Match Reports

Saturday 26th April
Northern League First Division
Dunston Federation  3 - 2  Spennymoor

Spennymoor were aiming to finish their season on a high but a first  half horror show at Dunston cost them dearly when they went in the interval trailing by three goals. However, a second half fightback saw them pull  two goals back but couldn't quite find the leveller in a game of two halfs. Moors handed a debut to Matty Richardson on the left of midfield, while Andrew Raw started at right back with Carl Beasley moving into centre  back due to the absence of Mark Foster and Richard Ward with the latter  named as a substitute. Dunston were quick out of the traps and in a determined fashion took  the game to Spennymoor with the impressive Ben Catternach over lapping down  the right hand side and before you knew it the home side opened the  scoring. Catternach broke down the right, cut inside and his powerful drive  across the face of goal was turned in his own net by Andy Raw. The game  continued to be one sided in Dunston's favour and Tony Stephenson rattled the  cross bar with a fine header from Catternach's precise delivery. Soon after  the lead was doubled when Moors keeper Niki Lawson saved well from Stephen Preen, the ball was only half cleared by Neil Wilkinson to Jack Burns  who drove low into the bottom corner from 20yds. Moors attacked rarely and Gareth Waite saw a shot saved by Clark in the Dunston goal but other  than that Dunston were rampant and their tails were up. A long ball by Kane Young saw Wilkinson up-end Stephenson in the area and despite the  referee waving away appeals for a penalty, the assistant linesman flagged and a penalty was given. Michael Laws stepped up to send Lawson the wrong way  on the stroke of half time. Moors made two changes at the break with Richard Ward replacing  Wilkinson and Matty Hyson replacing Richardson. Moors took the game to Dunston and pulled a goal back when Jamie Clarke laid the ball off to Graham Robinson who took a touch before firing the ball in past Clark. Spennymoor took confidence from this and piled on  the pressure but it took twenty minutes before their second goal arrived. A splendid free kick from Clarke on the edge of the area saw the ball  zoom into the top corner with Clark rooted to his spot. Clarke almost made the comeback complete when an excellent cross by  Karl Richards went across the goalmouth and Clarke stretched out to hook the ball back towards goal and it came off the woodwork and was cleared to safety. Moors keeper Lawson was a mere spectator in the second half but at the other end Spennymoor just couldn't find the third goal and the Fed held on.

Line-Up: Lawson, Raw, Bishop, Beasley, Wilkinson(Ward),  Richardson(Hyson), Waite, Robinson, Clarke(Jarvis), Storr, Richards.
Subs Not Used:  Ainsley, Roulston.
Supporters Man of the match: Richie Storr

Wednesday 23rd April
Northern League First Division
Spennymoor  0 - 1  Shildon

A depleted Spennymoor team missing several players went down 1-0 against high flying Shildon in their final home game of the season last night. Defenders Richard Ward, Mark Foster and Midfielder Karl Richards were absent from the team that beat Tow Law on Saturday while Karl Jarvis  was handed his first start for the club, while Andy Raw only made his  fourth appearance and the versatile Matty Hyson started at the back. Moors  also give a second half run out to 17 year old Matthew Richardson which the youngster impressed. Shildon passed the ball around the bobbly surface to great effect with beanpole striker Adam Emson the real threat with his pace down the left channel. Shildon midfielder Stuart Niven was pulling the strings in midfield and he opened the home defence up one numerous occasions. Moors had a breakaway when Jamie Clarke got away down the left but he dragged his shot wide. Spennymoor keeper Niki Lawson made a fine stop  when Wayne Gredziak took a pass from Tyson Masters and his deflected shot  was gathered superbly by Lawson. Matty Hyson made an horrendous decision by playing  a week back pass to Lawson which Masters ran onto but again  Lawson saved well. Two minutes after the re start Shildon took the lead. A Niven corner  was headed in by John Hutton who attacked the ball well. Moors threw caution to the wind with the introduction of Manager Jason Ainsley who changed the game. A cross by Matty Richardson was fumbled  by Shildon keeper Clough and Gareth Waite headed the loose ball against  the post while Richie Storr broke away but the ball bobbled from his feet  and Shildon cleared. Richardson had a golden chance from a Storr pass but  shot tamely at Clough. In the end, Shildon held on for a deserved win despite John Jury been dismissed for two yellow cards on 90 minutes.

Line-Up: Lawson, Beasley, Bishop, Raw, Wilkinson, Hyson(Richardson),  Waite, Robinson, Clarke, Storr, Jarvis(Ainsley).
Subs: Roulston, Hinchley.
Supporters Man of the Match: Carl Beasley.

Saturday 19th April
Northern League First Division
Spennymoor  2 - 1  Tow Law Town

A goal either side of half time saw Spennymoor defeat fourth top Tow Law Town at The Brewery Field on Saturday. The win saw Moors gain sweet  revenge for a defeat in the return fixture earlier in the season against their local rivals. Moors welcomed back skipper Carl Beasley, while Richard Ward never recovered from a back injury sustained at Whitley Bay last week and was named amongst the substitutes for the first time this season. A determined performance saw Moors set the tone early on with some neat passing and movement but it took 34 Minutes to break the deadlock.  Jamie Clarke wriggled his way into the area but was tugged back by Stephen  Hutt and despite been last man the Referee only booked the Lawyers defender  and awarded a free kick on the edge of the area. However, Clarke  delightfully slotted the ball into the bottom corner with keeper Jack Norton a  spectator for his 22nd league goal of the season. Spennymoor keeper Niki Lawson  made a fine stop from Alex Benjamin after the Lawyers frontman curled a  right foot shot goal bound following some good play by Phil McGuire. Moors lost schemer Steven Roberts with a suspected broken hand and he  was replaced by Andy Raw. Tow Law levelled the scores fifteen minutes into the second period when captain Mark Eccles found the net from fully 30yds as his cross come shot looped over Lawson and into the net. Moors, though deservedly, went back into the lead when Richie Storr was fouled on the edge of the box and Karl Richards whipped in the free  kick off the far post and into the net with Gareth Waite claiming the final touch, but nevertheless the ball went in and moors regained the  initiative. Moments later, Lawyers keeper Norton made a splendid one handed save  from a Graham Robinson volley after the ball fell into his path in the area  and then Clarke sliced an effort wide from a Waite pass as they looked to stretch their lead. Moors stood firm in the closing minutes and claimed the victory which  they thoroughly deserved over the 90 minutes.

Line-Up: Lawson, Beasley, Bishop, Wilkinson, Foster (Ward), Roberts (Raw), Waite, Robinson, Clarke, Storr, Richards.
Subs Not Used: Jarvis, Ainsley, Hyson.
Supporters Man of the Match: Jamie Clarke.

Saturday 12th April
Northern League First Division
Whitley Bay  1 – 1  Spennymoor

Spennymoor put in a spirited performance to come away with a creditable point against last season's champions Whitley Bay at Hillheads Park. Moors went into the game against second top seahorses without a win in their last four games and without skipper Carl Beasley. Prior to kick off, a presentation was made to Bay forward Lee Kerr who had notched 100 goals at the early age of 20 and the home fans were looking for him to extend that on a sunny afternoon. Moors started the much brighter side and had most of the early possession while Bay forward Paul Chow headed into the arms of Niki Lawson from a deep Paul Robinson centre. Spennymoor opened the scoring on 15 minutes when Karl Richards' corner was flicked on by Graham Robinson into the roof of the net past a stranded Terry Burke in the Bay goal. Moments later, it was almost two when some neat interplay by Richards, Jamie Clarke and Graham Robinson ended with Richie Storr going close. The jubilant Moors fans behind the goal were silenced on 22 minutes when Paul Robinson scored a brilliant goal as he curled the ball into the top corner from 25yds to level the scores. Moors lost defender Richie Ward through injury and he was replaced by Karl Jarvis. Bay then had the ball in the net but the referee blew for a foul on Lawson, while Moors twice shot over after advancing in the final third. Moors again started the brighter side in the second period, with the fine weather turning into a light drizzle. Bay keeper Burke had to tip two drives over the bar with caution before Richards tried an over head kick which fizzed narrowly wide with Burke looking on. The longer the half went on, Bay cam more into it and Lawson dropped a wind assisted cross into the path of Kerr who uncharacteristically volleyed the ball over the woodwork with the goal at his mercy. Chris Moore then burst into the area and his shot across the face of goal failed to find a touch which it thoroughly deserved, while again Moore jinked his way into the box but his shot was blocked by the legs of Lawson. At the other end, Moors should have went ahead when Richards picked out Clarke at the far post who directed a free header against the post and into Burke's hands. Storr then powerfully shot inched over after turning on the edge of the area. Bay almost did win it at the death when Moore played in Mark Minto who blazed a shot over the top while Lawson saved again with his legs from a drive by Kerr.

Line-Up: Lawson, Wilkinson, Bishop, Ward(Jarvis), Foster, Roberts, Waite, Robinson, Clarke, Storr, Richards.
Subs Not Used: Raw, Richardson, Ainsley, Hinchley.
Supporters Man of the Match: Graham Robinson.

Wednesday 9th April
Northern League First Division
Spennymoor  1 - 1  Dunston Federation

Moors were denied all three points when Cramlington Referee Mark Lawson played nine minutes of stoppage time in which Dunston Fed scored a dramatic leveller to prevent the Moors a rare win. Dunston had the edge throughout, but were let down by some poor finishing from Tony Stevenson and Stephen Preen, while it took Spennymoor an hour to open the scoring through a great volley from Richie Storr. Moors thought they had sealed the win, but Stevenson curled a shot home from the edge of the area in the 9th minute of time added on.

Line-Up: Lawson, Beasley, Foster, Ward, Wilkinson, Roberts(Jarvis), Waite, Robinson(Raw), Clarke, Storr(Hyson), Richards.
Subs Not Used: Roulston, Ainsley.
Supporters man of the match: Richie Storr

Saturday 5th April
Northern League First Division
Spennymoor  3 - 2  Ashington

Despite leading 2-1 with twenty minutes to go, Spennymoor threw away three points to relegation strugglers Ashington who fired two late goals to boost their chances of avoiding the drop. The colliers went ahead early in the first half through Ross Atkinson who cut inside from the right and his shot somehow went past Stuart Dawson's hand from an acute angle. Moors pushed on and were rewarded before the interval when Jamie Clarke burst clear and sent a delightful chip over the head of Ashington keeper Paul Simpson into the net. Soon after half time, Moors deservedly went ahead when Clarke got away down the left and crossed for Gareth Waite to head home powerfully into the corner. However, after piling the pressure on the Moors goal, home defender Carl Beasley's attempted headed backpass fell into the path of sub Gareth Bainbridge who took a touch and fired home. The winner came with ten minutes remaining as Neil Wilkinson handled the ball in the area and the referee pointed to the spot. David Tremble stepped up to fire home the penalty into the corner of Dawson's right hand post.

