLAND 1

MATCH REPORT

SATURDAY 16th JULY

Starting Team: Ian Myers, Cooper, Darren Richardson, Wayne Clarke, Chris Lawson, Lewis Brown, Adam Strong, Daniel O'Donnell, Arran Wearmouth, Wayne Gredziak, Dan Hawkins

Bishops travelled to Lancaster without the injured Peter Jeffries and also Stephen Salvin, Dion Raitt, Kark Everitt, Andrew Johnson, Steven Turnbull, Phil Brumwell and Darren Atkinson leaving the bench of manager, assistant manager, goalkeeping coach and kitman.

The worst possible start as City were awarded a penalty in the opening couple of minutes which Dodgson converted for 1-0.

Bishops had a decent shout for a penalty as an outstretched arm blocked a shot on 15 minutes but the appeal was waved away.

Things went from bad to worse as Dodgson capitalised on hesitancy in the Bishops defence and chipped home to double the lead on 19 minutes.

Worse to come four minutes later as Clark added a third, and Bishops were under real threat of collapse.

However, the visitors got back into the game and were unlucky not to pull a goal back before the interval first when Hawkins blasted a shot from eight yards which was well saved then the striker met a deep cross and knocked the ball across goal but Gredziak was not quite able to stretch and tap into the open net.

HT Lancaster City 3 Bishop Auckland 0

Bishops came out strongly in the second half and were edging the action as City threw on a series of substitutes. 

After Gredziak was hauled down on the edge of the area, Darren Richardson fired in a free kick which crashed off the underside of the bar down onto the goalline before being cleared.

Midway through the half and Bishops pulled a goal back.  Adam Strong beat his man before being dumped to the floor.  Dan Hawkins sent the keeper the wrong way to make it 3-1.

Bishops put the home side under pressure from then on with Arran Wearmouth creating real problems down the left wing.  The youngster had City's No.2 in his pocket and beat him at will, putting in a series of dangerous crosses which couldn't be converted.

At the other end, Ian Myers was competently dealing with any crosses and shots that came his way.

FT Lancaster City 3 Bishop Auckland 1

A disappointing start to the game but Bishops came more into it after 30 minutes and deservedly won the second half despite the weakness of the squad on the day. 

DURHAM CITY 4 BISHOP AUCKLAND 0

DURHAM CITY 4  BISHOP AUCKLAND 0

MATCH REPORT

TUESDAY 12th JULY

Team: Anthony Sowerby (Ian Myers HT), Wayne Clarke, Phil Brumwell (Chris Lawson HT), Darren Richardson, Stephen Salvin, Adam Strong, Dion Raitt, Andrew Johnson (Wayne Gredziak HT), Dan Hawkins (Vigan Qehaja HT), Darren Atkinson, Karl Everitt (Daniel O'Donnell HT)

Disappointing news that Peter Jeffries had suffered a broken finger on Saturday so two new 'keepers were given a half each to impress. 

Bishops opened well and were unlucky to see a low shot bounce off the post.  The attack progressed and Dan Hawkins hooked the ball over his shoulder only to see it bounce off the bar this time.

Durham took the lead five minutes in when Amar Purewal slotted the ball home to the general disbelief of Bishops many supporters.

Bishops more than matched their Evo-Stick hosts and should have been level when a low cross found Richardson eight yards from goal but his shot was straight at the 'keeper.

HT Durham City 1 Bishop Auckland 0

Colin Myers threw on all the substitutes at half time with Gredziak and Qehaja replacing Johnson and Hawkins up front.  Ian Myers took over between the sticks with Lawson and O'Donnell also being brought into the game.

Bishops continued to play well and it took an excellent save from a Qehaja header to keep the home team ahead just after the hour.  However, Durham managed to double the lead with a shot that flew through a crowded area and into the bottom corner.

The game-ending goal came on 78 minutes.  Dion Raitt fired in a free kick which was clearly saved by an outstretched arm from the wall.  The penalty appeal was ignored and Durham broke quickly with Myers beaten by a long range lob.

A couple of minutes later and Amar Purewal scored again to give the score a flattering feel.

Bishops continued to play some good football, but were unable to find the net in the closing minutes.

FT Durham City 4 Bishop Auckland 0

FULL FIXTURES ON WEBSITE

A full list of fixtures is now on the website under the Fixtures section.

There's a fixture list pdf at the top of the fixture page to allow you to print off a trifold fixture list - ideally you should do this double sided.

There's also a fixture poster with the first four matches on there.  If you have anywhere to display this then please print off and put it up.  If you'd like to receive regular fixture posters then contact the club via the contacts page and I will add you to the mailing list.

 

 

 

FA COMPETITION DRAWS

FA Cup

Extra Preliminary Round vs Whitley Bay (Away)

Preliminary Round vs Tow Law Town / Marske United (Home)

1st Qualifying Round vs Kendal Town (Away)

FA Vase

1st Qualifying Round vs Chester le Street Town (Away)

2nd Qualifying Round vs Sunderland RCA (Away)

1st Round vs North Shields or Northallerton Town or Bedlington Terriers or Stokesley

EDINBURGH CITY 3 BISHOP AUCKLAND 5

EDINBURGH CITY 3 BISHOP AUCKLAND 5

MATCH REPORT

SATURDAY 9th JULY

Team: Peter Jeffries, Karl Everitt (HT Daniel O'Donnell), Phil Brumwell (HT Wayne Clarke), Darren Richardson (HT Adam Strong), Stephen Salvin, Dion Raitt, Andrew Johnson, Dan Hawkins, Darren Atkinson, Steven Turnbull (Steven West 80mins), Chris Lawson

The match took place at Meggetland Sports Complex and was fortunately scheduled for the artificial surface.  After a warm morning, there was thunder rumbling around Edinburgh after lunch and the heavy rain started more or less simultaneously with the whistle to start the game.

Bishops were straight into the game and Dan Hawkins intercepted the ball just outside the 18 yard box and rounded the 'keeper to slot home.

Two minutes later and the visitors doubled the lead when Bishops were awarded a free kick just outside the box and Dion Raitt struck the shot waist high to the right of the wall and just inside the post. 2-0.

The rain eased and City pulled a goal back when a cross deep into the area was headed home on 11 minutes.

The rain then came thrashing down again and a Bishops corner was dummied by Raitt and the ball fell to Turnbull who smashed it home from six yards.

On 18 minutes Jeffries collided with Lawson as both went for a ball ten yards from goal and Andy Howat tapped the ball home.  3-2 in less than 20 minutes.

Five minutes from the interval and an excellent move from Bishops front line saw Hawkins set up Johnson to 'score' at the far post but the effort was disallowed.  A couple of minutes later and Everitt was dispossessed and Ian McFarland finished with a good chip over Jeffries.

Bishops 'keeper Jeffries did well to keep out another chance just before the interval and ended up picking up a knock to the hand when saving down near the post.

Andy Johnson gave Bishops the lead again with the final kick of the first half, outpacing the defence and firing past the 'keeper.

HT Edinburgh City 3 Bishop Auckland 4

Three substitutions at half time but no change to the weather, other than the rain actually got heavier.  Many of the supporters retreated to the covered stand on the adjacent pitch.  Those that remained ended up extremely damp.

The rain belted down and thunder echoed round the ground as both teams settled into the second half.

The match played out very differently in the second half and Bishops dominated the ground leaving Jeffries with very little to do.

Andrew Johnson was fouled on the very corner of the 18 yard box on 68 minutes and fired home the penalty to make it 5-3.

Steven West replaced the tough tackling Turnbull with ten minutes to go as the weather continued to deteriorate.

With just a couple of minutes to go the sky was lit up as a huge fork of lightening sped to earth just over the houses behind the goal, and the referee took this a the cue to end the afternoon's entertainment.

FT Edinburgh City 3 Bishop Auckland 5

A big turnaround after last season's heavy defeat to the same opposition.  Bishops looked strong up front but demonstrated some defensive issues which will need to be worked on.

After the game the teams headed to Edinburgh City's club in the capital.  The rain continued to pour down and the Bishops team and a decent sized bunch of supporters enjoyed the hospitality after an entertaining afternoon.  Only Bishops Secretary Tony Duffy had his enthusiasm dampened as water seeped through the ceiling of the Edinburgh property directly onto the unlucky official.

PLAYER REGISTRATIONS - 2011/12

After a difficult couple of weeks during which the Northern League cancelled virtually every players’ registrations at the request of the FA, we can confirm that the following players have been signed on for 2011/12:

  • Darren Atkinson
  • Lewis Brown
  • Phil Brumwell
  • Wayne Clarke
  • Karl Everitt
  • Ryan Graham
  • Wayne Gredziak
  • Daniel Hawkins
  • Peter Jeffries
  • Andrew Johnson
  • Chris Lawson
  • Adam McLane
  • Dion Raitt
  • Darren Richardson
  • Stephen Salvin
  • Adam Strong
  • Steven Turnbull
  • Steven Walklate
  • Arran Wearmouth

Of these, Wayne Clarke, Daniel Hawkins, Peter Jeffries, Andrew Johnson, Darren Richardson and Steven Turnbull have been placed on contract.

QUIZ NIGHT - THURSDAY 30th

Bishop's monthly quiz night is tomorrow (Thursday) night.  Doors open at 7pm.

Additional entertainment comes courtesy of the BAFC DVD archive with a showing of the 2001 documentary "Three Tonys, Two Blues, One Goal" which will be screened around 7.30pm.

The quiz should start around 8pm.

Everyone welcome.  It's a fiver to enter the quiz which includes hot food.  Cash prizes.

CARVERY - SUMMER BREAK

There will be no Sunday Carvery at Heritage Park in July or August.

Back in early September.

PRE-SEASON FIXTURE CHANGE

Bishop Auckland will now be away at Durham City on 12th July.   Not at Brandon as previously advertised.

NEW SIGNINGS FOR 2011/12

Bishop Auckland have registered three more players for 2011/12 season.

Andrew Johnson - young striker previously with Tow Law Town and Shildon.  15 goals last season.

Steven Walklate - central midfielder previously with Darlington, Bedlington Terriers, Sunderland Nissan and Shildon.

Adam McLane - previously with Whickham FC

NORTHERN LEAGUE AGM & FIXTURES

League Fixtures were released today although not as planned at the league AGM, held at Heritage Park, after the fixture lists were left in an un-named official's house rather than being brought to the meeting.

Fixtures were issued by e-mail later in the day.

Fixtures

Also of note at the AGM:

League Cup draw gave Bishops a bye in Round 1 and an away game at Sunderland RCA in Round 2.

The payment of transfer fees for non-contract players is now illegal.  Players will be free to move with the use of the seven days notice rule.

A plan to scrap extra time and move straight to penalties for league cup ties was rejected.

PRE SEASON FIXTURES

Pre Season Fixtures confirmed so far.

 Edinburgh City

 Away  Saturday 9th July  3.00pm  
 Brandon United  Away  Tuesday 12th July  8.00pm  at Maiden Castle, Durham
 Lancaster City  Away  Saturday 16th July  3.00pm  
 Shildon BR  Away  Wednesday 20th July  7.30pm
 Bridlington Town  Away  Saturday 23rd July  3.00pm  
 Darlington  Home  Sunday 24th July  1.00pm  
 Horden CW  Away  Tuesday 26th July  7.30pm  
 Ossett Albion  Away  Saturday 30th July  3.00pm
 Bradford Park Avenue  Home  Saturday 6th August  3.00pm  

NEVER AGAIN - BOB HARDISTY BIOGRAPHY NOW £12

The BAFC Club Shop now has copies of the Bob Hardisty Biography, written by Alan Adamthwaite, for a reduced price of £12. Hardback.

There's still lots of stock available from the shop including programmes for several of this season's home games, badges and clothing.

In addition, replica home shirts for 2011/12 are on sale in L, M and some childrens sizes.

MANAGER Q & A PLUS MONTHLY QUIZ

BAFC manager Colin Myers will be holding a Question and Answer Session at Heritage Park on Thursday 26th May. Doors and bar open at 7pm. All supporters are welcome to attend.

Then on the evening there will be the monthly BAFC Quiz Night.  Quiz starts at 8pm, with the bar open from 7pm.  Cash prizes. The £5 entry fee includes hot food.  Everyone welcome.

RECORD TURNOUT FOR ANNUAL WALK

A bright and breezy morning for BAFC's sixth annual trek.  A more accessible 11 mile route this year, with Bishops finally able to start and finish at their own ground, Heritage Park.

A record 45 took part in the walk plus a couple of dogs. Three directors - one at well under 100% fitness levels after some recent surgery - various other club officials, supporters plus a strong representation from Bishop Auckland St.Mary's joined new and old friends for the event. 

 The action started early with the walkers assembling for a pre-walk photo and attracted attention from Stadium Way with a most unexpected show of support from one passing car which raised the spirits of a few.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Departure came after Gavin finally turned up, with the chain of walkers crossing Stadium Way and heading in the direction of Shildon.  Over the Gaunless and over the stile and onto Roman road Dere Street up towards Brusselton.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

First brief stop at Brusselton to take on water before heading on along the old Stockton to Darlington Railway Line - the Heritage Line - and towards Shildon.

Out of the beautiful countryside, and under a filthy subway and into the industrial estate which for decades housed Shildon Wagon Works. 

Three miles in and three of the St.Mary's team represented on the day - James, Tony and Matthew - dropped out.  More training for these lads I think Rob !  A lack of stamina from some of the youngsters was a big lift to some of the older walkers.

Into Locomotion with the train of walkers stretching out along the track as the steam train puffed away getting ready for a day of exertion.

Once past a Shildon Station full of customers eager to get to the bright lights of Bishop Auckland, the route headed out into open countryside as the temperatures started to lift.  However, once over the railway tracks the breeze picked up as we headed up and over a series of undulations before dropping into the village of Redworth.

The event brought a small buzz to Redworth as the village, population 190, suddenly found its numbers increased by 25%.  A quick roll call to ensure everyone was still standing, and a break for coffee, biscuits and packed lunches.  The route headed along a very quiet road towards Royal Oak.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Only two cars passed along the road - those driven by the support drivers Rik and Pamela - before we headed back over the fields for a short cut to Royal Oak.

Once there, a quick catch up with one or two lost souls on the phone to ensure that everyone still knew where they were heading.

A nervous time along the short stretch of road to the masts at Brusselton with one idiot driver thinking it appropriate to drive through two columns of walkers at ridiculous speed but fortunately the walkers were alive to the danger.

More re-inforcements as Dennis joined the walk at Brusselton as we headed down into the woods.  A real highlight of the walk with striking trees and a carpet of bluebells and the sun glinting through the occasional gap in the foliage.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Once out of the woods the route bent back towards Heritage Park which could be viewed for the remainder of the trek, which ensured that everyone kept focus on the task ahead.

A leisurely amble back to the ground with finishing times between 12.35 and 1.30pm and the comfort of the first floor at Heritage Park with food, drinks and comfortable seating the highlight as everyone prepared for the FA Cup Final.

The 45 walkers who recorded a combined 416 miles, excluding detours !, were Rob Bowron, Daniel Brabban, Anne Burek, Phil Burek, Peter Burns, Jack Campbell, Paul Campbell, Ben Carney, Jonathan Carney, Rob Carney, Nathan Carr, Dennis Cowey, John Cowey, Joseph Cowey, Steve Dolan, Matthew Ellison, David Gill, Gavin Hadden, Danny Hardy, Tony Hindmarch, Keegan Hogg, Michelle Hogg, Toni-Louise Hogg, Matthew Hunt, Terry Jackson, Max Litt, James Lupton, Andy McCallum, Alex McCormick, Peter McCormick, Craig Moore, Nathan Peart, Kevin Russell, Wayne Simpson, Colin Stockwell, Chris Storey, Matthew Storey, David Strong, Jack Taylor, Ryan Thompson, Brian Watson, Malcolm Watson, Marie Watson, Dan Winterburn.  Support team: Rik Burek, Pamela Cowey.

Sponsorship this year will be going to Bishop Auckland FC, Heritage Project, Bishop Auckland St.Mary's Juniors, Bishop FM, Butterwick Hospice, Help for Heroes, Royal Signals Association, Heel & Toe, Wrekenton Methodist Church, MS Charities and others to be confirmed.

BAFC Trek - Take Part or Sponsor Me !

