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.

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 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.

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.

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 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.

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

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.

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.

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

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. 

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.

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

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

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

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.

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

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

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

Northern League Division One

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.

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

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

Northern League Division One

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 ! 

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.

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 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.

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

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.

Northern League Division One

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

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

Northern League Challenge Cup Second Round

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.

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

Durham Challenge Cup First Round

Northern League Division One

Northern League Division One

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. 

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

Northern League Division One

Northern League Division One

Northern League Division One

Northern League Division One

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.

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

Sunday's Carvery at Heritage Park has been cancelled.

Northern League Division One

Northern League Division One

 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.  

Northern League Division One

Northern League Division One

Northern League Division One

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.

Northern League Division One

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.

FA Cup Extra Preliminary Round

Northern League Division One

Northern League Division One

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.

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.

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

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

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

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 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

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.

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.

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.

There will be no Sunday Carvery at Heritage Park in July or August.

Back in early September.

Bishop Auckland will now be away at Durham City on 12th July.   Not at Brandon as previously advertised.

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

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 confirmed so far.

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.

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.

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.

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 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.

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.

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 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

Northern League Division One

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

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

Northern League Division One

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.

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

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

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

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.

Northern League Division One

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

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

Northern League Division One

Northern League Division One

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

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

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Bishop Auckland FC teamed up with Sainsbury's Bishop Auckland and Bishop FM to promote Comic Relief last week at Heritage Park.

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

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 

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.

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

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.

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.

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

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

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.

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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 .

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.

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.

Midweek games have finally been scheduled for March. 

These currently include 2nd Bedlington Terriers (A), 9th Norton & Stockton Ancients (A), 22nd Whitley Bay (H)

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 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 !

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.

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.

Northern League Division One

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.

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. 

Northern League Division One

Northern League Division One

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.

Northern League Division One

Northern League Division One