Line-Up: Dawson, Beasley, Bishop (Robinson), Ward, Foster, Wilkinson, Waite, Roberts, Clarke, Storr, Richards.
Subs not used: Raw, Jarvis, Ainsley, Hyson

Saturday 29th March
Northern League First Division
Billingham Synthonia  3 - 1  Spennymoor

Spennymoor's recent revival came to an end when they lost 3-1 at  Billingham Synthonia at the weekend in a disappointing matter after two excellent victories last week. Moors made three changes to the team with captain  Mark Foster and Richie Storr both available after injuries had kept the pair out for the last three weeks and the availability of Stuart Irvine. Steven Roberts and Graham Robinson were the casualties with the latter unavailable due to other commitments. Synthonia started well and looked the more potent side with the wind against their backs which saw James Magowan heading against the bar from a deep Michael Jameson cross. Moors had a golden chance to open the scoring against the run of play when Karl Richards burst into the area and from a tight angle he chose to pass which was intercepted by former Moors player Christian Hanson. Billingham deservedly opened the scoring on 36 minutes when another cross by Jameson was bundled home by Colin Iley past a static Niki Lawson in the Moors goal. Soon after, lightning struck twice when an almost identical goal put the home side well into the driving seat before the interval. Jameson crossed for the unmarked Magowan to sweep the ball home with Lawson rooted to his spot. The interval couldn't come quick enough for a disjointed Moors side who looked unfamiliar with the 3-5-2 formation. As predicted, Moors changed to a 4-4-2 formation for the start of the second period with the introduction of Carl Beasley who replaced Andy Raw and Moors pressed but were let down in the final third. Spennymoor forced three corners within a five minute spell all to no avail. Jamie Clarke  then played in Stuart Irvine with a neat backheel but Irvine's weak shot  failed to trouble John Jackson in the Synners goal. Richards forced his way to the by line and his cross cum shot clipped  the woodwork as the hosts struggled to get out of their half. When they  did, with eleven minutes remaining, they made their lead unassailable when  some kamikaze defending by Spennymoor gifted it to them on a plate. Neil Wilkinson lost possession inside his box and hesitation by Lawson  allowed a simple finish for Iley off the upright. Moors piled forward with the introduction of Roberts and Karl Jarvis  and Roberts pulled a consolation goal back on 85 minutes when he finished  from close range after Richards' corner was only half cleared.

Line-Up: Lawson, Raw (Beasley), Bishop, Ward (Jarvis), Foster, Wilkinson, Waite, Irvine, Clarke, Storr (Roberts), Richards.
Subs not used: Ainsley, Hyson.

Monday 24th March
Northern League First Division
Bishop Auckland  0 - 1  Spennymoor

A Second half goal from Andy Raw proved sufficient for Spennymoor as they won their local derby against Bishop Auckland on Easter Monday morning at Shildon's Dean Street ground. The 200 strong crowd were made up of mostly Moors fans who saw their team claim their third derby win of the season against the homeless Bishops, who like Jarrow, are deep in a relegation crisis. Manager Jason Ainsley made two changes to the team that went nap against Jarrow on Saturday with Andy Raw and Darren Roulston replacing Ainsley & Hyson respectively which also saw Steven Roberts continue in attack alongside top scorer Jamie Clarke. Forward Chris Lawther was named amongst the substitutes as he returned from a spell in local football.

Moors made the better start and twice Clarke shot well wide from distance before Karl Richards got to the by line and crossed for the unmarked Clarke to head against the outside of the post with the goal at his mercy.  Bishops were then handed a chance when goalkeeper Niki Lawson spilled a cross from Darren Richardson and Curt Warburton stabbed the loose ball inched wide of the post. Spennymoor raced up field with Gareth Waite beating the offside trap and with just Bishop keeper Chris Porter to beat the Moors midfielder chose to pass to Clarke who lost out to Crager and the chance went begging. The remainder of the half was uneventful and with outbreaks of snow showers both teams were content to go in at the break on level terms. Spennymoor couldn't have asked for a better start in the second period as Richards got away down the left and his deep cross was pulled back by Clarke for Raw to head into the net past Porter from close range to ignite mass celebrations behind the goal from the vocal travelling Moors fans. Bishops tried in vein to salvage something from the game and threw caution to the wind which saw Joe Fairish break from midfield and his dipping drive was superbly tipped over the top by Lawson. Lawson was again in action when he got down low to save a Kevin Dixon shot and Warburton blazed the loose ball over the woodwork from 6yds. Moors replaced frontman Roberts with Jarvis and that allowed Richards to move up front. Lawson once again tipped a 20yd free kick by Warburton over the top following a foul by Craig Bishop on Fairish. With Bishops pushing on, It left gaps at the back and a quick Moors breakaway by Graham Robinson saw him advance in the box and unselfishly try and set up Richards but Langley blocked his attempted pass and the ball was cleared. Bishops forced two corners in succession which were dealt with comfortably by the impressive defensive pair of Richard Ward and Neil Wilkinson. Jamie Clarke had another golden chance when in the dying minutes when he raced clear and with only Porter to beat he fired against the legs of the Bishop keeper. Moors stood firm to collect their second win in three days and chalk up their 10th ANL clean sheet of the season.

Line-Up; Lawson, Roulston, Bishop, Ward, Wilkinson, Raw, Waite, Robinson, Clarke, Roberts(Jarvis), Richards.
Subs Not Used: Lawther, Ainsley, Beasley, Richardson.
Supporters Man of the Match: Craig Bishop.  

Saturday 22nd March
Northern League First Division
Spennymoor  6 - 0  Jarrow Roofing

For the second time this season, Spennymoor trounced basement boys Jarrow Roofing who now looked doomed to relegation. After scoring five without reply in November, Moors scored six without reply at the Brewery Field on Saturday afternoon as Roofing were put to the sword. Six different players got their name on the score sheet as Steve Roberts, Graham Robinson notched in the first half which was followed by second half goals from Gareth Waite, Karl Richards, Andy Raw and Karl Jarvis to pile more misery on the visitors who are rooted at the bottom of the table. Moors we without the injured Richie Storr and Mark Foster, while Stuart Irvine was unavailable. Skipper Carl Beasley was named as a substitute while their was a surprise - but welcome -start for Manager Jason Ainsley in the middle of the park. Another surprise was former Spennymoor United defender Wes Saunders taking his place in the Jarrow dug-out as the former Torquay Manager has joined the Roofing coaching staff.

However, The floodgates opened in the 17th Minute when Richards took an Ainsley pass in his stride to provide an excellent cross for Roberts to slide home from close range. Ainsley then saw a powerful 25yd free kick turned around the post by Jarrow keeper Jonathan Gibson. Goal number two arrived on 29 minutes and it was a classic. Graham Robinson burst away into the area and cut inside on his left foot to curl the ball home into the bottom corner of Gibson's net. The visitors had a decent chance when Dean Hustler beat the offside trap but home keeper Niki Lawson saved well in a one on one situation. During the interval, Spennymoor officials were out on the field clearing the lines during a heavy snow blizzard which cleared before the re-start. Two minutes into the second half and Moors scored their third when Ainsley swung over a free-kick for Waite to head home. Moors talisman Craig Bishop was struggling with an hamstring injury and he was replaced by Jarvis soon after. Karl Richards then cut in from the right on his favourite left foot and his scintillating drive flew into the top corner via a deflection of Jarrow defender Paxton to increase the Spennymoor lead. Waite was replaced by Raw who scored his first goal for the club since his move from Whitby Town and Moors fifth when he took Richards pass inside the area and coolly slotted the ball into the net. The rout was completed by fellow sub Jarvis who shot past the overworked Gibson from 25yds.

Line-Up: Lawson, Wilkinson, Bishop (Jarvis), Ward, Hyson, Waite (Raw), Ainsley, Robinson, Clarke (Richardson), Roberts, Richards.
Subs Not Used: Roulston, Beasley.
Supporters Man of the Match: Jason Ainsley  

Tuesday 18th March
Northern League First Division
Spennymoor  0 - 1  Morpeth Town

Spennymoor slumped to a narrow home defeat to in form Morpeth Town on Tuesday evening as the visitors became only the second team this season to complete a league double over the Moors who have now won only one of their last eight league fixtures. Moors boss Jason Ainsley made two changes from Saturday’s draw with Billingham Town with Stuart Irvine replacing the unavailable Karl Richards and Steven Roberts was rewarded with a start ahead of Andy Raw who dropped to the bench.

Both sides started with plenty of gusto but with little quality in the final third. Moors keeper Niki Lawson was first into action when he saved a rasping drive from Morpeth’s polish front man Halembaeczk. Moors build up play was generally good but Graham Robinson and Jamie Clarke were given little service and when they did it came at a minimum. Robinson ran onto an excellent Craig Bishop through ball but misjudged the ball and it came off the back of his boot while Clarke headed into Morpeth keeper Barry Poskett’s arms following Irvine’s deep corner. Lawson then saved Moors again when Halembaeczk evaded two challenges in the area but couldn’t beat the Moors keeper from an acute angle. Morpeth opened the scoring when a cross from the right was met by the unmarked Ian Herron who turned the ball home from close range. Moors almost got back into it but Poskett saved from the feet of Clarke. Spennymoor replaced Robinson with Raw and switched Irvine to attack alongside Clarke, who, almost levelled when he flicked the ball past Warwick and produced a stunning volley which Poskett saved well. Moors forced a couple of corners in quick succession but couldn’t capitalise and Morpeth sub Kevin Henderson went close at the death but Lawson saved his deflected shot. In the end, only the third home defeat of the season but Moors’ lack of firepower up front is a very worrying situation and must bounce back against basement boys Jarrow Roofing at home on Saturday.

Line-Up: Lawson, Beasley, Bishop, Ward, Hyson, Wilkinson, Waite, Roberts, Clarke, Robinson(Raw), Irvine.
Subs Not Used: Ainsley, Roulston, Jarvis, Richardson.
Supporter’s Man of the Match: Craig Bishop.

Saturday 15th March
Northern League First Division
Spennymoor  0 - 0  Billingham Town

Draw Specialists Spennymoor were again held for the third consecutive game against high flying Billingham Town at The Brewery Field on Saturday. A dour game watched by 147 spectators saw chances come few and far between which the visitors slightly edged. Moors were without midweek scorer Stuart Irvine while Richie Storr and Mark Foster both missed through Injury. Karl Richards returned and manager Jason Ainsley handed a debut to midfielder Andy Raw from Whitby Town. Assistant boss Gary Hinchley was named among the five substitutes for the first time this season. 

Billingham Town - fresh from their 5-2 win at Seaham on Thursday night - applied the early pressure and moved the ball around better on the bobbly surface but were restricted to long range efforts at Niki Lawson's goal. Moors defender Neil Wilkinson had Lawson to thank when he sliced a Stuart Banks teasing centre goal bound which Lawson got down low to turn around the post. Billingham looked the more dangerous going forward while Moors had a golden opportunity to open the scoring when they broke quickly against the run of play through Karl Richards who advanced into the area but Mark Casey got back well with the help of Richards' trying to put the ball on his left foot. Steve Flockett then blazed a half chance over the top when he had time in the Moors area. Moors then had strong appeals for a penalty turned down and seconds later Neil Wilkinson was booked for a strong challenge on former Moors player Adam Clough despite clearly winning the ball. Raw picked up a loose ball on the edge of the area but side footed into a Billingham defender as the half drew to a close. Billingham again searched in vein for the opener with Banks wastefully firing over, then the best chance of the game came when Chris Smith ran clear on goal but lifted the ball over Lawson and the Moors bar. Spennymoor huffed and puffed on the break with Jamie Clarke and Richards going close without really testing Billingham keeper Darren Collier.  Moors then replaced Raw with Steven Roberts. The game continued with both sides failing to carve out any significant opportunities and degenerated into a midfield dogfight.