There are just six days to go before Bishop Auckland FC's annual Trek.

This year' we're doing an 11 mile circular route from Heritage Park taking in Brusselton, Shildon, Redworth, Royal Oak and back through Brusselton wood and back home.

8.30am start to the walk.  Get in touch if you want to take part.  There's still time.

The ground will be open in the afternoon for the FA Cup Final.  More details to follow.

If you'd like to sponsor me and raise funds for Bishop Auckland FC, you can Donate here.  I would be most grateful.

 

PITCH RENOVATION BEGINS

Pitch maintenance and renovation begins at Heritage Park on 4th May with two days of Koroing off the top 15-20mm of turf to remove the capped layer from the pitch surface.  Old turf and surface irregularities to be removed and all primary and secondary drainage to be opened up.

That will be followed by "Earthquaking" decompaction to a depth of 250mm.  The week will continue with sand spreading and box grading of the surface to achieve the desired levels and create a new seed bed.

Next week continues with cultivations, fertiliser and seeding.with an ongoing programme of irrigation and cutting until the pitch is handed back over for use in late July.

RETAINED LIST FOR 2011/12

The list of players who have re-signed for Bishop Auckland FC is:

Darren Atkinson, Chris Bell, Lewis Brown, Phil Brumwell, Wayne Clarke, Ian Dixon, Karl Everitt, Ryan Graham, Joe Grant, Wayne Gredziak, Dan Hawkins, Peter Jeffries, Chris Lawson, Colin Myers, Vigan Qehaja, Dion Raitt, Darren Richardson, Stephen Salvin, Adam Strong, Steven Turnbull, Arran Wearmouth, Steven West.

2011/12 SEASON TICKETS NOW ON SALE

Season Tickets for 2011/12 are now on sale with the headline price unchanged at £75.

Matchday admission prices for 2011/12 will be £5 adults, £3 Conessions.

Adult Season Tickets are £75, Concession Adults £45 for the 21 league games.

Tickets for Under 16s are available for just £20 - less than a pound a game - and tickets for an adult plus one Under 16 are £85.

Buy your ticket via the Webshop either using Paypal, or by post using the pdf Order Form on that page.

PETER JEFFRIES DOMINATES END OF SEASON AWARDS

Peter Jeffries swept the board at Bishops end of season players presentations last night.  Jeffries picked up the Players' Player of the Year, Supporters' Player of the Year, Club/Committee Player of the Year and the Website Player of the Year awards.

Pictured:

Players' Player of the Year - Winner Peter Jeffries, presented by Team Manager Colin Myers

Supporters' Player of the Year - Winner Peter Jeffries, presented by supporter Dave Illingworth

Directors / Committee Player of the Year - Winner Peter Jeffries, presented by Club Secretary Tony Duffy

Website Player of the Year - Winner Peter Jeffries, presented by Programme Editor David Ellison

Long Service Awards - Stephen Salvin (200 Appearances), Peter Jeffries (100 Appearances), Darren Richardson (100 Appearances) presented by Chairman Terry Jackson

Young Player of the Year - Winner Steven Turnbull, presented by David Strong

Pictures (c) FILMAR Photography

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

BISHOP AUCKLAND 2, WEST ALLOTMENT CELTIC 2

Northern League Division One

Saturday, 30th April, 2011

Bishop Auckland 2, West Allotment Celtic 2

MATCH REPORT

Bishops: Peter Jeffries / Chris Lawson / Ian Dixon / Phil Brumwell / Karl Everitt (Lewis Brown, 59 mins) / Dion Raitt (Steven Turnbull, 82 mins) / Chris Bell / Stephen Salvin (capt) / Dan Hawkins (Steven West, 76 mins) / Wayne Gredziak / Vigan Qehaja

Bishops started the season with a disappointing "home" game defeat at Darlington Road and completed their campaign with a surprising draw against already relegated West Allotment Celtic at Heritage Park.

Colin Myers made three changes from the team that drew 2-2 at Penrith the previous Saturday with Darren Atkinson, Wayne Clarke and Steven Turnbull making way for Ian Dixon, Dan Hawkins and Chris Lawson.

Before the game kicked off, the crowd numbering 220 observed an impeccable one minute’s silence in memory of the late Ray Oliver, who played centre forward in the glorious Bishop side of the 1950’s and later.

The visitors kicked off towards the West Terrace with the wind at their backs, but it was the home side who created the best chances as the half wore on.

West’s Bannon was the first keeper in action when he saved a Dion Raitt free-kick from outside the box and the goalie was on hand to thwart Wayne Gredziak, whose shot at goal lacked real power after he had done well to hold off defender Hall.

Peter Jeffries, ever present in goal this season, made a comfortable save from Fremlin’s shot after a rare defensive error from Ian Dixon put the Allotment winger clean through.

But the chances were coming thick and fast at the other end as Bishops piled on ever more pressure. A great move down the right wing involving Chris Bell and Dan Hawkins gave Vigan Qehaja a chance to shoot at goal but a defender blocked the shot and the ball rebounded harmlessly into Bannon’s hands.

Gredziak was proving a handful for the visiting defence in general and Hall in particular. After being pulled down, having his legs clipped from behind, and pulled back, referee Stalker finally brandished a yellow card at the hapless defender.

Gredziak had another effort saved, then Hawkins and Raitt swapped passes before the forward’s shot flew harmlessly wide of the post. Gredziak passed inside to Hawkins who found Bell in space, but the shot from an acute angle was well saved.

There was a scare in the Bishops box when Novak benefited from an unpunished handball to pass inside to Hamilton who shot powerfully at goal. A loud shout for handball against the Two Blues was waved away.

The Two Blues finally took the lead their creativity and possession deserved when captain Stephen Salvin scored with a superb strike in first half injury time.

HT: Bishop Auckland 1, West Allotment Celtic 0

Bishops continued to attack after the interval and squandered six good chances to increase their lead before the hour.

Raitt, Salvin and Gredziak (twice) all shot over the bar and when the Two Blues managed to get their efforts on target, Lawson’s was deflected wide off a defender and Bannon was again on hand to deny Bell.

The match official threw Celtic an underserved lifeline when he harshly penalised Jeffries as he first fumbled and then collected a high ball as Minto crumbled into a heap below him. Latimer sent the Bishops keeper the wrong way from the penalty spot.

Bishops then created three good chances to regain the lead in as many minutes, but Gredziak’s header hit the bar, Qehaja’s shot was cleared off the line by a defender, and Hawkins’ header was saved.

But the second goal came soon after when the referee played a good advantage and Gredziak’s 25 yard shot went into the corner of the net.

Steven West came on with quarter of an hour to go, and his appearance meant that he joined Stephen Salvin as the only Two Blues players to play home games for the club at Kingsway, Dean Street, Brewery Field, Darlington Road and Heritage Park.

The home side continued to pile on pressure on the visiting defence but a combination of the woodwork, keeper Bannon, defensive blocks and wayward finishing kept the score close, but Bishops were caught with the sucker punch when, from a corner in the second minute of added time, Latimer slipped in to give the visitors an undeserved share of the spoils.

A draw was not good enough to lift Bishops into 13th place and equal last season’s finish, and so the Two Blues had to settle for 14th. A top half finish next year is surely a must?

-- DE

RAY OLIVER

The flags were at half mast, and there was a minutes silence at Saturday's final match of the season to mourn the death of Bishop Auckland FC legend Ray Oliver.

Ray was a key member of the Bishop Auckland sides of the 1950s scoring many crucial goals in the Amateur Cup runs of that time.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Our thoughts are with Ray's family and friends at this time.

Ray Oliver's funeral arrangements. Monday 9th May 10:15, Saint George's Parish Church, Beverley Gardens, Cullercoats, NORTH SHIELDS, NE30 4PQ and burial at Whitley Bay 11:15am.

COMMENTATOR REQUIRED

A blind football supporter will be visiting Heritage Park on Saturday and has asked for help in interpreting the game.

If you'd be happy to offer your services and give him a running commentary of the action, then that would be great.

Please get in touch if you can help.

QUIZ NIGHT - THURSDAY 28TH

It's quiz night again at Heritage Park on Thursday night.

Doors open at 7pm for the quiz starting at 8pm.

Everyone welcome - £5 entry, which included hot food.  Cash prizes.

SPONSORED WALK & FA CUP FINAL - 14th MAY

Bishop Auckland FC's annual sponsored walk will take place on the morning of Saturday 14th May.  An 8.30am start from Heritage Park.

Looking for volunteers to take part in the walk and raise some sponsorship either for Bishop Auckland FC or for their own chosen charity, or of course a combination of the two.

The route's an 11 mile circular route from Heritage Park taking in Dean Street (Shildon AFC), Locomotion, Redworth, Royal Oak, Brusselton and back to Heritage Park.

Just £5 to take part to cover admin and planning costs. 

Contact me for more details and a sponsorship form.

Walkers should be arriving back around 12.30pm to 1.30pm, with the FA Cup Final between Stoke City and Manchester City from 3pm on the big screen at Heritage Park.

Even if you can't take part in the walk, it would be great if you could join us at the ground in the afternoon.  The bar will be open, there'll be food on sale, the club shop will be open and there'll also be a sale of books, magazines and football programmes.

BISHOP AUCKLAND - AWAY DAY MOVIES

Videos now on YouTube for recent visits to Consett and Penrith.

 

Consett          http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qXG4GgnUcck

Penrith          http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xfxtaJpwV0Q

PENRITH 2, BISHOP AUCKLAND 2

Northern League Division One

Saturday 23rd April, 2011

MATCH REPORT

Team: Peter Jeffries / Stephen Salvin / Wayne Clarke / Phil Brumwell / Karl Everitt (Dan Hawkins 62mins) / Steven Turnbull (Daniel O'Donnell 69mins) / Chris Bell / Dion Raitt / Vigan Qehaja / Wayne Gredziak / Darren Atkinson

Bishops final away game of the season and the short hop over the country to Penrith.  The hot weather faded into a cool early afternoon as the teams took to the field for an early 2pm kick off.

The early breakthrough nearly came when Atkinson pinged in a dangerous cross which was met firmly by a defender who headed back across goal and the home 'keeper did well to tip it onto the top of the bar.

Atkinson was again in the action on 15 minutes when a deep cross found the midfielder but his low shot was saved with the feet.

Bishops definitely should have taken the lead when Gredziak turned his man and charged into the box only to be clipped from behind.  Raitt took the penalty but his shot to the 'keeper's left was pushed round the post.

Peter Jeffries was called into action on 32 minutes when Bishops defence was short handed and it was necessary for the 'keeper to dive to his left to keep Bishops level.

Penrith's 'keeper made another good save with his feet when Turnbull twisted from a corner, but again saw his shot blocked.

HT Penrith 0, Bishop Auckland 0

Penrith started the second half with a chance when Turnbull managed to deflect a long range shot just past the near post.

Bishops took the lead on 56 minutes.  A left wing corner was fired into a group of players and the 'keeper spilled it allowing Raitt a shooting opportunity.  Whilst the initial shot was saved, Qehaja slotted home from the rebound.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Raitt was again involved in a good attacking move when he stooped to head Bell's corner which drew a flying save with the ball just going round the left hand post.

Penrith equalised on 78 minutes.  Bell lost the ball just over the half way line with Bishops on the attack and Penrith broke quickly with Bishops out of position.  Brumwell half blocked the first shot but a follow up found Wilson in space to fire home.

A huge long ball move nearly gave Bishops the lead back when Jeffries launched the ball which found Gredziak who just beat the 'keeper at first bounce, but the glance went just inches wide.

Qehaja scored a beauty on 82 minutes to put Bishops back ahead.  A clipped pass from Bell was expertly controlled before the striker turned his man and blasted home.

Penrith threw everything forward after that and Jeffries was more in the action, making a decent save on 83 minutes.  A couple of minutes later and a curling shot went just wide of the upright.

Bishops looked like holding onto the points when Raitt mistimed a tackle on the edge of the box and Wilson curled the shot round the wall and into the top corner of the net.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

FT Penrith 2, Bishop Auckland 2

BISHOP AUCKLAND 0 SPENNYMOOR TOWN 2

Northern League Division One

Tuesday, 19th April, 2011

Bishop Auckland 0, Spennymoor Town 2

MATCH REPORT

Bishops: Peter Jeffries / Wayne Clarke (Vigan Qehaja, 60 mins) / Philip Shead / Phil Brumwell / Stephen Salvin (capt) / Karl Everitt / Chris Bell / Dion Raitt (Lewis Brown, 73 mins) / Wayne Gredziak / Darren Richardson / Darren Atkinson (Dan Hawkins, 60 mins)

The fourth home game in eight days saw Bishops’ manager Colin Myers make three changes to the starting line-up to face champions-elect Spennymoor Town in the penultimate game of the season at Heritage Park. Karl Everitt, Philip Shead and Dion Rait came into the starting eleven in place of Lewis Brown, Dan Hawkins and Daniel O’Donnell.

In contrast, the visitors were able to name an unchanged side for the second game in succession, and a win against their old foes would be a large step towards them retaining the Northern League title.

Referee Turner expressed serious concern about the state of the pitch and despite it being watered there was real doubt at kick off whether this match would finish despite the fine spring evening.

After the lost battle with West Auckland Town and the comfortable win against Billingham Town, this particular derby got off to a fairly quiet start with little to test either goalkeeper in the opening twenty-five minutes.

Moors offered a cross-shot that went about a yard wide of Peter Jeffries right-hand upright and the Bishops keeper pulled off a good save to deny Richardson even whilst the visiting forward was prematurely celebrating ‘scoring’ the opening goal.

The visitors did get the ball into the net when Ryan headed in a cross from an offside position, but the assistant had his flag up well before the visiting captain ‘scored’, and the celebrations again quickly subsided.

But Spennymoor finally took the lead in the 28th minute from a right-wing corner. Ruddy’s kick was met with a powerful header from Ryan, and as the away side and supporters appealed for handball, Laws lashed the ball into the roof of the net to give them the lead.

Eight minutes later, and Moors doubled their lead, again scoring from a corner. So often the hero for the Two Blues, and frequently deserving being nominated as man-of-the-match, the Bishops keeper somehow managed to fumble the ball into his own net as Ruddy crossed into the six-yard box.

In an effort to spare Jeffries’ blushes, Ray Simpson and both club secretaries awarded the goal to the attacker, although there really was no way of denying a very rare mistake by Bishops’ number one.

Bishops tried to get back into the game before the half-time whistle and from Darren Richardson’s cross, Darren Atkinson’s header crept just past Turns’ post.

Jeffries was back in superb form immediately to twice deny Ruddy, as he threatened to take the game completely away from the home side, but when the half-time whistle blew, the destination of the three points didn’t look in any doubt.

HT: Bishop Auckland 0, Spennymoor Town 2

Myers made three changes after the hour as Bishops tried to create something up front, and the introduction of Dan Hawkins and Vigan Qehaja and later Lewis Brown livened things up a little.

Chris Bell made some dribbling runs through the middle at the Spennymoor defence, but his shots were thrice blocked by the nearest defender.

When Bishops did get a well-worked sight at goal, the forwards were guilty of wayward shooting as most efforts flew high, wide and sometimes both, and the cars in the car park behind the West Stand seemed to be in more danger than Turns in the Town goal.

At the other end, Jeffries continued to underline his value to the team as he came racing out of his box to play sweeper and quell the danger posed by substitute Lawther. The Bishops’ custodian later saved from another sub, Emms, as the home defence appealed in vain for an offside flag that never looked like coming.

Bishops improved in the second half in front of Heritage Park’s second biggest crowd of the season but Moors weren’t seriously troubled, and the visitors were well worth their win. With results elsewhere going their way, Spennymoor went even closer to the league title but the defeat dropped Bishops down a place to 13th, equalling last season’s final placing.

Speaking to the Northern Echo after the game, Spennymoor Town boss Jason Ainsley said: "We don’t often score from set-pieces, so it was quite pleasing to do so. I thought the lads adapted well to the conditions, and we weren't in much trouble".

Bishop Auckland manager Colin Myers told Ray Simpson: "Spennymoor bossed the midfield, and they had the run of the pitch".

FT: Bishop Auckland 0, Spennymoor Town 2

— DE

BISHOP AUCKLAND SCHOOLS FA CUP FINAL

Heritage Park will stage one final match before the season ends with the Bishop Auckland Schools FA Under 14s Bishop's Cup Final which will take place on Tuesday May 3rd at 4.30pm.