 

Line-Up; Lawson, Beasley, Bishop, Ward, Hyson, Wilkinson, Waite, Robinson, Clarke, Raw(Roberts), Richards.
Subs Not Used: Hinchley, Ainsley, Roulston, Jarvis.
Supporters Man of the match: Matty Hyson.

Tuesday 11th March
Northern League First Division
Newcastle Benfield  1 - 1  Spennymoor

Spennymoor chalked up their eleventh draw of the season against high flying Newcastle Benfield at Sam Smith's Park on Tuesday evening. Draw specialists Moors have now drawn three of their last four games in their first season back in the ANL Division One.  Boss Jason Ainsley was without the services of Karl Richards who was replaced by Stuart Irvine in what was the same side that drew with Bedlington Terriers at the Weekend. Mark Foster was still missing as he continued to nurse his ankle injury picked up last week. 

The heavy rain saturated the pitch before kick off then the swirling wind made it difficult for both sides to play flowing football in a game of two halves. Benfield had the wind behind them in the first half with Brian Dodsworth delivering two cross cum shots which Moors keeper Niki Lawson collected easily. Ian Graham then fired over in another home raid before Moors suffered a blow when Richie Storr challenged for a loose ball in the area from Irvine's long throw and fell awkwardly on his ankle and was soon stretchered off and taken to Hospital. Steven Roberts came on to replace him with Graham Robinson moving into attack alongside Jamie Clarke. Benfield then opened the scorning when Stephen Buzzeo crashed a wind assisted shot over the head of Lawson and into the net via the underside of the bar. Alu Bangura and Paul Anthony combined for Lee Hamilton to stab a shot wide while Moors broke away with Robinson into the area but Kevin Leighton got back to slide in and win the ball. Robinson and Clarke exchanged passes for Irvine to advance into the box but again home defender Leighton tackled well to halt the Moors attack. Robinson again did well when he got to the by line and pulled the ball across the face of goal which Gareth Waite poked wide of the post with the goal at his mercy.  Clarke had to shots blocked at the start of the second period before Carl Beasley floated a deep cross into the area for Irvine to side foot past Benfield keeper Grainger to bring Moors on level terms. The wind picked up again and Benfield struggled to clear the ball out of their own half. Matty Hyson and Richard Ward got in a mix up on the half way line which allowed Hamilton to run at goal but his shot went well wide and Moors were let off the hook. Irvine then had a shot saved by Grainger from the edge of the box while Waite curled a shot over the woodwork. Moors piled on the pressure and were throwing balls into the Benfield box which the home defence did well to clear before Clarke nodded another cross onto the post in time added on.

Line-Up; Lawson, Beasley, Bishop, Ward, Hyson, Wilkinson, Waite, Robinson, Clarke, Storr (Roberts), Irvine.
Subs Not Used: Jarvis, Ainsley, Roulston, Richardson.
Supporters Man of the Match: Neil Wilkinson

Saturday 8th March
Northern League First Division
Bedlington Terriers  2 – 2  Spennymoor

A draw was a fair result as Moors and Bedlington Terriers played out a 2-2 draw in an entertaining game at Welfare Park. Richie Storr had Spennymoor into the lead but two goals inside a five minute spell from Terriers give them the initiative at the break. Top scorer Jamie Clarke levelled the scores in the second period to give Moors a deserved share of the points. Jason Ainsley was without the services of Mark Foster and Stuart Irvine so Matty Hyson made a rare start and Graham Robinson was handed a start after his goal in midweek.

A heavy downpour prior to kick soon cleared while the Moors fans who made the trip to Wansbeck were in fine voice behind the goal that Spennymoor were kicking. Spennymoor should have taken the lead in the opening minutes when the ball was played in behind the Terriers defence by Karl Richards and Clarke could only shoot into the legs of keeper Karl Dryden from close range. Moors then opened the scoring when Dryden raced out of his area but his clearance fell into the path of Storr who returned a sublime volley which bounced into the roof of the empty net. If anyone thought Spennymoor were going to run away with the game then they were wrong as former Moors striker Anthony Shandran cut inside on his left foot and curled the ball into the top corner of Niki Lawson's net to bring the scores level. Moments later, Bedlington were in front when Alex Lawson got to the by line and his centre was finished well by James Lang from 6yds. Shandran had a good chance to increase the home lead when he raced clear of Richie Ward but Lawson stood up well to turn the ball around the post for a corner. On the stroke of half time, Terriers keeper Dryden saved his team with two magnificent saves from set pieces as Storr out jumped the home defence but the keeper pulled off a full length save to tip it around the post. Clarke also headed goal bound but Dryden again foiled the Moors attack with a good save. The resulting corner saw Storr put a free header wide of the upright.

Moors started the second half the way they left the first and after Clarke went close the equaliser came when Richards went past his marker and delivered a fine cross for Clarke to head into the net - much to the delight of the travelling fans behind the goal.  Storr then shot over from a Gareth Waite pass before Shandran beat the offside trap but again Niki Lawson did well to block with his legs and Alex Lawson blazed the loose ball over the top. McFarland then crossed for Shandran to head into Lawson's arms and then Richards tried his luck from 25yds which went high over the top as the game ended all square and both sides happy with a point.

Line-Up: Lawson, Beasley, Bishop(Jarvis), Ward, Hyson, Wilkinson, Waite, Robinson, Clarke, Storr(Roulston), Richards.
Subs Not Used: Roberts, Richardson, Alderson.
Supporters Man of the Match: Richie Storr

Tuesday 4th March
Northern League First Division
Spennymoor  3 - 1  Sunderland Nissan

Spennymoor were worthy 3-0 winners against high flying Sunderland Nissan on Tuesday night at The Brewery Field. Two goals inside the first eight minutes from Richie Storr and Jamie Clarke set them on their way in a one sided first half then after Nissan were reduced to 10 men, up popped Graham Robinson to add the third in an entertaining clash.

Moors boss Jason Ainsley named two changes to Saturday's disappointing draw with West Allotment Celtic with Stuart Irvine and Gareth Waite coming in for Steven Roberts and Graham Robinson.  Spennymoor made the perfect start when a corner by Karl Richards after 50 seconds was volleyed into the net by Richie Storr from close range. Jamie Clarke then slotted in the second on eight minutes to double the lead and shock Nissan's shaky defence. It could, and probably should, have been three on 24 minutes when Stuart Irvine ran onto Richards' through ball but Nissan Keeper Paul Newton saved with his legs as Moors continued to break quickly and press at every opportunity. On a rare attack for Nissan, David Tate shot over the top and Gavin Cogdon fizzed a shot wide. Leon Ryan put two back post headers wide from Ben Ryan Corners and then Irvine cleared off the line from Neil Hodgson's header following another flag kick from Ben Ryan.  Moors then lost influential defender Mark Foster through a suspected broken ankle after he overlapped down the left channel with Irvine but fell awkwardly under the challenge from Gary Pearson. Matty Hyson came off the bench to replace the Moors vice captain. Chris Scott then floated a delightful cross into the area which Leon Ryan flicked on but it flashed inches wide of Niki Lawson's upright. Moors started brightly again at the start of the second half with Clarke seeing a volley hacked off the line before the real turning point of the game came on 55 Minutes. Nissan defender Justin Keegan played a backpass to keeper Newton which fell short and Storr nipped in only to be fouled by the Nissan keeper and Referee Paul Davison sent off Newton after confirmation from his Assistant. Scott then put the keepers jersey on but Irvine's weak free kick was easily saved by the stand in stopper. The lively Ben Ryan then ran to the by line and pulled the back but Cogdon blazed the ball over the bar. At the other end, Moors striker Storr wriggled into the area but his cross was headed away. Ben Ryan then forced a splendid one handed save from Lawson in the Moors goal from a vicious volley just outside the box before Moors sealed the game in stoppage time when sub Graham Robinson raced clear to fire past a hapless Scott in the Nissan goal.

Line-Up: Lawson, Beasley, Bishop, Ward, Foster(Hyson), Wilkinson, Irvine, Waite, Clarke(Robinson), Storr, Richards.
Subs Not Used: Ainsley, Jarvis, Richardson.

Saturday 1st March
Northern League First Division
Spennymoor  1 - 1  West Allotment Celtic

Spennymoor were held to a 1-1 draw at home to West Allotment Celtic in a game played in swirling wind at the Brewery Field. Moors kept the same side that were unlucky to lose at Consett last week which meant only a place on the bench for both Gareth Waite and Stuart Dawson. In a dour game, Moors should have been two goals up inside ten minutes when Jamie Clarke wasted gilt edged opportunities, while the visitors counter attacked and had strong appeals for a penalty turned down when a free kick by Keith Douglas looked to strike Graham Robinson on the arm but the Referee and his assistants missed the incident. Celtic had the ball in the back of the net when a deep cross by Patterson was met by Stephen Locker who headed goal bound for Moors defender Richard Ward to head into his own goal but the Assistant Referee ruled that the ball went out of play before coming back in with the strong wind.  Spennymoor played the better football and Clarke put two good deliveries in the area which first Richie Storr acrobatically volleyed wide then Craig Bishop miss cued when the loose ball fell kindly to his feet. Clarke then got away from Locker but Celtic keeper Kevin Morton saved well from the Moors striker. The opening goal came to Spennymoor on 43 Minutes when Karl Richards overlapped down the left and he cut inside to fire into the net past Morton who got a hand to the ball but couldn't stop it going into the net. Moors replaced Steven Roberts with Waite at half time. Moors should have extended their lead soon after the re start when Richards burst into the area but again Morton blocked his shot from an acute angle. Celtic were awarded a penalty on 64 minutes after Carl Beasley lunged in on Andy Hay inside the area and the referee pointed to the spot. Douglas stepped up to send Niki Lawson the wrong way and level the scores. Stuart Brightwell came on to replace Craig Bishop. Moors struggled to create any clear cut chances in poor conditions and they were thankful to keeper Lawson's point blank save in stoppage time which would have been harsh on Spennymoor if it had went in.

Line-Up; Lawson, Beasley, Bishop(Brightwell), Ward, Foster, Wilkinson, Roberts(Waite), Robinson, Clarke, Storr, Richards.
Subs Not Used: Dawson, Hyson, Jarvis.
Supporters Man of the Match: Carl Beasley.

Saturday 23rd February
Northern League First Division
Consett  1 - 0  Spennymoor

Spennymoor pushed Championship contenders Consett all the way before going down 1-0 on their trip to Belle Vue on Saturday. While Consett had the better of the opening period which in which they scored, Spennymoor dominated the second and created five clear cut chances but failed to find the back of the net.  Moors boss Jason Ainsley was handed a boost before kick off when Karl Richards, Jamie Clarke and Carl Beasley were all available who missed the midweek defeat at Durham City.

The swirling wind made it difficult for both sides to settle but Consett always looked the dangerous on the counter attack with the league's leading scorer Mattie Moffatt in the thick of the action while Spennymoor recorded long range efforts from Clarke and Richie Storr.  Consett opened the scoring on 27 Minutes when Jonjo Dickman nipped in behind the Moors defence and laid a pass to David Pounder who inturn crossed for Moffatt to head home under the challenge from Beasley past Niki Lawson who got a hand to the ball but couldn't prevent it going into the net.  Consett were well on top by now and Lawson made two terrific saves from both Moffatt and Steven Brow to keep the lead to a minimum.  It was then a case of re-group for Spennymoor at the interval and what was to follow was some good pressurising football from Moors. Neil Wilkinson out jumped the Consett defence to head the ball past Craig Turns in the Consett goal but Brown headed off the line in dramatic fashion. Storr then wriggled his way into the area which led to Richards firing well over the bar and Jamie Clarke raced clear with only Turns to beat but the keeper stuck an arm up to put the ball away for a corner. The final moments saw Clarke fire a free-kick which was deflected inched past the post and Robinson blazed a shot over the top but the hosts held out to claim the three points.

Line-Up; Lawson, Beasley, Bishop, Ward, Foster, Wilkinson, Roberts(Brightwell), Robinson, Clarke, Storr, Richards.
Subs Not Used: Ainsley, Hyson, Roulston, Jarvis.
Supporters Man of the match: Mark Foster.
 

Tuesday 19th February
Northern League First Division
Durham  3 – 1  Spennymoor

Spennymoor succumbed to a midweek defeat to table toppers Durham City at a cold and foggy Archibalds Stadium. Moors were without top scorer Jamie Clarke, skipper Carl Beasley and Karl Richards, while Stuart Irvine and Graham Robinson came in to the starting line-up. The win puts City 13 points clear at the top of the league with Spennymoor looking likely to consolidate around the mid table mark on their return to the Northern League First Division. 

City started well and it was no surprise when they opened the scoring after 7 Minutes. Stephen Capper crossed for pint sized striker Steven Richardson to volley over Niki Lawson and into the net from fully 25yds. City continued to move the ball around quickly and Spennymoor couldn't do likewise as they struggled to get a grip of the Artificial Surface.  Moors were handed a lifeline ten minutes later when City defender Capper played a back pass to keeper John Caffry but the ball rolled past the keeper and into the net to put moors on level terms - totally against the run of play.  City attacked at every opportunity with John Toft, Stephen Harrison, Keith Graydon all in the thick of things and twice Adam Johnston shot high over the top with only Lawson to beat. The speedy Richardson then broke clear but Richard Ward got back to slide the ball out for a corner. Richard Storr had a golden opportunity to put Spennymoor in front on the stroke of half time when he took the ball from Ian Davison and advanced into the box but Caffry forced him wide and the Moors front man shot into the side netting. Half time came with Moors the more happier side to go in on level terms.

City came out the more livelier side and again it was Richardson who was the thorn in Moors defence when he dispossessed both Ward and Mark Foster to fire a first time shot low past Lawson into the net on 52 Minutes.  Moors then replaced Craig Bishop with Darren Roulston. Moors were forced to long range efforts which all went wide of Caffry's goal, while City looked likely to increase their lead when Richardson twice in as many minutes capitalised on poor defending to shoot wide of the post from inside the area.  The third goal for City came with ten minutes to go when Harrison crossed deep for former Moors striker Johnston to nod in at the back post. Karl Jarvis came on to replace Steven Roberts. Moors forced two corners in the last minute when Irvine picked out Foster to volley goalbound but Caffry tipped over then Robinson directed a header which Caffry managed to parry over. The final whistle came with City deserved winners.

Line-Up: Lawson, Wilkinson, Bishop (Roulston), Ward, Foster, Roberts (Jarvis), Brightwell, Waite, Robinson, Storr, Irvine.
Subs Not Used: Hyson, Ainsley, Lawther.

Saturday 16th February
Northern League 1st Division
Spennymoor  5 – 1  Washington

Jamie Clarke made amends for his penalty miss in midweek to rifle a hat-trick against struggling Washington at The Brewery Field on Saturday. Richie Storr also bagged a brace as the Moors strolled to victory in a one sided game. Manager Jason Ainsley made two changes with Richard Ward coming in for Stuart Irvine and keeper Niki Lawson replacing Stuart Dawson, while he was still without the services of Karl Richards - who became a Dad at the weekend.

Clarke looked sharp early on when he ran onto Carl Beasley's through ball but James Mobberley blocked his shot and Lenny French saved the rebound from Stuart Brightwell. Moors forced two corners and it was the second when they opened the scoring on 12 Minutes. Brightwell's delivery picked out Gareth Waite who headed against the bar and Richie Storr was on hand to fire home the loose ball. A minute later it was two when Storr and Clarke exchanged passes for Clarke to slot the ball into the net from inside the area. Moors continued to press and Clarke almost made it three when Washington keeper French put the ball out of play and Beasley's quick throw found Clarke who volleyed goal bound but French parried away. Against the run of play, the visitors pulled a goal back when David Lee released Peter Watling who saw his shot blocked by Moors keeper Lawson but veteran Willie Moat was on hand to score into an empty net and reduce the deficit.

Moors gave themselves a two goal cushion minutes after half time when Storr picked up a loose ball in the area and shot home before Clarke scored the goal of the game on 57 Minutes following excellent work by Waite who raced downfield and crossed for Clarke to volley into the net to make it number four. Clarke then scored his hat-trick when he beat the offside trap and rounded French to score into an empty net. Clarke the had another chance when he raced clear again but French blocked with his legs, then French made another splendid save from Clarke as the Moors striker advanced into the area. Graham Robinson, on as a substitute, found himself in the clear but French produced a breathtaking save to put the ball out for a corner. Washington could have scored themselves when Dean Christlow hit the foot of the post while Lee curled a 20yd free kick high over the woodwork.

Line-Up: Lawson, Beasley (Jarvis), Bishop, Ward, Foster, Wilkinson, Roberts, Waite, Clarke, Storr (Robinson), Brightwell (Hyson).
Subs Not Used: Ainsley, Richardson.
Supporters Man of the Match: Gareth Waite.

Wednesday 13th Febrauary
Northern League Division 1
Shildon  2 – 1  Spennymoor

A last minute penalty save by Shildon keeper Andrew Spence preserved a 2-1 victory for his side in the County Durham derby at Dean Street on Wednesday night. Moors handed a debut to Stuart Irvine who replaced the missing Karl Richards, while Steven Roberts came in for the injured Richard Ward for the only other change to the team that beat Northallerton at the weekend. Played on a bobbly pitch, both side struggled to create any real chances in the first period and it took Shildon just 5 Minutes into the second half to open the scoring. Former Moors player Stuart Niven sent Tyson Masters clear and he supplied a good finish into the far corner of Stuart Dawson's net. Moors should have levelled soon after when Richie Storr crossed for Stuart Irvine to volley off the woodwork from 8yds with the goal at his mercy. Jamie Clarke then put a free header wide of Spence's post and sub Matty Hyson saw a close range header blocked by Spence from an Irvine corner. Shildon went 2-0 up on 81 Minutes following a corner which was not dealt with by the Spennymoor defence and sub Gary Bullyment had the simple job of side footing into an empty net. Moors pressed and were rewarded on 86 minutes through Jamie Clarke who got away from his marker before firing low and hard into the bottom corner to reduce the arrears before Richie Storr was pulled back in the area in the dying seconds of the game and the referee pointed to the spot. Niven was red carded for dissent and after a delay Jamie Clarke's weak penalty was saved by Spence - who lives in Spennymoor and a life long fan of the Moors - to become the hero of the night.

Line-Up: Dawson, Beasley (Roulston), Bishop, Roberts (Lawther), Foster, Wilkinson, Brightwell (Hyson), Waite, Clarke, Storr.
Subs Not Used: Robinson, Ainsley.

Supporters Man of the Match: Gareth Waite.

Saturday 9th February
Northern League Division 1
Northallerton  2 - 3  Spennymoor

Three second half goals - including a last minute winner - saw Spennymoor come from behind to complete a league double over Northallerton at the weekend.  Moors manager Jason Ainsley was also sent-off from the dug-out for "foul and abusive language" aimed at Malton referee Chris Woodall in the second period. The home side started the better side and went close early on as Stuart Dixon picked out Daniel Earl who shot wide of Stuart Dawson's left hand post. Karl Richards got away from Michael Gustavson down the left for Spennymoor and his low cross saw Jamie Clarke pull a shot inches wide of the  pright. Moors lost Richard Ward through Injury and he was replaced by utility player Matty Hyson. The opening goal came on 14 Minutes as a quick free kick caught Moors defence napping and Paul Hinton turned quickly to shoot into the net to give the hosts the initiative. Moors tried in vain to get into the game and Richie Storr had a good chance but the Northallerton keeper made a smart save. Jamie Clarke was another who was foiled by the home keeper from a shot inside the area. Craig Bishop had a drive blocked as Moors threatened to get on top. Northallerton always looked dangerous on the break and neat work by Goodwin Douglas allowed Earl to run through but Dawson came to the rescue with a good block. Mark Foster lost possession in his own half and this allowed a home player to advance into the area and his teasing cross was missed by the onrushing Earl as Moors were let off the hook once again.

The interval couldn't come quick enough for Spennymoor in order to regroup and soon after the re start Moors were on level terms. Karl Richards broke away and his deep cross was met by Stuart Brightwell who volleyed into the net via a deflection off a home defender. It was all Spennymoor and only a matter of time before another was added but a mixture of poor finishing and lack of quality in the final third prevented them from doing so. It took until the 86th Minute for Moors to take the lead when Richie Storr turned his maker on the edge of the area and played in Brightwell who's shot was blocked only as far as Clarke who's shot was also blocked on the line and Gareth Waite stepped up to slot the ball into the bottom corner from 12yds. Northallerton pressed in the final stages and were rewarded in the 89th Minute as Robert Bettson slammed home the equaliser but it was Spennymoor who has the final laugh as Brightwell's cross found Hyson who pulled the ball across the gaol for Clarke to score his 7th goal in 6 games.

Line-Up: Dawson, Beasley, Bishop, Ward(Hyson), Foster, Wilkinson, Brightwell, Waite, Clarke, Storr(Roberts), Richards.
Subs Not Used: Lawson, Ainsley, Roulston.
Supporters Man of the Match: Gareth Waite.

Monday 4th February
Durham Senior Cup Semi Final
Gateshead  1 - 0  Spennymoor
(After Extra Time)

A goal in the 118th minute from Gateshead sub Ben Hutchinson broke Spennymoor's hearts in the Semi-Final of the Newton Moor Durham Challenge Cup infront of a near 300 crowd at The International Stadium.  Moors were 90 seconds away from taking the game to penalties against their higher ranked opponents who play two divisions higher and currently sit third in the UniBond Premier Division. Whilst Gateshead had more chances and possession, the late sucker punch was still cruel on Spennymoor who had defended resolutely throughout the 90 minutes and 28 minutes into extra time. A much changed Moors side saw Richie Alderson and Gareth Waite make their first starts, while Matty Hyson started in attack alongside the returning transfer listed David Manson. Graham Robinson, Richie Storr, Jason Ainsley were on the bench, Jamie Clarke and Steven Roberts cup-tied and Stuart Brightwell missing due to a illness.