This season's final is between Durham Johnston Comprehensive and Spennymoor Comprehensive.

Admission is Free.

BISHOP AUCKLAND 2, BILLINGHAM TOWN 1

Northern League Division One
Saturday, 16th April, 2011


Bishop Auckland 2, Billingham Town 1
MATCH REPORT


Bishops: Peter Jeffries / Stephen Salvin (capt) / Wayne Clarke / Phil Brumwell / Lewis Brown / Darren Richardson (Karl Everitt, HT) / Chris Bell / Daniel O’Donnell (Steven Turnbull, 65 mins) / Dan Hawkins / Wayne Gredziak (Vigan Qehaja, 72 mins) / Darren Atkinson


After three games without a win, Bishops returned to winning ways with a victory over Billingham Town that was much more comfortable than the final scoreline suggests.


Manager Colin Myers once again juggled his squad, making five changes from the starting eleven that took the field for the fiery Auckland Derby. Although both managers had to make changes after losing key men in the warm up. First, the visitors were forced to change their first choice keeper with Arthur coming in instead of Briggs, whilst twenty minutes before kick off, Dion Raitt was replaced by Daniel O’Donnell.


After the disappointment of losing to a last gasp winner at Bedford Terrace, Bishops started brightly on a sunny warm Spring afternoon on the Heritage Park dustbowl.


A free-kick on the left wing was taken by O’Donnell, and finding Chris Bell inside, his shot at goal ran just past the outstretched leg of Wayne Gredziak before being collected by the visiting replacement keeper. Arthur was soon in action again, and his aerial ability was tested when he collected a header from Gredziak following a cross from Darren Atkinson.


The opening goal came midway through the first half and culminated a good piece of flowing football. Dan Hawkins collected and controlled the ball well before cutting open the visiting defence with a superb ball that found Atkinson in the box. The wingers’ first controlling touch was sublime and he shot into the top corner of the net with aplomb.


After the breakthrough, Bishops continued to attack and looked the most likely to score again, but when a free kick pumped into the box was punched straight by the keeper to Atkinson, his first time shot from 25 yards out was well struck, but flew wide of the right hand upright.


Gredziak, unsurprisingly, was always looking to get involved in the action and was unlucky to see his dipping shot from a tight angle fly over the crossbar.


It was not until the 37th minute until Peter Jeffries (who was playing in his 100th league game) was called into action. Although struggling with injury, he made a flying save to deny Middleton.


Bishops could have made it two with the last chance of the half, but Hawkins’ header from a Gredziak pass was deflected wide for a corner, from which Stephen Salvin couldn’t quite stretch high enough to get the vital touch.


HT: Bishop Auckland 1, Billingham Town 0


The second half continued in much the same way as the previous forty-five minutes, with Bishops looking for goals whilst Jeffries looked on at the other end a virtual spectator.


Gredziak held off a defender to put Hawkins through, but he shot straight at the keeper. After which, Arthur got behind a long range effort from Atkinson and he later made a good save to deny Hawkins’ powerful shot from 12 yards out.


After the deluge of yellow and red cards on Thursday night, Gredziak picked up Bishops’ only caution of the game when he caught a defender in an aerial challenge. The visiting bench were screaming for referee Sharp to brandish a red card, but the official deemed that yellow was sufficient.


The Gredziak and Hawkins partnership brought the Two Blues the comfort of a two goal lead in the 69th minute when Arthur could not keep out Hawkins’ shot, and moments later, it could have been three when the keeper fumbled a Wayne Clarke effort, but the covering defender was on the line to make the clearance.


O’Donnell headed a Bell corner off the crossbar and substitute Vigan Qehaja did his best Ricky Villa impression as he dribbled into the box, twisting and turning defenders as he went. Unfortunately, the finish was not quite as good as the former Spurs man, and the visiting keeper made the save.


Jeffries was called on to play sweeper as he raced out of the area to head the ball away from danger, but he was finally beaten in the 90th minute when the Bishops defence was once again caught short at the back and Middleton took full advantage.


However, the goal was little more than a consolation for the visitors and the victory for the Two Blues keeps them in 12th position, although the teams around them also won. If the Bishops can win their remaining three games, they can equal last season’s points tally and finish at least one (possibly two) places higher.


Speaking to the Northern Echo after the game, Colin Myers said: “I thought we could have scored more. We intend to finish the season well”.


FT: Bishop Auckland 2, Billingham Town 1


— DE

BISHOP AUCKLAND 1, WEST AUCKLAND 2

Northern League Division One
Thursday, 14th April, 2011
Bishop Auckland 1, West Auckland Town 2
MATCH REPORT


Bishops: Peter Jeffries / Stephen Salvin (capt) / Ian Dixon (Vigan Qehaja, 47 mins) / Wayne Clarke / Karl Everitt (Lewis Brown, 67 mins) / Joe Grant / Chris Lawson / Dion Raitt / Steven Turnbull / Wayne Gredziak / Darren Richardson


West Auckland Town won the 106th Auckland Derby thanks to a hotly disputed injury time penalty that was awarded by the assistant referee. Both teams finished with nine players after match referee Broadbent brandished four red and eleven yellow cards as he struggled to keep control as most players lost their cool in a game that will most likely be remembered as the Battle of Heritage Park.


Bishops manager Colin Myers made four changes to the team that took the field on Monday night with Wayne Clarke, Karl Everitt, Joe Grant and Steven Turnbull coming into the starting eleven on a mild, clear Thursday evening.


Peter Jeffries was the first goalkeeper called into action when he dived low to his right to save Banks’ shot from just outside the area, but he looked on helpless minutes later when Moffat shot across goal only to see his effort thump off the far post before being hacked to safety.


The game exploded into life just after the quarter hour when the assistant on the far side flagged for an off the ball incident perpetrated against Bishop defender Ian Dixon. After consultation, Hindmarsh was shown a straight red card and trudged slowly off the pitch. Even then, there was a feeling that he would not be the last to be sent off, although no one could have anticipated just how many other off the ball incidents would subsequently occur.


When Dixon headed a Dion Raitt corner at goal, visiting keeper Bell was called into action for the first time, saving the Bishop defenders’ effort low down to his right.


The first half was punctuated by a succession of fouls and yellow cards with very few chances created, but West took the lead in the second minute of added time when a Nicholls shot was deflected. Although Jeffries got a hand to it, the ball went just inside the post to give the visitors the edge at the break.


HT: Bishop Auckland 0, West Auckland Town 1


More tackles and yellow cards after the interval, but within five minutes of the restart, the officials looked on as players from all over the pitch pushed and jostled each other. It was somewhat surprising, considering 18 players were involved in a series of altercations lasting nearly five minutes, that Stephen Salvin was the only player disciplined. For his part in proceedings, the Bishops captain was shown a second yellow card to go with the one he had received for a mistimed tackle in the first half.


Within minutes of play restarting, Wayne Gredziak raced through but his shot under pressure flew over the bar, over the West Terrace and into the car park beyond. But the award for the most wayward shot came later at the other end when a free kick was despatched out of the ground and into the adjacent car wash.


Bishops equaliser came just before the hour in bizarre fashion. A Raitt free-kick into the box seemed to be punched into his own net by a West defender, but as the debate continued, it was confirmed that Gredziak was the scorer.


Darren Richardson was unfortunate to join fellow Bishops, Everitt, Raitt, Qehaja and Salvin (twice) in the referee’s notebook when he was fouled by Berj and caught the defender as he tumbled over. The West player was also cautioned for the incident, but how he got away in the first half with his flagrant and continual dissent against the linesman and referee was something of a mystery.


With the ninety minutes up, a long ball into the Bishop box saw Clarke tussle with Lunn. The assistant on the near side flagged for a penalty and, having been adjudged denying a goal scoring opportunity, the Bishops defender was sent off.


Jeffries dived left for the spot kick, but Nicholls shot straight down the middle to give the visitors the lead.
There was still an eventful five minutes of added time to play and when a West player kicked the ball away once too often, Brown (who had already been booked for deliberately handling the ball to prevent a quick Bishops break) saw his second yellow and trudged slowly off the field proclaiming the sheer injustice of it all.
Thankfully, the final whistle came soon after to end proceedings and West recorded their 30th derby win, exactly half the number of Bishops successes in this fixture.


There was yet another incident in the tunnel as players and officials tempers continued to rise, and it seems almost certain that both clubs will be asked to account for their actions and be receiving hefty fines in due course.


FT: Bishop Auckland 1, West Auckland Town 2


— DE

BISHOP AUCKLAND 0, DUNSTON UTS 0

Northern League Division One

Monday, 11th April, 2011

Bishop Auckland 0, Dunston UTS 0

MATCH REPORT

Bishops: Peter Jeffries / Stephen Salvin (capt) / Ian Dixon (Joe Grant) / Phillip Brumwell / Lewis Brown / Darren Richardson (Daniel O’Donnell) / Chris Lawson / Dion Raitt / Dan Hawkins / Wayne Gredziak / Vigan Qehaja

Bishops began another mini-series of home games with a goal-less draw at Heritage Park against Dunston UTS on a clear Spring evening with a cold gusty wind blowing across the ground.

Manager Colin Myers made five changes to the team that drew on Saturday at Consett, welcoming back captain Stephen Salvin, Lewis Brown, Chris Lawson, Vigan Qehaja and Darren Richardson to the starting eleven. On the bench, was the welcome sight of Joe Grant, back home from his university studies, and he would play a part later in the game.

After a quiet start, the first real chance fell to Lawson, but his header from a left-wing cross went wide of the upright, and keeper Clark pulled off a fairly comfortable save from a Dan Hawkins long-range shot.

At the other end, Mills swung over a left-wing corner into the Bishop’s box but M Dixon’s free header went over the bar.

There was a nervy moment when an attempted Bishops clearance struck the arm of a Two Blue player and referee Rogers awarded a free kick on the edge of the box. Peter Jeffries saw Galbraith’s shot late, but still got down well to make the save.

Chances continued to come at both ends, with Hawkins and Richardson’s wayward finishing not testing the Dunston keeper frequently enough, but when called upon, the Bishops keeper was equal to the task and a combination of arms and legs kept out Mills’ effort.

Jeffries was beaten when visiting substitute McAndrew crossed into the box for McAlindon to shoot at goal, but Ian Dixon had read the danger and came to the rescue to clear the ball off the line and out of danger.

Still Bishops pressed, and when Qehaja helped on a long free-kick towards goal, the official waved away appeals for a spot kick despite the ball seemingly being blocked by a visiting arm.

Hawkins missed the final chance to open the scoring in the first half having run towards goal with visiting captain Cattanach in close attendance. Under pressure, the Bishop forward could only get off a weak shot at goal, but the keeper flapped it around the post for a corner, which came to nothing.

HT: Bishop Auckland 0, Dunston UTS

Bishops looked more likely to score after the break, but were once again guilty of not taking their chances. A Raitt corner was headed powerfully over the bar before Wayne Gredziak chased a long ball over the top, but having used his strength to hold off a niggling defender, he shot over, and a move switching from left to right and involving Richardson, Qehaja and Hawkins, saw the latter test keeper Clark.

Jeffries was a virtual spectator for most of the half, having watched McAndrew shoot well over, but the Bishops keeper pulled off a decent save to deny substitute Bulford.

But it was Gredziak who had a number of chances to open the scoring, but to no avail. Again running onto another long ball over the top, the forwards’ shot went wide of the post as the keeper seemed flat-footed, and when he did manage to get an effort on target, Clark pulled off a good save to keep the scores level.

There was talk of Wayne Rooney’s spectacular overhead winner in the Manchester derby when Gredziak made good contact with an overhead effort of his own, but the striker got his angles wrong and instead of nestling in the top right hand corner of the net, the ball flew about a yard wide of the post.

In the dying moments, Gredziak was pulled down on the edge of the Dunston box, but the match official waved away shouts for a penalty, as he had also done from a number of handball shouts made by the visitors.

When the final whistle went, Bishops had failed once again to break the Dunston duck, but they had recorded their second successive league draw, but this one was the first ever draw recorded at Heritage Park, and the first goal-less draw at ‘home’ for over eight years.

The point was also significant as it moves Bishops up two places to the dizzy heights of 12th, still with a game or two in hand of their nearest challengers, but some distance behind South Shields in 11th. Looks like a similar final position to last season, but with the chance of bettering that, but only just.

Speaking after the game to the Northern Echo, Bishops boss Myers said: "I thought we had the chances to win the game, but at least we’ve moved up the table".

FT: Bishop Auckland 0, Dunston UTS 0

-- DE

RELEGATION FEARS OVER

Jarrow Roofing's failure to win on Saturday secured Bishop Auckland FC's Northern League first division status for another season.

A strong run of results has lifted Bishops from 20th to 14th in recent weeks, and safety was secured with six games to spare.

CONSETT 3, BISHOP AUCKLAND 3

Northern League Division One

Saturday 9th April

Consett 3, Bishop Auckland 3

MATCH REPORT

Bishop Auckland: Peter Jeffries / Wayne Clarke (Chris Lawson HT) / Ian Dixon / Phil Brumwell / Daniel O’Donnell / Dion Raitt / Chris Bell (Adam Strong 58mins) / Steven Turnbull (Darren Richardson 69mins) / Daniel Hawkins / Wayne Gredziak / Darren Atkinson

A spectacularly sunny early April day for this match. Three weeks ago this looked like a fixture that would have had some bearing on both ends of the table, but with Consett’s dip in form and Bishops recent successes there was a risk that this would end up being a bit of a non-event. Nothing could have been further from the truth.

Bishops were immediately on the offensive and on 3 minutes Wayne Gredziak slotted the ball between two defenders to Hawkins who lobbed a shot over the ‘keeper but onto the roof of the net.

Two minutes later and a sliced clearance saw Hawkins latch onto the ball but despite pushing it past the ‘keeper on the perimeter of the box Hawkins failed to find a shooting angle and the ball was cleared.

Bishops fell behind on six minutes when Bishops defence was caught out by a ball over the top. Jeffries saved the first shot but Burrell fired home the rebound.

Peter Jeffries kept Bishops in it on 12 minutes pulline off an unbelievable double save, with the post coming to the rescue between the two saves. However, the heroics went unrewarded as Craggs scored from the next phase of play. 2-0 down, and things weren’t looking too good.

Bishops needed an inspirational moment and got it on the quarter hour. A corner was cleared to O’Donnell 30 yards from goal, and the midfielder unleashed a superb dipping volley which beat the ‘keeper and crashed in off the underside of the bar. Game on.

Ten minutes later and Bishops were level. Gredziak was fouled on the edge of the area, and a penalty was awarded. The striker had the spot-kick saved well by Poskett, but the rebound fell kindly and Gredziak blasted the ball home to make it 2-2.

Just before the half hour and with Jeffries beaten by a floated shot, Phil Brumwell retreated to clear the ball up and over the bar from just in front of the goalline.

Brumwell picked up the first booking of the game just before half time when he kicked the ball over the main stand and into the car park after having a free kick awarded against him. Not the toughest of decisions for the referee to make.

HT Consett 2, Bishop Auckland 2

Chris Lawson replaced Wayne Clarke at the start of the second half.

Dion Raitt was the centre of attention early in the second half. First for a late and high tackle which earned him a yellow card. Then just seconds later he showed a finer side to his game, receiving a pass from Gredziak and beating two men before sending in a curling shot which was comfortably saved by Poskett.

End to end still and at the other end Jeffries dived full length to make a solid save on 55 minutes.

Bishops took the lead on 63 minutes when a 30 yard free kick crashed against the bar. Gredziak was on hand to blast in the rebound.

However, as so frequently in recent matches, Bishops failed to keep the lead for long and just five minutes later Craggs got a knee to the ball bouncing around inside the six yard box and it crept in at the far post. 3-3.

Both sides missed chances in the closing exchanges as players tired leaving space all over the pitch. Consett’s best chance resulted in another Brumwell goal-line clearance. At the other end, Gredziak fired wide a couple of times, but all in all the draw was a fair reflection of the game.

Whilst the point wasn’t quite what was necessary to keep Bishops in Division 1, Jarrow Roofing’s draw at Billingham Town was, so another season was secured in Division 1 with six games remaining.

FT Consett 3, Bishop Auckland 3

JC

JARROW ROOFING 1 BISHOP AUCKLAND 2

Northern League Division One

Tuesday, 5th April, 2011

Jarrow Roofing 1, Bishop Auckland 2

MATCH REPORT

Bishops: Peter Jeffries / Wayne Clarke (Owen Lancaster, 75 mins) / Phil Shead / Phil Brumwell / Stephen Salvin (capt) / Dion Raitt (Daniel O’Donnell, 68 mins) / Chris Bell / Steven Turnbull (Lewis Brown, 66 mins) / Dan Hawkins / Wayne Gredziak / Darren Atkinson

Bishops made the midweek trip to Boldon on a clear but breezy night and came home with all three points against a Jarrow Roofing team that seem to be sliding inevitably towards relegation.

Manager Colin Myers made two changes from the team that lost against Newcastle Benfield, with Darren Atkinson and Steven Turnbull replacing Ian Dixon and Darren Richardson in the starting line-up.

On the way into the ground, fans had to walk past a game already in progress at ‘The Villa’, and considering the amount of cheering heard from that game, there was surely more goalmouth action at that alternative than that offered inside the Boldon CA Sports Ground.

Looking around the crowd, it was clear to see that there were significantly more cheering for the men in white shirts than those supporting the Roofers, not that there was much to cheer in a lacklustre first half.

Bishops’ first chance came from a free-kick awarded when Wardle pulled down Wayne Gredziak, but Dion Raitt’s shot was blocked, and after a lay-off by Gredziak, Chris Bell’s effort flew well over the bar.

Raitt created the next chance when he collected the ball in the centre circle and ran towards the Roofing goal. His powerful shot from well over 30 yards out was saved by Liversegde, diving low down to his left.

Bishops did have the ball in the net just after the half hour after good interchange play between Gredziak and Dan Hawkins, but the assistant’s flag was already raised as the latter slotted the ball home.

A visiting supporter on her way back from the tea hut with a Mars bar in hand (although it was yet to be discovered how out of date the confectionery was) confirmed that Hawkins was about a yard offside when Gredziak played the ball through to him.

HT: Jarrow Roofing 0, Bishop Auckland 0

There was drama at the refreshment stand during the interval when a best-before 20th February Mars bar was exchanged for one labelled 29th March (only a week out), and those with Cola cans also experienced similar problems.

(Note to stock control: order much, much less next year, especially if in Division Two).

Within a minute of play resuming, Bishops were ahead. Gredziak running with the ball before shooting past Liversedge in the Roofing goal, to score his second in as many matches.

Bishops then missed a series of chances to put the game beyond any doubt before they finally scored their second.

The Roofing keeper did well to save a Darren Atkinson strike from a lay back by Hawkins, who was unlucky to see his long run and shot bounce off the post and rebound wide off a defender.

Liversedge saved a Gredziak volley with his face after the Bishop striker had connected well with a long ball over the top, but within a few minutes of that chance, the second goal finally came.

Gredziak’s backheeled controlled pass found Atkinson out wide, and he crossed into the middle for Hawkins to pounce and score.

Roofing’s troubles looked clear for all to see. Far too often, they wasted possession and frequently their passes went into touch. Even one cross field pass went fully forty yards backwards to put their own defence under pressure. Although the home side did threaten occasionally, most of the time Peter Jeffries was able to collect comfortably.

However, the Bishops keeper was called upon to pull of a fabulous double save from Hughes, the second coming when Jeffries was still laid on the floor, but the injured keeper was beaten in the final minute when Watling applied the finishing touch, almost unnoticed and certainly uncelebrated in the ground.

Bishops now have a serious goalkeeping problem, as their only other registered keeper, Ryan Graham, has a broken collar bone. Colin Myers told the Northern Echo: "We’ll see how Peter is later in the week. We might ask the league if we can sign a goalkeeper, but somehow I doubt we’ll be able to. It was a good win, considering we have so many injuries, but Jarrow aren’t having any luck. They missed some good chances at 1-0".

The win lifts the Two Blues up one place to 14th and practically assures that they are safe from relegation, although another three points will mathematically secure that. Having played Jarrow Roofing and West Allotment Celtic recently, one must fear for the Roofers survival.

FT: Jarrow Roofing 1, Bishop Auckland 2

— DE

BISHOP AUCKLAND 3 NEWCASTLE BENFIELD 4

Northern League Division One

Saturday, 2nd April, 2011

 

Bishop Auckland 3, Newcastle Benfield 4

MATCH REPORT

  

Bishops: Peter Jeffries / Wayne Clarke / Philip Shead / Phil Brumwell / Ian Dixon / Dion Raitt (Steven Turnbull, 76 mins) / Chris Bell / Stephen Salvin (capt) / Dan Hawkins / Wayne Gredziak / Darren Richardson

  

Bishops returned to Heritage Park to take on high-flying Newcastle Benfield on a sunny afternoon that followed a torrential downpour earlier in the day. Significant rainfall had fallen that required an army of volunteers working on the pitch to make it playable. Their efforts were successful in getting the game on, with just a few heavy patches here and there to show for the earlier deluge.

 

There was further drama before kick-off when the visitors arrived expecting to play in their own blue shirts. Any thought that the home side would wear their away strip was dispelled, and the Bishops lined up in their famous two blue strip to take on a team wearing Bishop’s white away shirts, to the obvious delight of the kit sponsors.

 

Bishops were searching for their first league win against Benfield and looked dangerous in front of the visitors goal.

 

Darren Richardson fired the first meaningful shot of the game just wide after a good move down the left wing which involved the winger himself, Wayne Gredziak and Dan Hawkins.

 

The visiting keeper was the first goalie in action when he pulled off a good save from a Gredziak effort that came from a free-kick on the half-way line taken by Wayne Clarke.

 

Bishops could have taken the lead twenty minutes in when a free-kick on the left was headed on by Stephen Salvin, but the Two Blues captain was unlucky to see his header strike the crossbar and bounce down in front of the goal line before it was cleared.

 

But the goal Auckland richly deserved came four minutes later. Gredziak and Hawkins combined well down the left before Hawkins surged into the box and crossed low for Chris Bell to prod home from close range with two defenders in close attendance.

 

And five minutes later, Bishops were two up when Benfield defender Paterson misjudged a long clearance and Gredziak took full advantage to superbly chip the quickly advancing keeper.

 

The away side had keeper Grainger to thank for keeping them in the game when he pulled off a fantastic save to deny Dan Hawkins, and the travelling officials and fans could have had no complaints if Bishops had been four up by the time Benfield put together anything in front of goal.

 

Just four minutes before the half-time whistle, Fenwick seized on a defensive slip to score past Peter Jeffries.

 

HT: Bishop Auckland 2, Newcastle Benfield 1

 

After the interval, Gredziak missed the chance to restore a two goal cushion when he shot over the bar after the Benfield keeper had punched a Bell corner straight to him.

 

If a defensive slip was to play a big part in the first Benfield goal, a misplaced Dion Raitt pass had a part to play in the second. The assistant was flagging for a foul against the Two Blues when Dodsworth crossed into the box for Leighton to equalise at the back post in the 55th minute.

 

More goals were to come, but they came at the wrong end for Bishop supporters. With less than a quarter of an hour to go, a free-kick from just over the half-way line was floated into the home penalty area, and whilst the defence looked static, Leighton got on the end of the cross to score his second from a free header.

 

Ten minutes later, the match official chose to ignore a clear two footed challenge from a Benfield player and quickly blew when the same player theatrically tumbled over an outstretched Bishop leg. Feasey curled the generously awarded free-kick around the wall and into the top left corner of Jeffries’ goal, giving the keeper absolutely no chance.

 

But Bishops battled back, and in the ninetieth minute, Richardson smashed home from 12-yards when the ball fell kindly to him after a number of blocked shots and rebounds.

 

There was still time for referee Hart to infuriate the home supporters when he waved away shouts for a penalty after a clear handball in the Benfield box, but the 210 crowd were not infuriated as much as the unlucky Bishops programme editor and match reporter who had the misfortune to sit next to a foul-mouthed visiting ‘official’. Respect? Yeah right!

 

For the first time this season, Bishops had allowed a half-time lead to slip away and lose a game they should have won in the opening half-hour. Results elsewhere mean that Auckland drop down one place in the league table to 15th, but they still have games in hand on the teams directly above them. Jarrow Roofing awaits on Tuesday night.

 

FT: Bishop Auckland 3, Newcastle Benfield 4

 

— DE

 

WEST ALLOTMENT 1 BISHOP AUCKLAND 1

Northern League Division One

Wednesday, 30th March, 2011

West Allotment Celtic 1, Bishop Auckland 1

MATCH REPORT 

Bishops: Peter Jeffries / Wayne Clarke / Phil Shead / Phil Brumwell / Lewis Brown / Dion Raitt / Chris Bell / Stephen Salvin (capt) / Vigan Qehaja / Wayne Gredziak / Darren Richardson

After seven consecutive home games, Bishops were on the road for the midweek trip across the River Tyne to Whitley Park, the home of West Allotment Celtic.

The hectic schedule of the last fortnight, injuries, suspensions and work commitments meant that Colin Myers had to again juggle his playing resources.

Coming straight into the starting eleven was Phil Shead — recently released from Middlesbrough Academy —and best known to Bishop fans as the scorer of the first goal at Heritage Park when Boro were the visitors for the Opening Match in last November’s monsoon.

A unique deal of getting two golden goal tickets and a programme all for a £1 meant that there was plenty of interest in the opening skirmishes.

Bishops looked dangerous up front and from a free-kick on the edge of the area, awarded when Celtic’s central defender Stoneman pulled down Wayne Gredziak, Dion Raitt hit the post with his curling shot. Such was the ferocity of the kick that fans behind the goal speculated how many inches the frame of the goal had moved.

Down the right wing, a maraudering Chris Bell put in a great cross from the byline towards the centre of the goal but before Gredziak could get his head to it, Stoneman once again pulled him down to the ground. The ball fell to Stephen Salvin, who scuffed his shot well wide of the upright. The referee, surprisingly awarded a goal kick as opposed to a penalty kick.

Bishops spurned another chance to take the lead in the opening quarter of an hour when Gredziak chased a long ball over the top and actually overtook it in the Celtic penalty area. As he attempted to gain control, keeper Bannon dived at his feet to deny the chance.

Finally, after pulling Gredziak down for the third time, Stoneman was booked — but from then on in, referee Markham seemed to rule everything in the defenders’ favour so as not to have to pull out a second yellow. Raitt’s shot from further away went wide.

Celtic got more into the game as the half wore on and after Peter Jeffries had made an easy save from an effort fired straight at him, the home side rattled the cross bar with a shot from the edge of the penalty area.

Bishops went straight up the other end and created the last chance of the first–half, but Darren Richardson’s shot was comfortably saved by the home keeper.

HT: West Allotment 0, Bishop Auckland 0

Bishops started the second period brightly and again quickly threatened the Celtic goal. Gredziak cleverly controlled a long ball and, holding off his defender, passed inside to Vigan Qehaja, but his shot went wide.

The home keeper had a lucky escape just after the hour when he pulled down Richardson in the area. Once again, referee Markham failed to give the penalty, but he did show the Bishop winger a yellow card when he questioned the official’s peculiar decision.

Richardson was not to be denied his goal, and within a couple of minutes Gredziak, Qehaja and Salvin all combined well to set up the winger, who held off the unwanted attention of the full back, and coolly lifted the ball over the advancing keeper and into the net from 12 yards.

But once again, Bishops could not hold on to their lead for long and Celtic equalised with twenty minutes to go. From a corner delivered low into the box, Buzzeo thundered a shot off the face of the bar and when the ball dropped, Chapman was on hand to tap in the rebound.

A melee after the goal saw punches thrown at Jeffries and an Allotment player requiring some lengthy treatment. The referee booked both combatants, and Gredziak also saw yellow before the end for questioning another of the official’s many bizarre decisions that went in favour of the home team.

Bishops last chance to claim all three points came in the last two minutes with Gredziak once again in the thick of the action. His pass fed Bell on the wing and he ran to the byline before crossing into the penalty area. Gredziak’s header from 8 yards out was well saved by keeper Bannon, but the rebound fell to Qehaja who was running away from goal. Having skipped over a tackle, he turned and fired the ball at goal and when Richardson stuck out a leg, the instinctive effort went agonizingly the wrong side of the post.

So Bishops record only their second league draw of the campaign and the result puts them level on points with (although one goal worse off than) Tow Law Town. Whether one point is enough for relegation threatened Allotment remains to be seen, but with Esh Winning just one defeat away from the dreaded drop, the threat of relegation to the Bishops’ seems a distant memory. What a difference a fortnight makes!

FT: West Allotment Celtic 1, Bishop Auckland 1

— DE

BISHOP AUCKLAND 2 SOUTH SHIELDS 0

Northern League Division One

Saturday, 26th March, 2011

Bishop Auckland 2, South Shields 0

MATCH REPORT

Bishops: Peter Jeffries / Ian Dixon / Darren Richardson / Wayne Clarke / Steven Turnbull / Dion Raitt (Lewis Brown, 59 mins) / Chris Bell (Craig Toman, 71 mins) / Stephen Salvin (capt) / Dan Hawkins / Vigan Qehaja (Wayne Gredziak, 55 mins) / Darren Atkinson

Game seven of an eventful fortnight, and Colin Myers made seven changes from the team that defeated Billingham Synthonia in midweek, confident that the current run of home form would continue and that Bishops were on course to beat last season’s finishing position of 13th place.

Dion Raitt, signed from Newton Aycliffe (in pole position for promotion), returned to the club, having first pulled on a Two Blue shirt at the start of the last decade whilst Bishops entertained Northern Premier League teams at Kingsway.

With the number of games played in the last couple of weeks, it was quite understandable that Bishops struggled to create many goal scoring opportunities in a game that lacked tempo and had something of the feel of an end of season mid-table fixture.

Nonetheless, Bishops did create much more than their higher placed opponents on a dusty Heritage Park pitch which had some in the media area thinking of the pitches they had seen during African Nations football.

Back on the dust bowl, Auckland’s first chance came after quarter of an hour when Chris Bell’s free kick on the right was floated into the box and found Darren Atkinson who laid it off for Stephen Salvin to shoot, but the Bishops’ captain shot well over the bar.

A couple of minutes later, Ian Dixon set off a good passing move down the same wing which involved Bell, Dan Hawkins and Salvin, but when the captain’s cross came into the box, Hawkins missed his kick. The ball fortuitously found Atkinson at the far post, but his shot was well saved low down by keeper Parkin.

Both keepers then denied their opposing number nines. First, Peter Jeffries calmly palmed down and then collected a shot from Ramsey and then Parkin palmed the lively Hawkins’ effort away for a corner.

But Bishops took the lead in first half injury time that their play and chances probably deserved. A Bell free kick into the box was met by the towering Steven Turnbull, who netted his third header in two games.

HT: Bishop Auckland 1, South Shields 0

An eventful opening to the second half saw the visitors attempt to get back on level terms, but Jeffries saved low down a Fitzpatrick shot from the edge of the Bishops penalty area.

The Two Blues went straight up the other end, and the dynamic Turnbull half-volleyed a shot about a yard past the left-hand upright.

Referee Martin’s loud blast on the whistle stopped another Bishops attack in its tracks. The crowd were left questioning whether advantage should have been played when Atkinson found the ball at his feet clean through on goal after Hall had committed a bad foul, but the referee stopped play in order to book the visiting skipper.

Shields then missed a series of chances to equalise. First, Jeffries uncharacteristically fumbled the ball from a corner, but a defender was on hand to clear McArdle’s scuffed shot off the line. Ramsey side-footed the ball past the post and Ryan shot over the bar before O’Brien stretched but could only direct his effort wide.

It looked like it wasn’t going to be the visitors day and the introduction of Wayne Gredziak for Vigan Qehaja seemed to offer the home side a little more up front.

Hawkins took the ball off Sheilds’ substitute McBryde’s foot, but the keeper dived at his feet to snuff out the chance and when Turnbull blocked a poor clearance by Briggs, Gredziak raced onto the loose ball, but his shot was well saved by Parkin.

A great piece of skill by Hawkins left McArdle in his wake, but Gredziak’s cheeky little attempt to side foot the cross home was not quite as skilful, and the big forward failed to make any contact.