Gateshead made a flying start and were out of the traps much quicker with David Southern and Jamie Harewood combining for the latter to fizz a shot wide of the far post. Steve Bowey drilled a shot into the arms of Stuart Dawson before Paul Thompson headed over a Paul Talbot cross.  Moors struggled to carve out a clear cut chance and were reduced to long balls forward which Gateshead defenders James Curtis and Steve Salvin dealt with relatively comfortable. Karl Richards had Spennymoor's first effort but home keeper Paul Musslewhite collected cleanly. Gateshead were foiled again by Dawson when Harewood teed up Southern but saw his drive pushed around the post. Curtis headed into Dawson's arms from the resulting corner and the best chance of the half fell to Tynesiders captain Bowey when he burst into the box but fired inched wide of Dawson's far post.

Moors replaced Alderson with Graham Robinson for the start of the second period but again it was Gateshead who applied all the pressure and twice Salvin headed over from good deliveries by Harewood. The unmarked Southern was then picked out by Bowey on the edge of the box but Dawson produced a magnificent fingertip save to turn it around the post.  Spennymoor then raced upfield and a fine ball from debutant Gareth Waite sent Manson clear and the Moors striker tried to round Musslewhite to slot into an empty net but the experienced keeper - with over 600 football league appearances - got down quickly to gather the ball from Manson's foot.  Gateshead replaced Southern and Thompson with record signing Graeme Armstrong and Ben Hutchinson.  Harewood then broke from midfield to crash a shot which came back off the foot of the post and away to safety. Bowey and Chris Gate played a neat one-two and fed Phil Cave down the left who delivered a teasing centre for Dawson to collect under pressure from Armstrong. Moors then brought on Storr and Chris Lawther for Manson and Hyson respectively. Gateshead missed another gilt edge chance when Armstrong blazed over the woodwork from 6yds after excellent work from Harewood, then sub Hutchinson volleyed wide of Dawson's near post. Bowey hit a powerful free kick into the body of Dawson as full time approached. Storr wriggled away down the right hand side but fired high over the bar in a rare Moors attack.

Extra time it was and both sides struggled to create an opening in the first period of fifteen minutes, while in the second it was a similar pattern until the final minute of extra time and a possibility of a penalty shoot out when Hutchinson volleyed into the net through a crowded goalmouth to hand his side a place in the Final and send Moors home beaten but with
their heads held high.

Line-Up; Dawson, Beasley, Bishop, Ward, Foster, Wilkinson, Alderson(Robinson), Waite, Hyson(Storr), Manson(Lawther), Richards.
Subs Not Used: Ainsley, Roulston.
Supporters Man of the Match: Stuart Dawson.

Wednesday 23rd January
Northern League Division 1
Washington  1 - 2  Spennymoor

Two quick second half goals saw Spennymoor come from behind to claim a deserved win over Washington at Albany Park last night. Moors striker Jamie Clarke took his personal tally to six goals in five games since joining from Durham City last month to fire home the winner with ten minutes left on the clock. Spennymoor re-called skipper Carl Beasley for his first start in six weeks, while Steven Roberts started only his second game since November in the middle of the park and Stuart Brightwell was handed his full debut on the right of midfield. However, Richard Ward, Stuart Dawson and David Manson were all absentees from the familiar line up due to Illness and work commitments. Washington goalkeeper Lenny French was forced into an early save as Karl Richards cut in from the left but his shot was pushed away by the home keeper before Clarke also saw a close range header blocked by French as Moors controlled the early possession, but play was soon petered out with the swirling wind making it difficult for both sides and a midfield dogfight commenced. Graham Robinson was forced off early with a hamstring injury and was replaced by Adam Clough. The home side wasted a good chance midway through the half when Steve Burns ran onto Reay's through ball but he shot well wide of Niki Lawson's upright from 16yds. Washington opened the scoring just before the break when Burns again found space in the box and after his shot was saved by Lawson, Peter Watling was on hand to slot the loose ball into the net.

Moors striker Richie Storr was another casualty minutes into the second half due to a groin injury and he was replaced in attack by Matty Hyson. Washington then tested Lawson in the Moors goal with a long range shot by Watling and soon after David Lee played in Burns who was fouled by Mark Foster on the edge of the box. Lee curled the free kick around the wall but Lawson was positioned perfectly and he gathered cleanly. The turning point of the game came with fifteen minutes left on the clock as Beasley was fouled deep in the Washington half and Richards delivered a fine cross for Hyson to out jump the home defence and power a header into the top corner of French's net. Moors tails were up and the introduction of Player Manager Jason Ainsley spurred them on even further with the veteran pulling the strings in midfield. Ainsley sent a through ball over the top for Hyson to chase but Washington defender Graham Liddle slid the ball clear only as far as Richards who shrugged off the challenge from Ross Preston to tee up Clarke who swivelled and smashed a volley into the bottom corner from 12yds for the winner.  The lead should have been increased at the end when Richards, who gave Steven Jones a torrid time throughout, dribbled into the area from Ainsley's clever pass into the channel and he picked out the unmarked Brightwell at the back post who scuffed his shot wide with the goal at his mercy.

Line-Up: Lawson, Beasley(Ainsley), Bishop, Roberts, Foster, Wilkinson, Brightwell, Robinson(Clough), Clarke, Storr(Hyson), Richards.
Sub Not Used: Davis.
Supporters Man of the Match: Karl Richards.

Saturday 12th January
Northern League Division 1
Spennymoor  1 - 3  Durham City

Spennymoor's five game unbeaten run and excellent start to 2008 came to an end when league leaders Durham City claimed revenge for Moors knocking them out of the Durham Challenge Cup on Tuesday night with a deserved 3-1 victory, played on a heavy Brewery Field pitch.

Former Spennymoor striker Adam Johnston, who had scored 24 goals for the Moors this season, came back to haunt his former club with a splendid hat-trick to leave Moors licking their wounds at the final whistle.  Moors made two changes to Tuesday's win at The Archibalds Stadium with goalkeeper Niki Lawson replacing Stuart Dawson and Jamie Clarke coming in for David Manson up front. New signing Stuart Brightwell had to be content with a place on the bench.

The early play was dominated by Durham with live wire Stephen Capper running a mock, while on the other flank John Toft posed another big threat with his direct play. Lawson made a terrific save from Steven Richardson's point blank header following Stephen Harrison's excellent centre. Moors struggled to get into the game and when they did were reduced to long balls over the top for Clarke to run onto. Durham City opened the scoring on 15 minutes when Johnston picked up the ball inside the area and turned Neil Wilkinson before lashing a shot across Lawson into the bottom corner. Richardson found himself off side on numerous occasions with the Moors playing a tight back line against the pacy front man.

The more the half wore on, the more Spennymoor came into it and after lengthy spells of possession, the leveller came eight minutes before the break. Nick Scaife's 22yd free-kick was only half cleared and Clarke was on hand to fire into the net via a deflection from City defender Richard Smith. Graham Robinson then broke from midfield but was ushered out wide by City defender Andy Bowes. Richie Storr had a half chance blocked and Harrison got back to clear the ball from the line from Karl Richards' shot which deceived John Mohan in the City goal, before Johnston tried his luck from 30yds which brought a fine one handed save from Lawson who tipped the ball over the woodwork.

Moors kicked down the slope in the second period, and after finishing the first half the stronger team, the odds were in their favour but City were back in front two minutes from the re start as Capper's cross was blocked and the ball soon came back over to Johnston who nodded into the net to regain the initiative. City's tails were up and Toft then burst clear but fired wide of Lawson's left hand post, as did Richardson following good play by Keith Graydon. Moors then brought on Stuart Brightwell for his debut and he replaced Scaife. Moors had a golden opportunity to level the scores when Brightwell crossed for Storr who planted a free header into Mohan and City cleared their lines. That save from Mohan was pivotal as the lead was extended when Toft and Capper combined for Johnston to pick the loose ball up and stroke it into the net to complete his hat-trick.  Spennymoor's Storr then raced clear and collided with the out rushing City keeper Mohan and with both players on the floor the referee awarded a free kick to the moors and yellow carded Mohan. Richards' powerful free kick was fired into the wall. Moors then threw on Manson to salvage something from the game but it proved to be a tall order as City held out for a deserved win and make amends for their midweek defeat to the Moors.

 
Line-Up: Lawson, Roulston, Bishop, Ward, Foster (Roberts), Wilkinson, Scaife (Brightwell), Robinson, Clarke, Storr (Manson), Richards.
Subs Not Used: Ainsley, Beasley.
Supporters Man of the Match: Craig Bishop

Tuesday 8th January
Durham Senior Cup - Quarter Final
Durham City 0 - 1  Spennymoor

Spennymoor marched into the Semi-Finals of the Durham Challenge Cup with a deserved victory over league leaders Durham City at the Archibalds Stadium. A Craig Bishop goal on 15 minutes proved sufficient to send a determined Moors side through to the Semi-Final. Moors made two changes to their line-up that drew at Chester-Le-Street on Saturday. Nick Scaife replaced Jason Ainsley in midfield and David Manson replaced the cup-tied Jamie Clarke up front.

Spennymoor made an excellent start with the wind against their backs and should have opened the scoring in the early exchanges when Graham Robinson picked up a pass from David Manson inside the Durham area and he in turn slipped the ball into the path of the unmarked Karl Richards who took a touch before blazing his shot high over the woodwork. Nick Scaife then hit a powerful 25yd free kick which was tipped over the bar by Durham keeper John Mohan. It came as no surprise when Spennymoor opened the scoring on the quarter hour mark when Richards delivered an inswinging corner which Craig Bishop side footed into the net from close range. Robinson almost made it two when his shot from just outside the area was blocked by Durham keeper Mohan with his legs and Moors then forced four corners in succession all to no avail. Durham started to come out of their shell as the half wore on and Steven Richardson advanced into the area but his shot was blocked by the outstanding Neil Wilkinson in the Moors defence. The resulting corner by Keith Graydon was headed wide by Jimmy Farrell. The half drew to a close with Durham's Stephen Capper switching the ball across to Stewart Morris who cut inside the box but Spennymoor keeper Stuart Dawson saved well low down to his right and Mark Foster cleared the ball to safety.

It was pretty much even at the start of the second period with Durham's Calvin Smith shooting well wide from distance and Graydon wasted two quick free kicks from dangerous areas. Manson raced upfield with the ball after Richie Storr won the ball from John Butler and his low cross was sliced away by Andy Bowes. Manson's corner was headed over by Foster who rose highest in the area. The industrious Bishop, who covered every inch of the pitch, was involved once again when he dispossed Graydon and fed Scaife who surged forward but Bowes' sliding tackle prevented a goalscoring chance. A heavy downpour of hailstones came from the sky and Referee Colin Webster took the players off the pitch for their safety and after a short time the adverse weather blew over and the players were soon back on the field to continue in swirling wind. Durham piled on the pressure with Farell, Richardson and Morris all going close but Spennymoor's resolute defence of Ward, Wilkinson and Foster refused to buckle and stood firm for an excellent win they thoroughly deserved.

Line-Up: Dawson, Roulston, Bishop, Ward, Foster, Wilkinson, Scaife, Robinson, Manson, Storr, Richards.
Subs Not Used: Beasley, Richardson, Clough, Hyson, Alderson.
Supporters Man of the Match: Craig Bishop

Saturday 5th January
Northern League Division 1
Chester-le-Street 1 - 1  Spennymoor

Despite dominating for long spells, Spennymoor were forced to settle for a point at Chester Le Street in the ANL Division One. Jamie Clarke's fourth goal in three games on 20 minutes cancelled out the Cestrians early goal in an excellent performance from the Moors who found home keeper Josh Carmaichael in fine form. Manager Jason Ainsley kept the same side that beat West Auckland a fortnight ago which was the Moors' last outing due to last weeks postponement against Morpeth Town. 

The Cestrians produced the early form and twice Mark Anderson fired straight at Moors keeper Stuart Dawson from distance but the threat was down the left hand side via Sam McIntosh who caused havoc to the Moors defence. Spennymoor had a good chance themselves as Jason Ainsley's corner was met by Graham Robinson but the ball was scrambled away and hacked down field as Jamie Clarke and Richie Storr were waiting to pounce.  The opening goal came to the Cestrians when a deep free-kick by Colin Wake was deflected in the danger area past a wrong footed Stuart Dawson who seemed to have the initial shot covered before the deflection.  Spennymoor forced another corner when Karl Richards surged into the box but Andy Cutherbertson raced back to slide the ball out. Jason Ainsley's teasing corner failed to pick anyone out and it went out for a goal kick.  Another raid by the marauding Sam McIntosh saw him wastefully shoot wide after cutting inside the box then Daniel Craggs fired straight at Stuart Dawson from 25yds. Chester had a shout for a penalty when Johnny Wightman looked to be pulled back in the area by Neil Wilkinson but Sunderland Referee Billy Khatib waved away all the Cestrians appeals.  Soon after, the scores were level when Richards delivered the ball into the area which Richie Storr flicked on and Jamie Clarke headed over the stranded Josh Carmichael in the Chester goal to the delight of the travelling army behind the goal.  Moors applied all the pressure with Graham Robinson, Craig Bishop and Jason Ainsley dictating play from Midfield and Jamie Clarke twisted and turned on the edge of the area but his shot went wide of the post. Richie Storr then shot over while at the other end Johnny Wightman toe poked a through ball wide of the mark. 

The second half was totally dominated by Spennymoor, with chances coming at a premium. Jamie Clarke saw a near post header acrobatically tipped around the post by Josh Carmichael, Richard Ward saw a free header cleared off the line following a Karl Richards corner and Richie Storr burst clear but sliced his effort wide. Jason Ainsley replaced himself with Steven Roberts, then David Manson replaced Graham Robinson to prolong a three man attack. Manson was soon in the thick of the action when a scramble in the Chester area saw the sub fire a shot that was again blocked on the line by a home defender. Karl Richards outpaced the home defence to fire a shot across the face of goal which Richie Storr and Jamie Clarke were only inches away from getting a touch and putting it into the net. One final chance in stoppage time for the Moors saw Jamie Clarke disposes Scott Donaldson and his 16yd fiercely driven shot was again tipped around the post by Josh Carmichael.  Spennymoor must take alot of positives out of the game for the tough looking quarter final Durham Challenge Cup tie at league leaders Durham City on Tuesday night as today's second half showing was up amongst Spennymoor's best this season.

 
Line-Up: Dawson, Roulston, Bishop, Ward, Foster, Wilkinson, Ainsley (Roberts), Robinson (Manson), Clarke, Storr, Richards
Subs Not Used: Lawson, Clough, Hyson
Supporters Man of the Match: Mark Foster

Saturday 22nd December
Northern League Division 1
Spennymoor  2 - 1  West Auckland

Spennymoor returned to winning ways with a hard fought win over ten-men West Auckland at The Brewery Field. Moors came back from a goal behind with two goals inside five minutes in the second half after ten-men West Auckland took a shock lead with just over 20 minutes remaining.
Spennymoor were without Graham Robinson, Nicky Scaife and Shaun Ross while Stuart Dawson replaced Niki Lawson between the sticks.

A scrappy opening half saw both sides squander chances when first Jamie Clarke volleyed straight at Auckland keeper Alan Wilkinson from 12 yards after the ball fell kindly to his feet, then Dale Jardine for West put a diving header inches wide of Dawson's post. Jardine did have the ball in the back of the net but Tyneside referee Seb Stockbridge blew his whistle for handball.  Richie Storr saw a shot well saved by Wilkinson before a major turning point of the game came on 31 minutes. West defender Michael Heckley was red-carded for his challenge on Karl Richards who crashed into concrete wall and split his head open. A mass melee followed which also saw three players booked and Richards returned onto the field sporting a head band. The Auckland defence held out for the remainder of the half as Moors threatened to run riot.

The Moors came out the second half kicking down the slope and piled on the pressure but Wilkinson was equal to everything. He was beaten on 56 minutes after Jamie Clarke crossed for Storr to head against the underside of the bar and Darren Roulston fired the loose ball into the side netting. The opening goal arrived on 67 minutes for the ten men visitors when a deep cross was fumbled by Moors keeper Stuart Dawson and Scott Nicholson stooped low to head into the net.  Spennymoor replaced Roulston with David Manson to prolong a three man attack and it paid dividends minutes later when a poor back pass by West skipper Brian Fairhurst allowed Clarke to nip in and round Wilkinson to slot into an empty net.

Spennymoor were soon in their stride and it was no surprise when the winner came as Clarke and Storr saw shots blocked and Manson was on hand to score from close range to ignite mass celebrations for the home supporters. It was almost three in the dying minutes as Clarke dribbled into the area but Wilkinson blocked low down to his left. The final whistle came with Spennymoor collecting a welcome three points and moving up two places in the league table to eleventh.

 
Line-Up: Dawson, Roulston (Manson), Bishop, Ward, Foster, Wilkinson, Ainsley (Roberts), Clough, Clarke, Storr, Richards.
Subs Not Used: Lawson, Davis, Richardson. 
Supporters Man of the Match: Karl Richards.

Wednesday 18th December
Northern League Division 1
Ashington  2 - 2  Spennymoor

A Jamie Clarke brace on his Moors debut was not enough for Spennymoor to earn a deserved win on their trip to Ashington in the Arngrove Northern League Division One on Tuesday night. A much changed Moors side clawed their way back into the game after been two goals down by the half hour mark, and after an excellent second half showing they were unable to find a winner so were forced to settle for a point in an entertaining game. Moors boss Jason Ainsley named himself in the starting line up for only his third appearance of the season due to Karl Richards' unavailability and the returning Matty Hyson had to settle for a place on the bench. Neil Wilkinson replaced the departing Ian Dixon in defence for the other change to the side that drew with Seaham Red Star last week.

Not for the first time this season, Spennymoor started the much livelier side and Jamie Clarke had the ball in the back of the net after six minutes but the linesman's flag was raised and it was ruled out. Graham Robinson then exchanged passes with Jason Ainsley but fired wide of the mark.  The opening goal came against the run of play when Ashington were awarded a free kick from 25yds out and captain David Tremble hit a powerful drive that Moors keeper Niki Lawson somehow fumbled into the roof of the net for an unlikely goal. This goal spurred the hosts on which they gained confidence and it was no surprise when some neat exchanges of passing brought a fine cross from the left for Liam Atkin to plant a header into the far corner of the net and put Ashington firmly into the driving seat with a two goal cushion. Three minutes before half time, however, Moors were given a lifeline when Robinson made an excellent run into the box and found Richie Storr, who inturn slipped the ball into the path of Jamie Clarke to take a touch and fire low into the net.

Moors started the second half the way they left the first with Storr and Clarke linking up well and it was the latter who ran through on goal only to be brought down by Ashington keeper Paul Simpson and Cramlington Referee David Burn had no option but to point to the spot and award Spennymoor a penalty. Burn also choose to yellow card Simpson while many thought it was a sending off offence. Clarke stepped up to cooly slot home the penalty and send Simpson the wrong way. Moments  ater, Craig Bishop had a golden chance to score when he found space in the box but his low right foot shot was well saved by Simpson. The lively Cockburn for Ashington was the main threat the hosts had to offer but Lawson produced only one stop in the second half as The Moors dictated and dominated in long spells. Clarke had another chance for his hat-trick when he burst into the box following an excellent through ball by the outstanding Nick Scaife, but his powerful shot went high and wide. Scaife then delivered a fine set-piece which only needed a touch but fizzed inched wide of the post before he crossed for Storr who mis-kicked in front of goal, but soon after the games best chance came as Storr capitalised on an error by Tremble and after twisting and turning in the area he shot tamely at Simpson from 12yds. Ashington had probably the last chance to snatch a winner near the end when a deep cross cum shot was cleared off the line by Wilkinson with Lawson stranded.

Line-Up: Lawson, Clough, Bishop, Ward, Foster, Wilkinson, Ainsley, Robinson, Clarke, Storr, Scaife.
Subs Not Used: Manson, Hyson, Roberts, Ross, Davis.
Supporters Man of the match: Jamie Clarke.

Saturday 8th December
Northern League Division 1
Seaham Red Star  2 - 2  Spennymoor

Spennymoor halted a run of two straight defeats to earn a creditable draw at a rain drenched Seaham Red Star on Saturday. Moors welcomed back goalkeeper Niki Lawson in the line-up and Graham Robinson replaced Shaun Ross in midfield. Skipper Carl Beasley's niggling injury also saw him miss out and he was replaced by player coach Darren Roulston at right back. Mark Foster took over the captains armband.  A Positive start by Spennymoor should have seen the a goal up as early as the fifth minute when Nick Scaife's rasping drive from 22yds was dropped by Seaham keeper Keith Finch and the ball looked to have crossed the line but the officials weren't in a position to give a goal - much to the fury of the Spennymoor players and supporters.  Still Spennymoor continued to be on the ascendancy and a delightful cross by Karl Richards saw Adam Johnston volley wide of the goal from 8yds. Moments later, Richards was again the provider when his floated cross was met by Graham Robinson who headed into the arms of Finch.  Seaham's first real effort came when the lively Chris Bell cut in from the right and his lay off saw Warren Byrne fire tamelessly at Lawson in the Moors goal. Roulston had a half chance to open his moors account when a loose ball came out to him but his shot went over the woodwork. Spennymoor's recent bad luck seemed to come back again when Johnston turned quickly on the edge of the box and saw his shot come back off Finch's post and the resulting attack saw Red Star take the lead when Bell burst clear and his shot looped over Lawson and into the net from 25yds for a fine individual goal. Lawson then blocked a Lee Chapman drive and soon after pushed a Byrne drive round the post for a corner. Seaham's former Hartlepool play maker Stephen Halliday then saw a free header go wide from the resulting set piece. Spennymoor then had another chance when Richard Storr made space in the box from Richards' pass but couldn't turn and the lay off was blocked by the Seaham defence.

The Second period seemed to open the game out and it provided end to end attacking football with Spennymoor finding themselves on level terms as Storr picked up a Johnston pass inside the area to fire into the net past Finch. Seaham were then awarded a penalty after Karl Richards' lunge on Craig Price inside the area. Former Spennymoor striker Warren Byrne stepped up but wastefully blazed his shot wide of the goal.

To the despair of Seaham, Spennymoor soon went 2-1 in front when Johnston was set up by Foster in the box and he took a touch before volleying in past a crowd of players which saw the ball deflected past Finch.
Spennymoor continued to let themselves down which has happened so many times this season once they have scored and again they switched off when Seaham had a free kick and Price took it quickly and Byrne was left clear on goal to give Lawson no chance and make it two each.
Another turning point of the game came when Richards broke clear of the Red Star defence and his shot was only parried by Finch and again the ball looked to have crossed the line but the linesman was perfectly placed and Finch got back to gather.
The Moors were then reliant on Lawson in goal as he twice saved from Byrne and Price in as many minutes. Richard Ward then blocked a Byrne shot with his head and then got back to block a goal bound shot off the line as the hosts threatened deep in The moors half.
Seaham replaced Byrne with giant striker Jennings and Spennymoor replaced Storr with Manson and Scaife with Clough but the remaining minutes were played out without any side troubling either keeper and happy to take a point each out of an entertaining game.
 