But Bishops finally made the three points safe in the ninetieth minute when, after a move down the right was broken up, the play was switched to the left wing where substitute Craig Toman slipped the ball inside to another sub, Lewis Brown — whose long range shot flew into the top corner of the goal despite replacement keeper Carmichael doing well to get a touch.

So, after the disappointment against Stokesley a fortnight earlier, and a not unexpected defeat to Whitley Bay in the middle of the series, Bishops picked up 15 points out of the possible 21 that were available during the last two weeks and now find themselves standing in a much healthier 14th place in the league table with Tow Law Town and Sunderland RCA firmly in their sights.

FT: Bishop Auckland 2, South Shields 0

— DE

BISHOP AUCKLAND 4 BILLINGHAM SYNTHONIA 2

Northern League Division One

Wednesday, 23rd March, 2011

Bishop Auckland 4, Billingham Synthonia 2

MATCH REPORT

Team: Peter Jeffries (capt) / Ian Dixon / Wayne Clarke / Phil Brumwell / Daniel O’Donnell (Lewis Brown, 51 mins) / Karl Everitt (Darren Richardson, 66 mins) / Adam Strong (Vigan Qemaja, 60 mins) / Steven Turnbull / Dan Hawkins / Wayne Gredziak / Chris Bell

Game six of Bishops’ seven home game series finally welcomed Billingham Synthonia to Heritage Park in a fixture that had been postponed on three occasions.

Inevitably with so many games in quick succession — injuries, suspensions and unavailability was always going to be an issue and the Two Blues went into the game without three key men: Darren Atkinson, Chris Lawson and Stephen Salvin, so Peter Jeffries was named captain for the night.

After a quiet opening ten minutes, the home side took the lead when Chris Bell (unusually playing on the left wing) crossed into the box for Steven Turnbull to head powerfully into the net past Synners’ keeper Moody.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

It is said that teams are most vulnerable just after they have scored and Bishops proved that maxim true on two occasions in this game. Within a minute of going behind, Synners equalised when Liddle crossed from the right wing and Osmond glanced in a header.

Bishops pressed again, and a long curling free-kick into the visitors’ penalty area was met by Karl Everitt, but Moody got a touch to it and the ball rebounded off the crossbar before being cleared to safety.

But the Two Blues were not to be denied, and scored their second after 18 minutes when a right wing free-kick was played deep into the box for Turnbull to head in his second of the night.

This time, the lead lasted barely three minutes. Iley, playing in his last game for Billingham before emigrating Down Under, took advantage of a defensive error, and an unlucky ‘bobble’, to shoot under Jeffries.

There were chances at both ends, but Jeffries continued his superb run of form by denying the two visiting goal scorers and a Wayne Gredziak shot for the home side went wide.

Bishops regained the lead with just three minutes of the half remaining. Dan Hawkins superbly finished a move which involved Adam Strong and Gredziak. Moody stood rooted to the spot as Hawkins shot from 20-yards into the bottom corner.

This time, the Two Blues preserved their lead, but they had to thank their captain for saving yet another Iley effort.

HT: Bishop Auckland 3, Billingham Synthonia 2

Good action on the pitch and there was plenty happening off it when referee Thompson decided that he couldn’t continue because of a groin injury. Fortunately, in the crowd was another referee who was able to nip home and collect his kit during an extended half-time interval before returning to run the line as senior assistant Bunting took over the whistle.

But the second referee lasted just ten minutes until he had to come off after twisting his ankle. As it was being strapped up by Bishops’ physio, David Hopwood, Colin Myers questioned how anyone could twist their ankle on a pitch that was "like a bowling green".

McClelland then took over the whistle and veteran FIFA referee, George Courtney, took up the flag to run the line in his trousers and shoes! Old habits must die hard, for he was dressed all in black anyway.

Manager Myers later told the Northern Echo: "George didn’t bother getting changed, he just went straight on to the pitch. He’s still very fit — when our defender Ian Dixon went on an overlap, George overtook him"!

When play finally resumed, the rest of the game was punctuated by player injuries, substitutions, and the occasional booking, but not much in the way of goal scoring opportunities.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

But with less than twenty minutes to go, Vigan Qemaja gave Bishops a two goal lead after he seized on a loose ball in the penalty area. The chance came to him after a Synners’ defender had comically tried to head a cross away that was getting lower and lower until it reached the point where he was just inches off the ground when he came into contact with the ball, and handled it.

Third referee of the evening, McClelland, seemed to be playing a good advantage and Qemaja saved the official the trouble of awarding a spot kick, when he knocked in Bishops’ fourth.

From then on, the result was never in any real doubt and at the final whistle, Bishops leapfrogged over their visitors in the league table to reclaim 15th place. Now ten points above the relegation zone, Bishops had picked up 12 points from their last six matches.

The players left the field to generous applause and it continued as the stand-in officials walked off. George Courtney, now aged 69, saluted the crowd as he left.

FT: Bishop Auckland 4, Billingham Synthonia 2

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

— DE

BISHOP AUCKLAND 0 WHITLEY BAY 2

Northern League Division One

Wednesday, 23rd March, 2011

Bishop Auckland 0, Whitley Bay 2

MATCH REPORT

Team: Peter Jeffries / Ian Dixon / Chris Lawson / Phil Brumwell / Karl Everitt (Wayne Clarke) / Darren Richardson (Daniel O’Donnell) / Chris Bell / Stephen Salvin (capt) / Dan Hawkins / Vigan Qemaja / Darren Atkinson (Wayne Gredziak)

The first day of Spring and a sunny day gave way to a clear night as Bishop lined up against Whitley Bay for the fourth time this season, still looking for their first win.

The recent record did not give rise for much optimism with Whitley winning the last nine league encounters and they were coming into the match on the back of a 13 game winning streak, but Bishops had won three games on the trot, and this was the first encounter at Heritage Park, on a pitch which was looking somewhat greener.

Compared to the action and controversy of previous encounters this season, this was a somewhat quieter affair which had only dim echoes of past matches.

Still, it didn’t take long for the visitors’ players and fans to cry out for their usually obligatory penalty, but referee Raine ignored their first appeal, and unusually for this fixture, there were no more to come. So much for deciding to count them all…

Vigan Qemaja and Chris Bell both had shots at goal before Stephen Salvin was booked for pulling down the opposing captain at the other end. Kerr took the free kick from a central position on the edge of the Bishops’ penalty area and curled his shot around the wall and into the top corner of the net.

The goal came in only the sixth minute of play, and an early goal conceded against Bay usually signifies the start of a deluge of goals, but that was not to be the case as Bishops more than match their opponents for the remainder of the game.

After Phil Brumwell cleared off the line to deny Kerr his second, the visitors had defender Pounder to thank for maintaining their lead when he cleared off the line to deny Dan Hawkins after a mistake by keeper Hayes.

Whitley had the referee to thank for not sending off ex-Bishop Rowe for an aerial challenge which the official deemed worthy of only a yellow card despite his signalling that the Bay defender had used an elbow. That caution looked lenient especially when Karl Everitt was booked minutes later for a clumsy challenge.

Bell fluffed the chance to equalise after a good move down the right involving three players left the winger with an opportunity to shoot at goal. Although he did well to twist and turn to create the angle, he scuffed his shot leaving Hayes an easy save.

The visitors missed the opportunity to go two clear when Peter Jeffries saved Taylor’s low shot, despite seeing the ball late as it came through a forest of legs, and somehow a combination of Ian Dixon and the upright managed to keep out a dangerous right wing cross from Taylor.

HT: Bishop Auckland 0, Whitley Bay 1

There was a scary moment in the home defence immediately after the resumption when Karl Everitt inexplicably chose to let the ball bounce rather than head it away. Taylor took advantage of the defensive lapse to run free and fire a shot at goal which Jeffries palmed away. The ball rebounded to the visiting forward in, albeit, a wider position but fortunately for the Two Blues, Brumwell had read the danger and got back to clear Taylor’s second effort off the line.

For half an hour, the game was punctuated by a series of bookings and substitutions and increasingly peculiar decisions by the man in black, and neither team created much in front of goal before Whitley scored their second to effectively seal the points.

Perhaps tired limbs allowed defender Gibson to collect the ball in his own half and run unimpeded towards the Bishops goal. The Two Blues seemed to just stand and watch as Gibson played a quick one-two that saw him burst into the box and slide Bay’s second under the advancing Jeffries.

Still Bishops attacked in an effort to get back into the game, and despite being understandably unable to raise the tempo, they created three good chances in the last ten minutes.

A good move down the left involving Qemaja and substitute Gredziak gave the former an opening but his shot flew just wide, and Bay keeper Hayes used his feet to deny Hawkins a tap-in before Darren Atkinson’s late shot was dragged wide of the post.

The final whistle blew soon after and the visitors recorded their 14th straight win. Speaking to the Northern Echo, Colin Myers said: "There were a lot of tired legs, and some of our players seemed to hit the wall. We didn’t have the legs to get at Whitley when we needed to".

News that Billingham Synthonia had won meant that the two teams swapped places in the league table before meeting at Heritage Park on Wednesday night.

FT: Bishop Auckland 0, Whitley Bay 2

— DE

.

BISHOP AUCKLAND FC SUPPORT COMIC RELIEF

Bishop Auckland FC teamed up with Sainsbury's Bishop Auckland and Bishop FM to promote Comic Relief last week at Heritage Park.

 

 

DAFT - BOB HARDISTY EXHIBITION

21st March 2011 - 18th April 2011
After the popularity of this exhibition at Bishop Auckland Town Hall in September, Durham Amateur Football Trust are repeating their exhibition on Bob Hardisty, this time at the Locomotion Museum in Shildon (during normal opening hours).  Admission is free tel 01388 777999 to check opening hours.

BISHOP AUCKLAND 2, ASHINGTON 1

Northern League Division One

Saturday 19th March, 2011

Bishop Auckland 2, Ashington 1

MATCH REPORT

Team: Peter Jeffries, Ian Dixon, Chris Lawson, Wayne Clarke, Karl Everitt, Darren Richardson, Chris Bell, Stephen Salvin, Daniel Hawkins, Vigan Quehaja (Wayne Gredziak 70mins), Darren Atkinson

A fourth home game in the week, and Manager Colin Myers took the opportunity to rest a few legs after some tough games on tough pitches over the last few days.  Phil Brumwell, Daniel O'Donnell and Wayne Gredziak dropped to the bench and Steven Turnbull couldn't even find a place there.  Gigan Quehaja finally received international clearance and came in for a debut with Dan Hawkins, Karl Everitt and Wayne Clarke also back.

The tired legs seemed to be showing as Bishops made a slow start and Ashington almost took the lead on four minutes when the were caught napping with a quickly taken free kick resulting in a low cross which missed a forest of legs as it flew across the edge of the six yard box.

A minute later and the visitors were in front with Damon Mullen heading home from close reange.

Ten minutes on the clock and Richardson crossed to Salvin who flicked a header to the far post where Quehaja shot but the ball was saved and pushed out for a corner.  From the flag kick Hawkins flicked a header just wide.

Bishops came right into the game after the shaky start and the equaliser did come on 21 minutes when Hawkins did well to get between 'keeper and defender and bundle the ball off the two before sidefooting home into the unguarded net.  1-1.

Half an hour on the clock and a long Ashington throw saw Jeffries punching clear and when the ball came back in Richardson blocked a goalbound effort.

A minutes later and it was Bishops creating panic with a long throw and Salvin's flick found Hawkins who flicked the ball just over and onto the roof of the net.

33 minutes and Jeffries lifted the ball out to Atkinson who layed on a pass to Richardson who took the ball in his stride and fired in a low drive from 25 yards which bashed into the foot of the post.  The ball flew back out across goal to Qehaja whose rebound effort was pushed wide.

Wayne Clarke picked up a yellow on 38 minutes for a mis-timed tackle.

Ashington came close to re-taking the lead on 44 minutes with pressure in the box and a low shot which Jeffries kept out with his feet.  In injury time Atkinson crossed for the dangerous Hawkins but the striker's volley went straight into the 'keeper's arms.

HT: Bishop Auckland 1, Ashington 1

Bishops took the lead on 56 minutes.  Dan Hawkins raced into the box and wriggled through a tackle before the ball rolled into space.  Qehaja beat a defender to strike a blistering shot which flew in to the delight of the Bishops supporters massed on the terracing behind the goal. 2-1.

62 minutes and a quick break from Bishops with Hawkins leading a two on two charge, but the shot was blocked.

Qehaja was replaced by Gredziak on 70 minutes with warm applause for both the departing and arriving players.

76 minutes and Karl Everitt was called into action, blocking a dangerous chance after a quick break.

A minute later and Salvin was desperately unlucky when a beautiful curling shot hit the face of the far post and Bell fired the rebound shot into the car park.

Bishops continued to press and ten minutes from time Bell's deep cross found Atkinson who blazed over the bar from a great position.

Another chance on 85 minutes when Bell passed to Everitt whose quick cross found Hawkins who volleyed first time just inches over.

A great performance for Bishops and a third win in five days which lifts the club up to the dizzy heights of 15th position.

FT: Bishop Auckland 2, Ashington 1

BISHOP AUCKLAND 3, RYTON 0

Northern League Division One

Thursday 17th March 2011

Bishop Auckland 3, Ryton 0

MATCH REPORT

Team: Peter Jeffries, Chris Lawson, Darren Richardson, Phil Brumwell, Ian Dixon, Daniel O'Donnell (Karl Everitt), Chris Bell (Adam Strong), Stephen Salvin, Wayne Gredziak, Steven Turnbull (Lewis Brown), Darren Atkinson

Thursday night and Bishops second midweek game was against already relegated Ryton at Heritage Park.  Chris Lawson came into the starting line up in place of Wayne Clarke who was named on the substitutes bench.  A chilly but clear night as the game kicked off.

Playing against a team that had lost all but one of their 34 league games and in the process had scored only four goals in the last twelve games, and none at all in their previous four outings this month, Bishops were expecting a comfortable win if not an actual goal glut.

But the visitors gave a good account of themselves in the opening twenty minutes or so and posed an occasional threat to the Auckland goal.  The first was a powerful header from Bell that went just over and then the same player tested Peter Jeffries, who pulled off a couple of comfortable saves.

At the other end, Bishops frequently threatened the Ryton goal and visiting keeper Richardson saved Steven Turnbull's header from a Chris Bell cross.

A throw-in from Lawson into the box was flicked on by Stephen Salvin towards the far post, but with Bishops queuing up at the far post a covering defender made the all important clearance.

The Two Blues took the lead midway through the half when Wayne Gredziak 30 yards from goal expertly controlled a pass before crossing to the far post where Darren Atkinson volleyed home across goal and in off the post.

From then on the result did not look in any doubt even though Bishops wasted a string of chances before adding the second.

First Turnbull found himself all alone with the ball on the edge of the six yard box but shot wastefully wide.  Then a header from Salvin brought off an easy save for Richardson before Gredziak's header was directed well wide of the upright.

Despite a long range shot by the visitors' Anderson that flew just over the crossbar and a Lucas effort that was saved low down by Jeffries, it only seemed a matter of time before Bishops would get the cushion of a second goal, and it came four minutes before the break when Atkinson's header from a Gredziak cross baeat the Ryton keeper and covering defender on the goal line.

Still Ryton attacked and when Jeffries saved with his legs from a Bell shot you began to think that Ryton's losing streak would continue.

HT: Bishop Auckland 2, Ryton 0

Richardson was again called into action to deny Atkinson his hat-trick when he saved the winger's header from a Gredziak cross, but he could do little to stop the Bishops captain from getting on the score sheet just before the hour.

Salvin skipped past three defenders before unleashing a 30-yard shot that the keeper did well to get a hand to, but the ball still flew into the top corner for undoubtedly the best goal of the night.

But try as they might Bishops did not manage to get the fourth despite creating some wonderful chances.  The lively Atkinson was again foiled by the keeper, the rebound falling to Gredziak but the centre forward shot along the face of goal.

Still searching for his hat-trick, a well struck Atkinson shot was blocked by a player in Two Blues kit with the ball falling kindly to Richardson but he shot into the side netting.

Bishops were denied a clear penalty when referee Peart inexplicably waved away an appeal after Atkinson, looking for an angle to shoot at goal, had weaved and twisted into the penalty area before being unceremonially brought down.