Line-Up: Lawson, Roulston, Bishop, Ward, Foster, Dixon, Storr(Manson), Robinson, Richards, Johnston, Scaife(Clough).
Subs Not Used: Ainsley, Ross, Wilkinson. 

Saturday 1st December
Northern League Division 1
Tow Law Town  2 - 0  Spennymoor

Spennymoor travelled up to third placed Tow Law Town on Saturday in search of their second away win of the season but their trip proved unsuccessful as the home side scored in each half to take the points. Spennymoor were left to rue missed chances in a game they controlled throughout with Lawyers keeper Andrew Allen thwarting everything the Moors had in front of goal. The Moors welcomed back Carl Beasley, Mark Foster and Karl Richards in the line up while Graham Robinson had to settle for a place on the bench allowing Nick Scaife to start his third successive game. 

The slippery and saturated surface made it difficult for either side to make an early impression and the first significant chance came when Adam Johnston tried his luck from 25yds which ended in the ball hitting the inside of the post and rolling away to safety with the home keeper beaten. The Moors were in control and a cross by Shaun Ross saw Richie Storr plant a free header into the arms of the Tow Law keeper from 6yds. Against the run of play, a long ball from defence by Tow Law saw Carl Beasley miss-judge it and Kraig Wilkinson nipped in to calmly side foot past Stuart Dawson into the corner of the net. Moors still pushed on at every opportunity and another chance came when clever play by Adam Johnston saw his shot turned around the post by Allen. A free kick by Nick Scaife was saved again by Allen and Mark Foster's powerful shot saw it blocked, then Storr's effort was blocked on the line and cleared to safety.

Second half saw Spennymoor continue in the same fashion with Johnston the main threat and his surge in the box ended in Allen blocking with his arm following a powerful drive. Allen again halted Karl Richards floated centre with Ian Dixon waiting in the wings. Excellent work again by man of the match Johnston ended in his shot from 10 yards been acrobatically pushed around the post by Allen. The turning point of the game came when Tow Law defender Hutt clearly handled the ball inside the box from Ross' cross but Referee JP Devine waved away all Spennymoor's appeals. One minute later, the home lead was doubled as Marc Eccles crossed for Lee Inness to bundle the ball over the line after Dawson hesitated in the Moors goal. Moors still created chances when Richards broke clear down the left and when his cross was only half cleared, Richard Ward saw his volley cleared inside the six yard box then Dixon and Ward both went for the same Richards cross and the ball went for a goal kick. Tow law did have the ball in the net again but the Referee disallowed it for a foul on Dawson. Moors' Johnston had one final chance and his effort was tipped around the post by Allen as the game ended in a cruel one for the visitors who on the balance of play and chances created should have got something from the game. 

 
Line-Up: Dawson, Beasley (Roulston), Bishop, Ward, Foster, Dixon, Ross (Robinson), Storr (Manson), Richards, Johnston, Scaife.
Subs Not Used: Ainsley, Wilkinson.

Saturday 25th November
Northern League Division 1
Spennymoor  2 - 3  Chester-le-Street (AET)

Spennymoor Town's Roller-Coaster season took another turn last night when they were surprisingly knocked out of the Arngrove Northern League Cup 3rd Round by Chester Le Street at The Brewery Field.  Moors have now exited in two cup competitions in the space of a week and have only the Newton Moor Durham Challenge Cup to play for in January as their hopes for silverware this season are disappearing fast. This defeat comes against a side that Spennymoor had already beat 5-0 back in August.  Spennymoor made one change to the side that held Champions Whitley Bay to a goalless draw at the weekend with Ian Dixon replacing Karl Richards.  Chester Le Street started the better side and Scott Emmerson played a great one-two with Mark Anderson but his finish lacked guide and it flew wide of Stuart Dawson's far post. Moors struggled in midfield  and Chester continued to press but failed to find a way past Dawson.  The opening goal came against the run of play on 31 Minutes when Shaun Ross found space on the edge of the area and his scintillating drive went into the bottom corner of the net. It should have been 2-0 minutes later when Ian Dixon rose unchallenged to powerfully head home but this effort was ruled out by a linesman's flag - much to the dispute of the Spennymoor players and supporters.  Chester were handed a lifeline shortly before the break when a corner by Daniel Craggs was handled by a Moors player and the Referee Tony Smith pointed to the spot. Andrew Cutherbertson stepped up to score and make it 1-1.

At half time Nicky Scaife was replaced by Graham Robinson. The second period started with Chester having the upper hand while Spennymoor failed to create any chances in front of goal and it came as no surprise when Emmerson of Chester Le Street raced clear past a static Moors defence to confidently slam home past the advancing Dawson to give the visitors the advantage at 2-1.  Moors played some neat football afterwards and got their rewards on 77 Minutes when Craig Bishop played in Adam Johnston who volleyed a superb effort over the Chester Keeper and into the top corner to make it Spennymoor 2-2 Chester Le Street. Chester then replaced Emmerson with Tony Healer on 81 Minutes. With extra time looming, Moors should have won it when firstly Johnston blazed over the woodwork from inside the area, then substitute David Manson found space but pulled his shot back across the face of goal without testing the keeper. Moors did have the ball in the back of the net when Ian Dixon stabbed the ball home in a goalmouth scramble but again the linesman had his flag raised and Chester breathed a sigh of relief.  Into extra time and Chester brought on Jonny Wightman for Scott Donaldson in the first period with neither side threatening to break through. Moors did hit the bar through Adam Johnston's cross cum shot while Chester  also hit the woodwork and post through Anderson. Chester had a golden opportunity to score when Wightman completely miss kicked in front of goal and then Draper fired over the loose ball. Just as it seemed the tired legs of both sets of players were prepared to face penalties, Chester got the winner in the second period of extra time when Craggs broke clear down the right and his precise delivery found Healer who headed into the net and raced clear to celebrate with his team mates.  The drama did not stop there as a fracas broke out near the visitors dug-out and the Referee sent off Emmerson - who had already been substituted earlier in the game - and Manager Stuart Sherwood was then sent to the stands as the game reached boiling point and the final whistle soon came to spark off mass celebrations by the visitors and they progress into the last 8 of the competition.

Line-Up: Dawson, Noble, Bishop, Wilkinson(Manson), Ward, Dixon, Clough, Storr, Ross, Johnston, Scaife(Robinson).
Not Used: Beasley, Ainsley, Roulston.

Saturday 25th November
Northern League Division 1
Spennymoor  0 - 0  Whitley Bay

Spennymoor were held to a goalless draw at home to Whitley Bay at the weekend. For the second consecutive Saturday, Spennymoor failed to find the net but the outcome of the game against ANL champions Whitley Bay was a fair one as both sides battled well throughout in difficult conditions.  Moors were without the services of Graham Robinson, Carl Beasley and Mark Foster through Injury, while Ian Dixon missed the opportunity to face his old club due to suspension.
 
Spennymoor had the edge in the opening minutes with the lively Shaun Ross in the thick of the action down the right channel. The first chance came when Matt Noble released Karl Richards and his cross picked out Ross at the far post who unselfishly pulled the ball back across the face of goal where Bay Captain David Coulson cleared.
 
Spennymoor keeper Stuart Dawson, who had a fine game, saved brilliantly from Lee Kerr's powerful drive from the edge of the box after excellent work by Paul Robinson as Bay began to get on top possession wise but failed to trouble the Moors back line.  Against the run of play, The Moors almost opened the scoring when a free kick from 22yds by Ross was fired into the wall and his follow up produced a fine one handed save from Terry Burke who pushed the ball round the upright for a corner.

Bay came out the second half with all guns blazing and Kerr combined with Robinson but saw Richard Ward get back to block, then Kerr broke free but fired wide. Bay substitute Christian Graham then found space down the right following hesitation by Craig Bishop and his pin point cross was met by Paul Chow who saw Moors keeper Dawson tip over the bar from point blank range.  Adam Johnston, man marked throughout by Brian Rowe, wriggled away deep in the Bay half and his left foot shot curled inches wide of the stranded Burke's right post. Karl Richards made some impressive runs but his excellent deliveries were well cleared by the Bay defence as the game petered out with both defences on top.
 
Line-up: Dawson, Noble, Bishop, Wilkinson, Ward, Ross, Clough, Storr, Richards, Johnston, Scaife.
Subs Not Used: Ainsley, Manson, Robinson, Roulston, Escritt. 
Supporters Man of the match: Richard Ward.

Saturday 17th November
FA Vase 2nd Round
Spennymoor  0 - 0  Dunston Federation

Spennymoor and Dunston Federation must replay on Tuesday night in The F.A.Vase 2nd Round after both failed to score past well organised defences in 120 minutes of Football at a freezing cold Brewery Field.
Moors boss Jason Ainsley included himself in the starting line up in place of the ineligible Matt Noble and Niki Lawson returned between the sticks after missing the midweek cup win over Darlington.
Dunston started the better side and forced an early corner but it was cleared to safety and then saw Lawson save well from a shot on the turn by Scott Swainston. The Fed's formation of 4-5-1 meant it was difficult for Spennymoor to get any rhythm going or play down the channels but the home side came the closest to the opening goal when Richie Storr saw his downward header cleared off the line with Clark the Dunston keeper beaten.

Storr had another chance when Clark misjudged a cross by Karl Richards but he failed to connect. The half ended in a midfield dogfight with neither side testing their opposite keeper.

Both defences were on top so it was no suprise chances came at a minimum and when they did come Clark and Lawson dealt with them comfortably. Lawson especially made a splendid save after Steve Preen raced clear his shot was pushed away for a corner by the Moors keeper. Lawson then saved with his foot from a shot inside the area. however, Spennymoor's golden opportunity came when a long ball from defence saw Clark the Dunston keeper race out of his box to head clear but the ball only went as far as Craig Bishop who returned the ball goal bound but Michael Laws acrobatically cleared from 6yds with the ball heading for the net.

Extra time commenced and during the 30 minutes of play, the closest both sides came to scoring was Dunston's Lee Ludlow when his curling effort came back off the post and was cleared by the Moors defence.

Line-Up: Lawson, Roulston, Bishop, Beasley, Foster, Dixon, Ainsley(Clough), Robinson(Scaife), Richards, Johnston, Storr(Manson).
Subs Not Used: Wilkinson, Ross.