But the Bishops winger could not blame anyone else for not adding his third of the night because he wasted two further chances to score when he sliced both shots wide, and when Gredziak side footed past the post from a position on the six yard line, you knew that he was not getting onto the score sheet.

The final whistle went shortly afterwards and Bishops had won consecutive midweek matches and secured three points that moves them above Jarrow Roofing and Billingham Synthonia to 16th in the league table, although it should be noted that potentially much tougher games lie ahead against Ashington and then Whitley Bay.

The win was Bishops fifth in six matches at Heritage Park and whilst the new ground could not yet be called a "fortress", after a slow start it seems like the Two Blues are getting used to their new surroundings.

FT: Bishop Auckland 3, Ryton 0 

BISHOP AUCKLAND 3 SUNDERLAND RCA 2

Northern League Division One

Tuesday, 15th March, 2011

Bishop Auckland 3, Sunderland RCA 2

MATCH REPORT

Bishops: Peter Jeffries / Chris Lawson / Darren Richardson / Philp Brumwell / Ian Dixon / Daniel O'Donnell (Karl Everitt 62mins) / Christopher Bell / Stephen Salvin (capt) / Wayne Gredziak / Steven Turnbull / Darren Atkinson (Adam Strong 71mins)

No rain since Saturday and no pitch inspection required as Bishops entertained Sunderland RCA on a foggy night at Heritage Park.

The entertainment kicked off with an extremely early red card for the visitors Richard Logan. Logan had already been involved in and altercation with Dixon before he decided to elbow the Bishops defender in the face off the ball on only 5 minutes.  The striker was then confined to the dressing room after taking out his frustrations on the Heritage Park furniture and fixtures and fittings.

Nothing in the game for the opening 20 minutes and on 18 minutes Gredziak stretched to a loose ball which RCA 'keeper Hoggeth grabbed, but took a blow to the face for his troubles. Yellow to Gredziak.

23 minutes and Bell and Lawson combined well to set up Salvin, but the captain was unable to get any power on the chance as he stretched 12 yards from goal.

Phil Brumwell was the second Bishops player into the book on 28 minutes after going in hard on a 50:50 challenge.

RCA missed a chance just after the half hour when Graydon turned to volley but the ball flew past the near post and into the fence behind the goal.  Bishops had the next chance when a long throw was knocked down to Atkinson who scuffed a shot well wide.

The visitors took the lead on 36 minutes when Walton glanced home from close range when Bishops defence failed to cut out a cross.

Bishops hit back immediately and the ball was cleared from the box to Brumwell who clipped it back over the top.  Lawson reacted first, chesting the ball down and stabbing home past the 'keeper from ten yards. 1-1.

A further three minutes and Gredziak centred to Bell who took the ball down and slotted past the advancing 'keeper to give Bishops the lead.

However, RCA equalised in injury time when a powerful shot from Walton beat Jeffries. There was still time for another injury time chance and Bell's corner was headed wide by Lawson.

HT Bishop Auckland 2, Sunderland RCA 2

Bishops took the lead again on 54 minutes when Atkinson intercepted a back pass and rounded the 'keeper.  Despite being just a couple of feet from the goal-line and 20 yards from goal he slotted home beautifully from an impossible angle to make it 3-2.

59 minutes and Bell carried the ball out of defence and ran through before passing to Gredziak who shot just wide.

Karl Everitt replaced Daniel O'Donnell on 62 minutes and Adam Strong replaced Darren Atkinson on 71 minutes.

RCA came close to equalising on 73 minutes when Turnbull was dispossessed but Walton blazed wide from a great position.

Darren Richardson mistimed a tackle on 74 minutes and picked up a yellow card. Two minutes later and Jeffries struggled to deal with a Jones cross but pushed the ball clear and Lawson cleared to safety.

Chris Lawson missed a great chance to put the game beyond RCA when a Bell corner dropped perfectly to him eight yards from goal but the defender headed fresh air.

Another chance a minute later when Strong found the ball at his feet inside the six yard box but a tap to his ankles disrupted the flow and the ball was hacked away.

Adam Strong continued to cause trouble down the left and on 86 minutes the substituted created havoc with a low cross which Turnbull guided goalbound, but Hoggeth saved well, pushing the ball out for a corner.

88 minutes and Salvin picked up an inexplicable yellow as Hoggeth dropped the ball while advancing out of the goal.  Despite making no contact with the player, Bishops captain was booked.

RCA were down to nine men on 89 minutes when Ellison picked up a second yellow for a clear foul on Richardson.

Gredziak missed a fantastic chance to settle nerves on 91 minutes and Turnbull was unlucky to dink a shot over the bar on 92 minutes, and despite playing five minuted of added time Bishops held on to the three points.

FT Bishop Auckland 3, Sunderland RCA 2

The win lifts Bishops to 18th above Stokesley and West Allotment, with Ryton the next visitors to Heritage Park in two days time.

BISHOP AUCKLAND 3 STOKESLEY 5

Northern League Division One

Saturday, 12th March, 2011

Bishop Auckland 3, Stokesley 5

MATCH REPORT

Bishops: Peter Jeffries / Wayne Clarke / Darren Richardson / Philp Brumwell (Darren Atkinson, 76 mins) / Ian Dixon / Karl Everitt / Christopher Bell (Adam Strong, 76 mins) / Stephen Salvin (capt) / Wayne Gredziak / Daniel O’Donnell (Steven Turnbull, 52 mins) / Dan Hawkins

After three successive victories at Heritage Park, Bishops returned home to play fellow strugglers Stokesly in a relegation ‘six pointer’. Philip Brumwell returned to the starting line up at the expense of Darren Atkinson, who was named on the bench. After more overnight rain the pitch, which was showing signs of yet more remedial work, passed a late inspection.

Kicking towards the West Stand, the visitors were out of the blocks quickly and were three up within the opening quarter of an hour.

After his initial shot was blocked, Hume shot low past Peter Jeffries to open the scoring after five minutes and Wells doubled the visitors’ lead in the tenth after Stewart was initially thwarted by the Bishops’ keeper.

Five minutes later, Hume added his second when a free kick on the right wing floated into the box only to be headed backwards by a defender straight into the forwards’ path enabling him to score from close range.

A shell shocked Bishops tried desperately to get back into the game and when Wayne Gredziak flicked on a throw in which was launched into the box, Dan Hawkins was quick to react but his guided deflection went wide of the post. The same player launched a powerful shot at goal minutes later but he failed to hit the target.

There were goals and penalties galore in a frantic five minute finish to the first half. First, a left wing corner by Wayne Clarke was met well by Hawkins, and his flick header reduced the deficit to two.

Two minutes later, Bishops got their second from the penalty spot after Gredziak was pulled down just inside the area. The centre forward calmly converted to take his penalty tally to three from three.

But the action was not over quite yet, and when Hume lent backwards into an unfortunate Bishops defender and sat on the ground, young referee Fyvie was quick to even up the penalty count, and for the second successive Saturday, two penalties were awarded at Heritage Park. Liley stepped up and scored low past Jeffries to give Stokesley a two goal lead.

If the penalty award seemed somewhat bizarre, the decision by referee Fyvie to penalise Chris Bell for almost having his head kicked off by a Stokesley high boot left many observers incredulous.

HT: Bishop Auckland 2, Stokesley 4

If Bishops’ chairman Terry Jackson found difficulty gaining access to the hospitality at Norton in midweek, he fell foul of the closing of the function room doors at the recommencement of play and had to take the long way round back to his seat. Although the fact that he held the winning raffle ticket brought a little spring to his step.

The rain turned heavy after the interval and began to turn certain parts of the pitch into a quagmire meaning both teams had to readjust to the changing conditions.

It seemed like the next goal would be vital and when Bishops scored it in the 65th minute, hopes were high that they could go on to get something from the game. Darren Richardson got the decisive touch after a couple of other shots had been saved or blocked.

However, the home side were soon down to ten men when Karl Everitt became the first Bishop Auckland player to be sent off at heritage Park. Having already been booked needlessly in the first half for kicking the ball away, he could have no complaints about receiving a second yellow for stopping a quick Stokesley attack in its tracks.

With fifteen minutes to go, hopes of a Bishops fightback just about evaporated when ex-Bishop player Stewart’s deflected shot crashed off the underside of the crossbar, bounced on the goal line and into the side netting to restore the visitors’ two goal advantage.

Bishops’ manager Colin Myers rang the changes and one of his substitutes almost paid instant dividends. The introduction of Adam Strong added fresh impetus to the ten men and having been sent clean through, his first shot was parried by keeper Pearson and the sub looked certain to score but his follow up effort was headed off the line.

Pearson denied Strong again in the closing stages after the Bishops player had initially gone around him, but the keeper recovered quickly to snuff out the chance.

This disappointing defeat means that Stokesley leapfrog over Bishops and for the first time this season, the Two Blues find themselves occupying a relegation place. Games in hand are one thing, but these must be converted to points on the board. Weather permitting, Bishops will play six more home games in the next fortnight, and these must not be fritted away.

FT: Bishop Auckland 3, Stokesley 5

— DE

NEWSLETTERS UPDATED

The last few Newsletter pdf are now on the website.  Click through the "Newsletters" menu.

You can get the BAFC Newsletter e-mailed directly to your e-mail inbox by signing up for the newsletter mailing list.

FIXTURES COMPLETED WITH 30th APRIL CONCLUSION

Bishops final two fixtures have been slotted in to Easter Monday, 25th April at home vs Ryton and finally Saturday 30th April at home vs West Allotment Celtic.

All fixtures now on the website.

NORTON & STOCKTON ANCIENTS 3 BISHOP AUCKLAND 0

Northern League Division One

Wednesday, 9th March 2011

 

Norton & Stockton Ancients 3, Bishop Auckland 0

MATCH REPORT

  

Bishops: Peter Jeffries / Wayne Clarke / Darren Atkinson / Darren Atkinson / Chris Lawson / Ian Dixon / Daniel O’Donnell (Lewis Brown, 85 mins) / Dan Hawkins / Stephen Salvin (capt) / Wayne Gredziak / Karl Everitt (Steven Turnbull, 26 mins / Darren Richardson

  

Bishop Auckland travelled to the Norton Sports Complex looking to arrest an away game losing streak that stood at nine against a team who had comfortably beaten them 0-4 at Heritage Park back in January.

 

With Phil Brumwell still suffering the effects of a virus, Karl Everitt and Chris Lawson returned to the starting line-up to replace the injured Arran Wearmouth and Steven Turnbull — who was on a substitutes bench which included Chris Bell (having passed a fitness test before kick off) and new signing Owen Lancaster.

 

A clear night with a cold wind blowing across the ground as Bishops’ supporters attempted to navigate their way safely behind the Norton goal without falling into the trench that surrounded a new development.

 

After the excellent performance and result against league leaders Shildon on Saturday, the first half here was a pretty drab affair with few chances at either end.

 

Although Norton had the best of these, Peter Jeffries continued his fine form against the Railwaymen at the weekend by making a couple of fine saves. In one, he could only parry Jamie Clarke’s shot, but Wayne Clarke was on hand to make a clearance off the line to avert the danger.

 

Bishops had a couple of decent chances at the other end but failed to trouble Provett in the home goal.

 

In the first, Wayne Gredziak collected the ball in the centre circle, turned and played a well weighted pass through to Dan Hawkins, who let fly from about twenty yards. Unfortunately, his well struck shot flew about a foot over the crossbar.

 

In the second, Wayne Clarke’s corner was flicked on by Stephen Salvin towards Hawkins, and he cheekily back heeled his effort just wide of the post.

 

Having received a nasty knock, Everitt limped off the field before the half-hour to be replaced by Steven Turnbull.

 

HT: Norton & Stockton Ancients 0, Bishop Auckland 0

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

If the first-half was a somewhat dour affair, the half-time interval was packed with incident and humour as Terry Jackson unsuccessfully attempted to gain access into the officials’ refreshment room without his pass. With the local on the door strictly enforcing the rule that ‘All passes must be shown’, the chairman had to source his beverage from elsewhere, but was equal to the task.

 

Back to the action (must we?), and as the Bishops defend deeper and deeper, Norton took the lead in the 56th minute when a poor shot was only half-stopped and Jamie Clarke (who else?) pounced on to the loose ball and slotted it into the net past Jeffries.

 

Bishops had a good shout for a penalty turned down by referee McCallum when a defender moved his arm to elbow a Gredziak header away from danger, and within minutes, the Two Blues found themselves two down when Earl crossed into the box for substitute Gott to control the ball with his very first touch and score with his second.

 

By the time Earl made it three from an Owens’ pass four minutes later, the game was already well beyond the Bishops, who managed to play the whole ninety minutes without registering one attempt on target.

 

Even before the final whistle, the away supporters had abandoned their customary place behind the opposition goal, prompting some to wonder when that last happened.

 

Speaking to the Northern Echo after the game, manager Colin Myers said: “We sat too deep in the second half, and let them come at us. I was annoyed with the second half performance, some players didn’t listen to instructions”.

 

A poor performance, which deteriorated in the second half, means that Bishops are now fourth bottom and only goal difference keeps the Two Blues out of a relegation place, although Stokesley have played five games more. Saturday’s game, a relegation “six pointer” is one that Auckland must win…

 

FT: Norton & Stockton Ancients 3, Bishop Auckland 0

 

— DE

BISHOP AUCKLAND 2, SHILDON 1

Northern League Division One

Saturday 5th March 2011

Bishop Auckland 2, Shildon 1

MATCH REPORT

Bishops: Peter Jeffries / Wayne Clarke / Darren Richardson / Darren Atkinson / Ian Dixon / Daniel O’Donnell / Arran Wearmouth (Adam Strong (70 mins) / Stephen Salvin (capt) / Wayne Gredziak / Steven Turnbull / Dan Hawkins

After two successive victories at Heritage Park, Bishops returned home to play league leaders Shildon on a pitch that was showing the effects of substantial drainage work. Gone was the luscious grass to be replaced by a patchwork of returfed areas, mud and sand, to give the surface a somewhat unsightly appearance. Despite the conditions, both teams were keen to play, and having passed two pitch inspections, finally another game at the new ground.

A ‘Gentleman’s Agreement’ between the two clubs meant that recent signings, Philip Brumwell and Karl Everitt did not take part against their former club, but Bishops welcomed into the starting line-up new signing Daniel O’Donnell, who has Scottish Premier League experience with St Johnstone, straight in at number six (Sorry, couldn’t resist it!).

In the first-half, the Railwaymen were attacking the West Stand and put the Bishops goal under severe pressure. The Shildon website proudly boasts that their Keith Finch is the best keeper in the Northern League, but Bishop fans have long known that the best custodian by far is our own Peter Jeffries.

Fortunately for the Two Blues, Jeffries was in superb form and made some stunning saves with his hands, his body, his legs, and on one occasion, his face. Each time the Railwaymen threatened, he was equal to the task and in the opening forty-five foiled Johnson on three separate occasions, and when Moore took advantage of a miskick by Atkinson, Jeffries superbly saved from point blank range.

Other Shildon shots flew wide and over and on a couple of occasions, Bishops defenders put their bodies in the way to make important blocks.

At the other end, keeper Finch was certainly underworked, but he calmly collected Dan Hawkins’ weak shot after the forward had managed to shake off defender Keegan.

A good move down the left involving Darren Richardson and Hawkins brought Wayne Gredziak into the action and his lay off to Hawkins allowed him to shoot at goal, but his effort was blocked away for a corner.

After a succession of fouls perpetrated against the youngster by different Shildon players all over the pitch, Arran Wearmouth was a little unlucky to be the first player to see the yellow card for a mistimed tackle.

Undoubtedly Shildon had the majority of goal scoring chances, but their inability to take them would prove costly after the break.

HT: Bishop Auckland 0, Shildon 0

Within seconds of the restart, the Two Blues were ahead. Bishops straightaway attacked down the right and when the cross came into the box, Agbatar sliced his attempted clearance and the ball rolled over the line with Hawkins in close attendance. From the main stand it looked like the forward had supplied the finishing touch, but those behind the goal were quick to credit it against the defender.

Shildon made a couple of substitutions as they searched for an equaliser, but again Jeffries was on hand, first to deny a Hughes header, then later to bravely dive at the feet of Garvie to snuff out the chance.

But it was Bishops who would score the all-important second. With fifteen minutes to go, Steven Turnbull was held in the box and referee Gordon had no hesitation in awarding the penalty. Gredziak stepped up and shot low past Finch to take his record this season to two from two. The second goal gave the home side some precious breathing room and the 401 crowd the thought that an upset really could be on the cards.

However, with the assessor in the stand, the referee soon evened up the penalty count when Hollingsworth tumbled in the box and Chapman’s kick flew past Jeffries’ hand to give the Railwaymen hope of a come back. The penalty award was the first to an away team at Heritage Park.

But any hope of a come back was to change within minutes when Moore’s elbow came into contact with Gredziak and the visiting player was shown a straight red card. The ten men threatened little in the minutes that remained and Bishops held out comfortably enough for the win and a very valuable three points.

The win leapfrogs Bishops over Stokesley, but with West Allotment also winning, the one point gap to the relegation places remains.

Bishop Auckland boss Colin Myers told the Northern Echo: "Our keeper, Peter Jeffries, had one of those ‘worldy’ days. All of our players rolled up their sleeves and battled, which was exactly what was needed on that pitch".

FT: Bishop Auckland 2, Shildon 1

— DE

BAFC BOARD ANNOUNCEMENT

ANNOUNCEMENT FROM BISHOP AUCKLAND F.C. LTD.

The Board of Bishop Auckland FC Ltd are delighted to announce the following appointments:


Kim Fryer joins the Board as Commercial Director. Kim has been working for the Club since May 2010 and has played a major part in helping the Club make (and consolidate the move) to its new home at Heritage Park.

Rob Bowron has been working with the Club for some years in his position as Secretary of partner organisation Bishop Auckland St Mary’s and was also a member of the Project Team who organised the move into the new ground. Rob joins the Board as Community Football Development Director.

Shaun Stuart has been working with the Club since 2009 and has significant experience in working with local businesses in the area. Shaun will join the Board as Business Development Director.

Tony Duffy who has been a Director of the Limited Company since its incorporation will be standing down both as Director and Club Secretary at the end of the current playing season. Tony’s involvement with the Club spans 30 years and he leaves with our thanks and good wishes. He has been a magnificent servant.

BEDLINGTON TERRIERS 3 BISHOP AUCKLAND 0

Northern League Division One
Wednesday 2nd March 2011

Bedlington Terriers 3  Bishop Auckland 0

Bishops: Peter Jeffries / Chris Lawson / Darren Atkinson / Wayne Clarke / Ian Dixon / Karl Everitt / Arran Wearmouth / Stephen Salvin (capt) / Wayne Gredziak / Steven Turnbull / Darren Richardson

Bishops finally returned to action one month and seven postponements (five at home) since their previous outing, a convincing 4-1 win at Heritage Park against Tow Law Town.

The Two Blues welcomed back captain Stephen Salvin, but were without Phil Brumwell (virus), Daniel Hawkins and Adam Strong (both work). Chris Bell failed a late fitness test and so warmed a seat on a bench which included the unkitted Adam Furness and Steven West, leaving Lewis Brown the only really possible substitute.

A cold night in prospect at Welfare Park, where the announcer thoughtfully informed the crowd of the risk of frost later, and offered cushions to those in the seats for the relief of those suffering with haemorrhoids.

The hosts, who had drawn once and lost three of their last four outings, were soon on the attack and Phillipson’s long range effort warmed Peter Jeffries’ hands, but Bishops belied their long lay off and engaged in some good passing moves and frequently threatened the Bedlington goal.

A free kick on the right was flicked on by Salvin, but Wayne Gredziak’s effort flew over the bar. The centre forward, who had a brief two goal spell at Terriers during mid season, looked eager to cause damage to the home defence.

Combining well with a rampaging Arran Wearmouth down the right enabled the youngster to twist and turn his defender before crossing into the box. Salvin flicked his header onward but there was no one at the far post to convert the chance.

Bishops more than matched their opponents for the opening thirty minutes and enjoyed some good attacking possession play but Terriers were quick on the break and scored two goals just after the half-hour which changed the complexion of the game.

The first came after 31 minutes when the defence failed to take one of a number of opportunities to clear the danger and when the ball fell to Shadran, his shot found the net despite Jeffries getting a hand to it.

Three minutes later Bishops were two down having failed to deal with some route one football. A goal kick from Newton was controlled by Shadran, and he ran clear to score under the advancing Bishops’ keeper.

Bishops tried to get back into the game quickly with the two Darren’s combing well down the right wing and bringing Gredziak into the action, but no one was waiting to meet his cross at the far post.

The away side had the woodwork to thank for going in at half-time just two down when Shadran’s effort thundered off the underside of the crossbar to be cleared only to Benjamin, whose shot thumped off the far post.

HT: Bedlington Terriers 2, Bishop Auckland 0

It was the same score at the interval in the corresponding fixture last season, and Bishops fought back to level before Bedlington scored a third to take the spoils, so everyone knew that the next goal would make all the difference.

It could have fell to the visitors when Gredziak fed the advancing Darren Richardson in the box, but having looked up to see the assistant had not raised his flag, his low effort was saved by keeper Newton.

But the third goal came just after the hour at the other end when substitute Convert found Benjamin, who headed in his 32nd league goal of the season.

Lawson joined Steven Turnbull (who was making his 50th appearance in Auckland colours) in the referee’s notebook and there was a couple of occasions when the referee could have shown the defender a second yellow. In one of these, Terriers defender Blackstone did his best dying swan impression and talk behind the goal quickly turned to Natalie Portman’s Oscar winning performance in the film Black Swan.

Back on the field, Lawson escaped further punishment and Bishops failed to punish the home defence from any of the numerous chances that they created.

Wearmouth’s run down the right found Richardson inside who fed Salvin in space, but his shot on target was palmed away for a corner, from which Lawson headed over the bar unchallenged.

Gredziak latched on to a Jeffries goal kick and raced towards goal from the half-way line, but his shot flew over the bar and out into the streets beyond.

Richardson and Wearmouth combined well again, but Newton managed to save the latter’s goal bound effort with his feet. The goal would simply not come, and with West Allotment picking up three valuable points the day before at bottom club Ryton, Bishop Auckland find themselves fourth bottom, just one point above the drop zone, with the visit of the league leaders Shildon to look forward to on Saturday.

FT: Bedlington Terriers 3, Bishop Auckland 0

— DE

SEASON EXTENDED AND REVISED FIXTURES

Bishop Auckland FC's Northern League fixtures have now been extended to 23rd April.

Fixtures against Jarrow Roofing (Away), Penrith (Away), Spennymoor Town (Home) and Dunston UTS (Home) have been scheduled into April, and the home game vs Whitley Bay has been moved (perhaps temporarily) to Monday 21st March.

CAR LAUNCH & QUIZ ON THURSDAY

Springfield Motors are holding a new Car Launch at Heritage Park on Thursday from 4pm.  All supporters are welcome to attend.

Then on the evening there will be the monthly BAFC Quiz Night.  Quiz starts at 8pm, with the bar open from 7pm.  The usual cash prizes plus every winning team member will get a free car valet courtesy of Springfield Motors.

The usual £5 entry fee which includes hot food.  Everyone welcome.

MATCH POSTPONED TODAY

Another day of inactivity today, with Bishops scheduled match at Jarrow Roofing BCA postponed due to a waterlogged pitch.

Results elsewhere left Bishops stable in 18th place as West Allotment and Stokesley both lost and missed the opportunity to overtake.

NPL INSPECTION

Heritage Park received its visit from the ground inspectors from the FA and Northern Premier League today.

Complimentary comments from the visitors, in a very positive visit.  The full report will come in the post in a few days time.

LAST CHANCE TO BUY

The last 40 brick spaces on the original BAFC Supporters' Wall at Heritage Park are now available to buy.

The Supporters Wall in the foyer at Heritage Park has been filling up fast since bricks went on sale in August 2010. The wall was designed to hold approximately 280 single inscribed bricks, though many people have chosen to record their message for posterity on a double, and in one case on a triple brick. Now only 40 spaces remain, and a few of these have already been sold.

                                                     37 Spaces Remaining 15/2/11

If you would like to add your inscription to the supporters wall you can download a form and even pay on-line HERE .

You can see new pictures of the Supporters' Wall or to see the inscriptions on the Virtual Wall  HERE .

SAINSBURY'S ACTIVE KIDS

Bishop Auckland FC will be collecting Sainsbury's Active Kids vouchers on behalf of Bishop Auckland St.Mary's Juniors FC.

You can drop your vouchers off in the office, or at the bar in the function room on matchdays.

Active Kids vouchers are available free with all purchases at all Sainsbury's.

 

PITCH WORK UPDATE

More work going on with the pitch this week and this week's special feature was the big machine pictured below.

This machine sends a probe deep under the surface and fires in high pressure air to lift the pitch substrata, open up the soil structure and inject a water inhibitor into the ground at the same time, which should allow water to pass through the surface more readily and subsequently drain the pitch more effectively.

The machine was busy all day Wednesday with further work on Thursday which should give some long term benefits to the pitch drainage.

 

NEW MARCH FIXTURES

Midweek games have finally been scheduled for March. 

These currently include 2nd Bedlington Terriers (A), 9th Norton & Stockton Ancients (A), 22nd Whitley Bay (H)

SUPPORTERS' WALL

The newest batch of bricks has been added to the Supporters' Wall at Heritage Park. After delays at Christmas due to the snow when the bricks went on their holidays at various depots between Bristol and Middlesbrough, we missed our planned date for their addition to the wall. Thankfully Kenny and Andy our star builders cleared their diaries for us and were at the ground bright and early this morning to complete the latest phase of the Supporters' Wall. A great big thanks to them for their efforts.

Looking at the space left on the original Supporrters' Wall, their is room for 40 more bricks (with double bricks counting as two). These spaces will be going on sale in the next couple of days. Watch this space!

More pictures on the Virtual Wall   page.

Below: BAFC Supporters' Wall - The mortar is still damp but will dry out over the next few days.

BISHOP AUCKLAND FC NOW ON FACEBOOK

Bishop Auckland FC now has a Facebook account.

There's a link at he foot of the homepage or you can get to the page via http://www.facebook.com/?ref=logo#!/pages/Bishop-Auckland-FC/190633684289717

Also at John Bishopafc. http://www.facebook.com/pages/Bishop-Auckland-FC/190633684289717#!/profile.php?id=720905397

Make the club your friend !

BAY MATCH POSTPONED

Another disappointing postponement on Saturday.  Whilst parts of the pitch looked heavy after Tuesday it was the heavy rain of Thursday night followed by Friday's all day drizzle then the heavy rain that came down with the gale force winds on Friday night that did the damage.

Early Saturday morning and there was standing water in several areas of the pitch and despite the efforts of a team of volunteers it was clear when the referee arrived at 11.30 that the game would be off.

 

 

WEBSITE SPONSORED BY HATHAWAY ROOFING

Big welcome to Hathaway Roofing who are sponsoring the official BAFC website for 2011.

Hathaway have supported the Bishops for at least two decades and are now our near neighbours since Bishop Auckland FC returned to the town, so it's great to re-establish this partnership in 2011.

Many thanks to all those at Hathaway.

 

 

BISHOP AUCKLAND 4 TOW LAW TOWN 1

Northern League Division One

Tuesday 1st February 2011

Bishop Auckland 4, Tow Law Town 1

Bishops: Peter Jeffries / Chris Lawson / Darren Atkinson / Philip Brumwell / Ian Dixon / Karl Everitt (Lewis Brown, 71 mins) / Christopher Bell (Arran wearmouth, 67 mins) / Steven Turnbull (capt) / Wayne Gredziak / Darren Richardson / Daniel Hawkins

After two defeats on the road, Bishops returned to Heritage Park and, for the second home game in succession, scored four goals as they claimed all three points in the fight against relegation. Manager Colin Myers named an unchanged team for the first time in 17 games, and hopes were high that a performance like the one last time out at Spennymoor Town would this time be rewarded.

Tow Law kicked off towards the West Stand but after kicking the ball straight into touch were soon on the backfoot. A good move involving Chris Lawson and Chris Bell down the right wing saw an attempted pass through to Wayne Gredziak in the box cut out by defender Watkinson. Bell took the resulting corner and his inswinging kick hit the face of the crossbar before being cleared.

With Bell looking lively on the right wing, Dan Hawkins looked to get into the game down the left and when he came inside with the ball, his well struck shot was palmed behind by keeper Robinson. The Tow Law keeper was called in to action by a surging Darren Richardson through the middle, but he was equal to the task and denied the chance by bravely smothering the ball at the midfielders feet.

With the visitors offering little up front, Bishops were able to pile on the pressure and from a corner that ex-Bishop player Killeen tried to clear, the home side were awarded a penalty when his sliced kick struck the arm of the Tow Law’s hapless captain, Tobin. With Steven Turnbull missing the last two spot kicks, Bell took this one, but the keeper guessed right to make a good save and then exceeded that by superbly saving Hawkins’ follow up.

A long clearance by Peter Jeffries was headed backwards by a defender under pressure from Gredziak who was fouled in the box by the Tow Law keeper. The referee showed the yellow card before Gredziak sent Robinson the wrong way to open the scoring in the 26th minute and convert Bishops’ first penalty in four attempts.

The Two Blues were looking for their second immediately and within a minute, Hawkins headed a Turnbull cross back across goal and with the keeper flat footed, the striker was unlucky to see his header hit the upright. It was the first of three chances for Hawkins to increase the lead but his wickedly dipping 25 yard shot went over the bar and Robinson pulled off another good save to deny him again.

But Bishops were not to be denied and they scored their second three minutes before the half time whistle. A Bell corner from the right was headed onto the bar by Lawson and after a bit of head tennis in the six yard box, Turnbull beat everyone else to head home from inches out.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

HT: Bishop Auckland 2, Tow Law Town 0

The next goal after the break would be crucial and as expected, the visitors were keen to get back into the match. Hewitson was rightly booked after a crunching tackle on Hawkins and substitute Wilson was fortunate not to see yellow when he made a good impression of a petulant teenager running towards the official with his arms waving around.

Jeffries was called on to make a good save low down from Hewitson and almost immediatley, the Two Blues had got the decisive third. Bell ran into the box from the right and rolled a perfect low cross along the six yard line towards the waiting Gredziak. Sensing the danger, Robson attempted the clearance, but his effort nestled in the bottom corner of the net and Bishops were three up after 54 minutes.

The fourth came four minutes later. A cross from the left wing by Hawkins was prodded home from close range by Lawson to the delight of the home crowd.

After Bell was booked for ignoring the referee’s whistle for an offside decision, and a couple of substitutions from both sides, the Lawyers came more and more into the game. A long range shot from Watkinson that dipped over Jeffries and into the net started a twenty minute period when Bishops switched off and cruised for the remainder of the game. Nonetheless, Tow Law were unable to create many further chances and the game was won.

Speaking after the game, Colin Myers thought the third goal was crucial saying: "We got the third goal nice and early in the second half, and that took the pressure off us. We weren’t brilliant in the last 20 minutes, but by then the game was won. I was worried when we missed the penalty after 20 minutes. I thought it was going to be one of those nights when the keeper was going to have a worldy".

The win lifts Bishops up two places in the league table, and four points clear of relegation.

FT: Bishop Auckland 4, Tow Law Town 1

PITCH VOLUNTEERS UPDATE

Thanks to those of you who have offered your services to become part of the pitch maintenance team.

If you would like to help there's an open session at Heritage Park on Friday at 1pm to give some quick guidance on what needs to be done and when.  Just turn up and ask for Steve.

Everyone welcome.  No previous experience necessary.

QUIZ NIGHT - THURSDAY 27th - HERITAGE PARK

Bishop Auckland FC are holding another quiz night on Thursday night at Heritage Park.

Doors open at 7pm.  £5 entry which includes hot food.  Cash prizes.

Everyone welcome. 

SPENNYMOOR TOWN 2 BISHOP AUCKLAND 1

Northern League Division One

Tuesday 26th January 2011

Spennymoor Town 2 Bishop Auckland 1

Bishops: Peter Jeffries / Chris Lawson / Darren Atkinson / Philip Brumwell / Ian Dixon / Karl Everitt (Arran Wearmouth, 89 mins) / Christopher Bell / Steven Turnbull (capt) / Wayne Gredziak / Darren Richardson / Daniel Hawkins

With Stephen Salvin still injured and Adam Emson unavailable, Colin Myers made two changes from the team that started the Auckland derby. Chris Lawson and Dan Hawkins came in at the expense of Emson and Dan Olusoga for the derby at the Brewery Field. The pitch was in excellent condition and despite a few showers, it held up very well.

Bishops attacked the goal at the top of the hill in the first half and with Daniel Hawkins making surging runs up the left wing they always looked dangerous on the break. There was action at both ends in the opening skirmishes.

Steven Turnbull blazed over the bar and then Hawkins curled his shot wide of the post for the Bishops when a centre to Wayne Gredziak looked a better option. A Bell corner from the left was only partially cleared and as the cross came back into the box, Gredziak headed just wide of the upright.

At the other end, Peter Jeffries pulled off a tremendous save from Johnston when he was through one-on-one with the Bishop’s keeper, and he was in action again and at full stretch parried away English’s curling free kick.

There was a scare on the quarter hour when Philip Brumwell misjudged a long ball over his head and deliberately handled the ball to foil Cogdon. Whilst Brumwell was undoubtedly the last man, the fact that the Moors striker was heading away from goal meant that the referee showed the yellow card whilst Bishop’s supporters feared the worst.

Spennymoor took the lead eight minutes from the interval when referee Dicicco awarded what looked like a harsh penalty for a "foul" on Ruddy. Capper made no mistake from the spot kick as Jeffries guessed right but couldn’t get a touch.

With Hawkins continuing to make his surging runs and Gredziak looking lively up front, Bishops posed a threat throughout the half, but the home side certainly had more chances in front of goal and probably deserved their lead, although there was some question about the decision.

HT: Spennymoor Town 1, Bishop Auckland 0

Kicking down the hill, Bishops looked to get back in the game quickly after the interval. A long pass down the slope saw Gredziak beat his marker and keeper Bishop to the ball, but the cavalry were slow to catch up allowing the defence to get back and when the cross came into the middle it was cleared to safety.

A Chris Lawson cross from the right was cut out by a defender but the ball fell to Gredziak, but his shot was blocked and from the rebound, Turnbull again shot over.

Within minutes, Spennymoor where awarded their second penalty of the night, and there was no argument about this one. Ruddy twisted and turned Darren Atkinson but as the defender stayed on his feet and would not be drawn into making the challenge, a second defender arrived and clattered straight into the home striker. This time, Capper’s spot kick went wide of the left hand post.

There was a good shout for a penalty at the other end almost straight after. As a free kick was played into the box towards Gredziak, he was pulled to the floor by defender Mason, but incredibly the referee waved play on.

After Jeffries made another excellent save, this time to deny Dodds after he sprinted past two Auckland defenders, Hawkins shot over the bar as he twisted superbly in the Moors box and shot after collecting a Bell corner.

Another convincing Bishop’s penalty shout was waved away in the last quarter of an hour when Turnbull was first pushed and then tripped over as a corner came into the box. It seemed quite evident at this point that the referee was not seeking to even the penalty count out despite there being good grounds to do so.

Ex Two Blues keeper Simon Bishop made a superb save when he denied Lawson’s powerful near post header from a corner on the right and within seconds, Moors broke and got the all important second goal as Capper’s cross was forced home by Smith from close range.

Already in injury time, Arran Wearmouth came off the bench to replace Karl Everitt and there was just time for Gredziak to cause the home fans heart’s to flutter. Bell floated in a cross from the right and as the Moors defence stood and watched, Gredziak ghosted past, onside, and glanced his header into the net of the underside of the crossbar.

Any thoughts that Bishop’s might get the point that their performance deserved were quashed as Spennymoor held out quite comfortably in the couple of minutes injury time that was played despite the home side’s obvious attempts as time wasting, lengthy treatment of Harrison and long slow walks off the field by players being substituted.

As the final whistle blew, much to the relief of the home side, Bishop’s supporters gave their team lengthy applause at the performance and effort that had been shown against the favourites for the Northern League title.

FT: Spennymoor Town 2, Bishop Auckland 1

Speaking to the Northern Echo after the game, Spennymoor manager Jason Ainsley thought that the match was a great advert for Northern League football. "It was played at a good tempo and commitment from both sides. We controlled the majority of the game and missed several very good chances most notably Steve Capper’s penalty in the second half. I felt if we had scored then we might have gone on to win more comfortably, but credit to Bishops who never gave in and came more into it as the game went on and put in several dangerous crosses which we had to deal with. I do think we tired in the last 15 minutes but I think that was because of the exertions in Bristol on Saturday. I think Colin will be happy with his players’ endeavour as they certainly played their part in a great derby".

Bishop Auckland manager Colin Myers, who has transfer listed Adam Emson and Dan Olusoga said: "We had a cracking second half performance, and could have got something out of the game".

WEST AUCKLAND 4 BISHOP AUCKLAND 1

Northern League Division One

Saturday 22nd January 2011

West Auckland Town 4 Bishop Auckland 1

Bishops: Peter Jeffries / Christopher Bell / Darren Atkinson / Philip Brumwell / Ian Dixon / Karl Everitt / Daniel Olusoga (Arran Wearmouth, 81 mins) / Steven Turnbull (capt) / Wayne Gredziak / Darren Richardson / Adam Emson (Daniel Hawkins, 83 mins)

Bishops returned to Darlington Road to play their former landlords on a sunny Saturday afternoon. The pitch was heavy with both goalmouths very muddy and it would cut up very badly as the game progressed. New signings Philip Brumwell (from Shildon) and Ian Dixon (from Jarrow Roofing) were named in the starting line-up in place of Wayne Clarke and Chris Lawson.

The visitors kicked off uphill and threatened the home goal almost from the start. An Adam Emson cross into the box was met by defender Green whose lay off was inexplicably picked up by keeper Hanson. After a delay to position the ball on the edge of the six yard box and the wall on the goal line, Gredziak laid off the indirect free kick to Christopher Bell who blazed his shot over the bar.

West spurned a couple of good chances before they took the lead in the 13th minute. A long ball from Stephenson found Moffat at the far post and his looping header went over Jeffries and nestled in the bottom corner.

Bishop almost got back into the game in a very unlikely way. West keeper Hanson rolled a back pass wide of goal and his delaying enabled Olusoga to close him down but the custodian was lucky to see his rebounded goal kick fly past the left hand post.

Shortly afterwards, both Moffat and Tymon shot wide of goal and then Peter Jeffries made a good stop to deny Gibson.

But Bishops began to enjoy some possession and pressure and three minutes before the break they got a well deserved equaliser. Steven Turnbull was cynically brought down by Renshaw and from the resulting free kick, keeper Hanson crumbled under pressure and the ball pinged around a few times before former West striker Olusoga got the important touch to score his first goal in Auckland colours.

HT: West Auckland 1, Bishop Auckland 1

After coming back so well to level the scores at the interval, hopes were high that the Bishops would get something out of the game but within a minute of the restart West regained their lead. The visitors cheaply gave the ball away in midfield and while expecting a referee’s whistle the never came for a foul on Tymon, Moffat took advantage and found Hindmarsh, whose shot went in under Jeffries.

Although Bishops enjoyed plenty of possession, few chances were created and the home side looked more likely to add to their tally. Moffat again tormented the Two Blues defenders before crossing from the right to the far post, but he overhit his cross and the ball bounced on the top of the bar whilst substitute Banks lurked unmarked at the far post ready to apply the finishing touch.

Jeffries saved well from substitute Lunn, but West were not to be denied the comfort a third goal would bring. Ten minutes from time a long ball from Moffat found Banks in the clear and he slotted home past Jeffries.

West added a fourth deep in injury time when Moffat scored once more. Jeffries did well to bravely dive at his feet and make the save from Bishop’s tormentor, but the striker was up quickest and he managed to shoot past Dixon on the line.

The final whistle went soon afterwards and West keeper Hanson kissed his club’s badge and helpfully informed the Bishop fans behind the goal, "There’s only one team in West!". Think he might be right about that! The two teams meet again next month at Heritage Park.

HT: West Auckland 4, Bishop Auckland 1

Manager Colin Myers was very encouraged by the Bishop’s performance and told the Northern Echo, "It wasn’t a 4-1 game really, because I thought we rolled our sleeves up and worked hard. We passed the ball around well. At half time, I really thought that we would get something out of the game, but they scored straight away. But the experienced players we brought into the club over the last few days, Phil Brumwell and Ian Dixon, made a big difference to us. We’ve been missing that".

PITCH VOLUNTEERS NEEDED

BAFC are looking for volunteers to help the stadium team with some day to day pitch maintenance duties on an ongoing basis.

The work involves simply replacing divots at half time and on the day following matches.  Full training will be provided.

If you think you can assist with this, please contact the club via the website with some contact details.

BISHOP AUCKLAND 4 ESH WINNING 0

Northern League Division One

Tuesday 18th January 2011

Bishop Auckland 4 Esh Winning 0

Bishops: Peter Jeffries / Christopher Bell / Darren Atkinson / Wayne Clarke / Chris Lawson / Karl Everitt / Daniel Olusoga (Arran Wearmouth, 85 mins) / Steven Turnbull / Wayne Gredziak (Dan Hawkins, 70 mins) / Darren Richardson /Adam Emson (Adam Strong, 85 mins)

Bishops recorded their first win at Heritage Park at the third time of asking and finally ended their eight game losing streak with a comfortable 4-0 victory in the relegation six pointer against Esh Winning. Manager Colin Myers made one change from the team that lost at the weekend with Simon Ord making way for Steven Turnbull.

The home side kicked off playing from left to right on a chilly but dry evening and were soon threatening the visitor’s goal. The first chance came from a Darren Richardson free kick but his curling shot was headed behind by defender Paul Richardson.

Bishops were controlling possession and increasing the pressure when the breakthrough came in the 13th minute. Christopher Bell’s corner kick to the far post was headed back across goal by Steven Turnbull and Wayne Gredziak powered into the roof of the net from 10 yards out.

With Esh offering little to threaten Peter Jeffries’ goal, Bishops continued to press in search of another goal. A loose ball picked up on the right wing by Bell was quickly played through to the lively looking Richardson, but his shot flew past the right hand upright. Another Bell corner from the right caused problems for the Esh defence, but Snailham cleared Chris Lawson’s goal bound shot off the line.

The visitor’s finally threatened the Bishop’s goal just after the half hour, but as Henderson-Reay raced forward and Jeffries came out quickly to close him down, Lawson chased back well and put in a good tackle to end the danger.

But the game was practically settled ten minutes before half time when a Gredziak cross from the right byline was met with a powerful shot from Adam Emson that hit Daniel Lawson’s outstretched arm. The referee blew for a penalty and then harshly showed the Esh defender the red card. Turnbull stepped up to take the spot kick but Spence guessed right and pulled off a comfortable save.

As some defenders congratulated the keeper, the ball was cleared to Bell on the touchline where he was unceremoniously felled by Henderson-Reay. Bell took the free kick himself from just in front of the home dugout and his curling cross evaded everyone and went into the net off the far post.

The visitors attacked in an effort to get back into the game and looked certain to score when Lennon chipped Jeffries but Clarke tracked back well and cleared off the line.

HT: Bishop Auckland 2, Esh Winning 0

Bishops have not lost this season after being ahead at half-time and confidence was now high that this statistic would continue. Bishops were on the attack again after straight the interval and Bell collected a pass from Gredziak before twisting and turning past four defenders but his side-footed shot went the wrong side of the post.

The third came in the 54th minute again from a Bell corner. Daniel Olusoga’s initial effort was blocked but the rebound fell nicely to Richardson whose curling shot found the top corner of the net.

After Jeffries saved Henderson-Reay’s scorching effort and Spence’s boot denied Emson, Bishops added a fourth eight minutes later when Emson cleverly chipped the keeper after being put through by Richardson.

After that there were few goal scoring incidents for the remainder of the game. On one occasion, Jeffries saved well from Nixon and Richardson again shot the wrong side of the post as keeper Spence stood watching. The final effort came from a long ball launched into the Auckland penalty area. Lennon collided with Jeffries and as the ball rolled towards goal, Clarke again was on hand to preserve the clean sheet.

FT: Bishop Auckland 4, Esh Winning 0

Speaking to the Northern Echo after the game, Colin Myers said: "It was a good win, I thought we dominated from start to finish. But we’re not papering over the cracks, there’s still a few things wrong. The second goal made it a bit easier for us". Whilst Esh Winning boss Peter Mulcaster said: "Bishops were the better side. We’ve got a lot of work to do".

There was a debate over the red card for deliberate handball by Danny Lawson. "I would have been unhappy if it had happened to one of my players", said Myers. "It wasn’t deliberate, he didn’t stick his hand out", said Mulcaster.

As Bishops moved up a place in the league table to give themselves a little breathing room at least for 24 hours, Esh Winning now look doomed at second bottom along with relegation certainties Ryton.

BISHOP AUCKLAND 0 NORTON & STOCKTON 4

Northern League Division One

Saturday 15th January 2011

Bishop Auckland 0 Norton & Stockton Ancients 4

Bishops: Peter Jeffries / Simon Ord / Darren Atkinson / Wayne Clarke / Chris Lawson (capt) / Karl Everitt / Christopher Bell / Darren Richardson / Daniel Olusoga / Wayne Gredziak / Adam Emson (Steven Turnbull)

Exactly a month on from Bishops last game the Two Blues took to the field at Heritage Park for only the second league game to be played on the new ground. The opponents had won 11 of their last 12 games whilst the Bishops had scored seven goals and conceded 26 in their last seven games, all defeats.

The pitch looked in good condition despite the heavy rain of recent days and a late morning inspection confirmed the match was on. Wayne Gedziak was welcomed back into the team following his three month flirtation with Bedlington Terriers and Karl Everitt, recently signed from neighbours Shildon, made his debut.

Bishops kicked off with a gale force wind at their backs but the first chance came at the other end. Peter Jeffries saved with his legs at the near post. After a couple of penalty shouts at either end, Darren Richardson created Bishops first goal scoring opportunity when he picked the ball up in a central position and shot low past the right-hand post. Then Daniel Olusoga’s long range wind assisted shot was well saved low down by Hartlepool keeper Provett.

In the 13th minute, Norton took the lead when Jamie Clarke seized on a loose ball and shot over a stranded Jeffries and into the far corner of the net.

The home side could have been level eight minutes later when a Christopher Bell corner was met at the near post by Olusoga, but his header was saved by the keeper’s boot. There were shouts for a penalty on the half hour when Bell’s goal bound effort was "saved" by Parkin, but referee Hudson was unmoved.

Olusoga was put clean through ten minutes before the interval and despite looking harder to miss than score, the forward managed to side foot the ball past the keeper and inches wide of the right hand upright.

A few minutes before the break, Provett jumped and caught a shot from Bell as he surged at goal from the right wing and from that final chance to equalise Norton went up the other end and forced a corner which brought about the visitors second. Jeffries parried the ball away and when the defender was caught in possession, Bishop prodded home.

HT: Bishop Auckland 0, Norton & Stockton Ancients 2

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Playing into the wind in the second half enabled the Two Blues to control the ball much better than they had managed before the break but they failed to take advantage of the four good chances that were created before Norton added their third.

Ten minutes in, a Bell cross from the right was helped on by Gredziak in the middle, but his touch was just too far in front of Adam Emson for the winger to make good contact. Emson did well to reach the ball at full stretch, but his toe poke flew wide of the left hand post.

Gredziak won the ball and fed Emson again five minutes later and this time the winger made good contact with the ball but Provett palmed his shot behind. Midway through the half, Gredziak fired at goal from 20 yards out but the wind caught hold of his shot and the ball curled and dipped wickedly before falling a yard in front of the goal line as the keeper smothered it. Provett was again on hand to save with his legs as he spread himself well to deny Darren Richardson.

With the addition of fresh legs, Norton continued to press a vulnerable Bishop defence and when a cross from Earl was poked under Jeffries by substitute Mulligan and Gott tapped in from close range a few minutes after a Mulligan shot had skimmed the crossbar the game was up.

Bishops should have had a consolation at the death from a spot kick after Bell was tripped by Furness, but substitute Steven Turnbull lost his 100% penalty goal scoring record when Provett made a comfortable save. The ball fell to Richardson, who seemed