Wednesday 14th November
Durham Senior Cup 2nd Round
Spennymoor  2 - 0  Darlington Reserves

Adam Johnston's 19th & 20th goals of the season ensured Spennymoor Town's progression into the Quarter Finals of the Durham Senior Cup against Darlington Reserves at the Brewery Field on Wednesday evening.  Moors handed a debut to goalkeeper Stuart Dawson, while Richie Storr returned to the attack in place of Steven Roberts, as did Craig Bishop who replaced Darren Roulston. Carl Beasley made his first appearance since August following his knee op.  Darlington included two players with first team experience, while the remainder was made up of youth team players. Spennymoor made an explosive start to the game and completely controlled proceedings with some fine football and aggression. The opening goal came on 5 Minutes when Adam Johnston turned his marker near the half way line and rifled the ball over the head of Darlington keeper Nick Liversedge and into the net. Moments later, It was two when some fantastic football by Craig Bishop, Graham Robinson and Adam Clough ended with Matt Noble delivering a teasing cross which Johnston made no mistake with from close range to send the home crowd into euphoria.  Darlington tried to hit back with Shaun Reay firing wide of Dawson's goal and then Lewis Hardman fired well over. Karl Richards made some promising runs and found opponent Scott Wiseman a difficult test but still had the upper hand over the pacy defender midway through the first half and his cross almost picked out Robinson but Kevin Burgess cleared the danger.Darlington came out the second half the brighter side and created the first chance when Hardman's shot was tipped over the bar by Dawson and then Dawson did well to save Reay's flick on at the near post. The Moors introduced David Manson in place of Richie Storr, and Nick Scaife, Darren Roulston replaced Carl Beasley & skipper Mark Foster respectively.  Moors had a chance to increase their lead but Karl Richards shot wide as he advanced into the area, then Johnston miscued from just inside the penalty area.  Darlington piled forward in the final moments but couldn't break down a resolute Moors who now face Durham City in the last eight in January.

Line-Up: Dawson, Noble, Bishop, Beasley (Scaife), Foster (Roulston), Dixon, Clough, Robinson, Richards, Johnston, Storr (Manson).
Subs Not Used: Ainsley, Davis.
Supporters Man of the match: Adam Johnston

Saturday 10th November
Northern League Division 1
Spennymoor  0 - 1  Billingham Synthonia

Spennymoor lost their unbeaten home record when Billingham Synthonia produced a smash and grab raid on a wind swept Brewery Field. Moors were without Richie Storr and Craig Bishop while boss Jason Ainsley handed a debut to Steven Roberts from Norton & Stockton Ancients up front. David Manson dropped to the bench and Matt Noble went into Midfield.

Synners had most of the early possession but lacked in the final third while Moors were reduced to long range efforts which failed to trouble Gary Riches in the Synthonia goal. The deadlock was almost broken after 10 minutes when a back pass by Ian Dixon to Niki Lawson saw the Moors keeper slip over and Darren Roulston did well to block a shot from Colin Iley but the ball fell loose to Lee Flanagan who's shot came back off the crossbar and into Lawson's arms. Shortly after, new boy Roberts had a golden opportunity to score for Spennymoor when he found himself clear on goal following a superb pass by Matt Noble but his touch was too strong and Riches smothered at his feet. Synners' Brian Close also let fly from 25yds which Lawson did well to parry round the post, then Roberts, again, had another chance to score inside the box but Shaun Hope blocked his shot as the game swung from end to end.

The second period saw Moors have the first significant chance when Noble burst from midfield and cut inside but his left foot strike went wide of the mark. Roberts then had a header saved by Riches while at the other end James Beaumont saw his shot come back off the inside of the post and scrambled away to safety. Chris Lawther replaced Roberts for Spennymoor. Moors top scorer Adam Johnston twisted and turned in the box which ended in his cross cum shot been tipped over the bar by Riches and then Karl Richards' pin point cross picked out Graham Robinson who's free header went straight into Riches hands from 6yds. The winner came on 81 minutes when a foul just outside the box gave Simon Shaw the chance to curl the ball around the wall and into the net with Lawson stranded. Neil Campbell replaced Joel Guy for Synners and David Manson replaced Darren Roulston for Spennymoor. Moors then threw caution to the wind and forced six corners in succession but Riches denied every opportunity with safe handling and Synners held out for the win.

 
Line up: Lawson, Roulston(Manson), Wilkinson, Ward, Foster, Dixon, Noble, Robinson, Roberts(Lawther), Johnston, Richards.
Subs Not Used: Ainsley, Clough, Davis.
 

Wednesday 8th November
Northern League Division 1
Spennymoor  3 - 1  Northallerton Town

Spennymoor's impressive unbeaten home record continued last night when they defeated Northallerton Town 3-1 at The Brewery Field. The Moors have now won 13 at home and drawn 2 out of a possible 15 games in all competitions.  Manager Jason Ainsley handed a debut to on-loan Doncaster Rovers defender Matt Noble and he impressed along with Mark Foster, Graham Robinson, Karl Richards and Adam Johnston as The Moors came from a goal behind to run out comfortable winners on the night. 

Northallerton made a dream start when Luke Bythway latched onto a long ball and his shot took a deflection off Moors defender Richie Ward and fizzed over the head of Niki Lawson who could do little to prevent the goal.  Northallerton made it difficult for Spennymoor to get a foot hold of the game as the 4-5-1 formation played by the visitors halted any rhythm Spennymoor tried to play. However, Graham Robinson put a superb ball over the top for David Manson to chase with defender John Barker and Manson got in behind but shot wide with only Jack Norton to beat. The first period ended with Spennymoor on level terms with virtually the last kick of the half as Adam Johnston turned on the edge of the box and lashed the ball into the near corner of the net.  Kicking down the slope in the second period, it didn't take Spennymoor long to stamp their authority on the game as possibly the goal of the season followed when Karl Richards picked up the ball in his own half and then ran at the visitors defence skipping past three challenges and delivering an inch perfect cross from the by-line for Adam Johnston to volley in his 18th goal of the season.  Northallerton then had to come more at the Moors and Spennymoor keeper Niki Lawson made two fantastic saves to keep the lead intact before substitute Richie Storr cut into the box and pulled the ball back for Matt Noble to side foot into the net with three minutes remaining.The win moves The Moors closer to the top of the league with games in handover the teams above them.

Line-up: Lawson, Noble, Wilkinson, Ward, Foster, Dixon, Ross(Clough), Robinson, Manson(Storr), Johnston, Richards.
Subs Not Used: Ainsley, Lawther, Davis.
Supporters Man of the match: Karl Richards
 

Saturday 3rd November
Northern League Division 1
Jarrow Roofing  0 - 5  Spennymoor

Spennymoor got the monkey off their back with their first away win of the season at Jarrow Roofing.  Adam Johnston opened the scoring firing powerfully into the roof of the net and then doubled Spennymoor's advantage just before half time.  The second half continued where the first left off with the presence of the boss Jason Ainsley and Graham Robinson combining with Karl Richards on the left wing, it wasn't long before Spennymoor and Adam Johnston got their 3rd, Karl Richards fired home from 20 yards into the bottom corner which left the keeper with no chance and Richie Storr capped off a great result after he capitalised on a mistake from the Jarrow keeper.

It could be fair to say that the rest of Spennymoor's season has started after today. Spennymoor face Northallerton  and then Billingham Synthonia both in league competition at home this coming Wednesday and Saturday respectively.

Tuesday 9th October
Northern League Division 1
Spennymoor  0 - 0  Consett

Spennymoor lost their 100% home record but remain unbeaten after an exciting and entertaining goal less draw on Tuesday night. Both teams started at pace but it was Spennymoor who created the first chance as Richards cross fell to Ross who shot well but over the bar this was followed by a chance for the visitors but Ben Escritt was equal to the effort by Pounder. With Consett looking very physically strong, good in possession and strong in the challenge it was clear from the outset that this would be Spennymoor's toughest test of the season. Spennymoor's strike partnership of Johnston and Manson combined to make a shooting chance for Manson who's weak shot on the turn worked Turns in the Consett goal with the game fiercely contested chances were few and far between but in the first half the best of them fell to Spennymoor with Ross shooting over the bar, Johnston working the keeper from a short corner, and the bar being hit when Manson capitalise when the Consett defender failed to deal with a ball which should have been cleared and Richards blasting his shot low and wide after running half the pitch leaving defenders in his wake.

The second half continued to be played at a good pace, Karl Richards cause some anxiety as he uncharacteristically stayed down after a challenge with Robson, but to the relief of supporters and players alike he was up and running again after treatment from Physio Andy Oates. Consett should have taken the lead when defensive indecision allowed S Johnson in only for him to fire the ball over the bar.  Consett went on to apply some fairly intense pressure but could not convert it into goals due to the brave and resolute defending of Foster, Ward, Bishop and Wilkinson supplemented by the doggedness and tenacity of Dixon. The move of the match came when Manson, Ross and Johnston created a chance for Karl Richards but the finish didn't do justice to the rest of the move. Spennymoor were forced back into defensive mode with Consett in search of a winning goal which might have came had Moffatt not headed a good chance against the bar after rising well against his marker. The last ten minutes saw lots of Consett pressure but the Moors rearguard were equal to everything thrown at them. When Richie Ward thwarted their final attack and the ball launched via route one to the opposite end Spennmoor could have nicked the game as Adam Johnston unopposed at the back post headed poorly to leave the game 0-0.

Line-up: Escritt, Wilkinson, Bishop, Ward, Foster, Dixon, Ross, Robinson, Manson, Johnston, Richards
Subs: Clough, Thompson, Clark, Ainsley, Roulston
Supporters Man of the Match: Richards

Saturday 6th October
FA Vase 1st Round
Spennymoor  3 - 1  Marske United

Spennymoor bounced back from their FA Cup nightmare in Lancashire with a comfortable 3 -1 win over Northern League Division 2 Marske United in the FA Vase.

Spennymoor started brightly and had a couple of early chances with Manson heading over from a Karl Richards cross and Graham Robinson firing a shot over the bar from 20 yards. The deadlock was broken on the quarter hour after Karl Richards expertly turned his marker on the half way line before embarking on one of his trademark runs down the left flank then firing in an inch perfect cross for Adam Johnston to rise and head home. With the lead taken Spennymoor then took control of the game turning good possession into chances a couple falling to David Manson who swept a shot wide then flicked a header wide from a Richards cross.  On the half hour and against the run of play Marske equalised through Roberts after a both Dixon and Wilkinson failed to halt the run of McPhillips. Geared up by the goal Marske enjoyed a spell of possession and pressure although the Moors defence were able to repel any real threat. Just before the break debutant Sean Ross curled a shot wide after a neatly taken corner and a Karl Richards shot worked the visitors keeper.

Moors re-took the lead on 51 minutes with Johnston's well taken penalty. Marske could and maybe should have restored parity from the restart as they raced into the Spennymoor half unopposed to fire in a, thankfully, poor attempt on goal. Having recovered from this little scare Spennymoor turned the screw and grasped control of the game again, after a period of good possession the fit again Adam Johnston was denied a hat trick  by Vickers who will have been grateful to see his defence scramble the ball away. 66 minutes saw the introduction of Chris Lawther who replaced Sean Ross and ten minutes later the jaded looking Manson was replace by Scott Thompson. This new partnership almost paid dividends when the pace and power of Lawther  created a chance for Thompson who couldn't quite apply the finishing touch. Spennymoor's third goal came on 92 minutes when Lawthers cross was helped on by Robinson for Karl Richards to finish well and provide a score line which reflected the dominance of the home side. 

Line-up: Escritt, Clough, Bishop, Wilkinson, Foster,  Dixon, Ross (Lawther), Robinson, Manson (Thompson), Johnston, Richards.
Supporters Man of the Match: Foster

Tuesday 25th September
Durham Senior Cup Preliminary Round
Esh Winning  0 - 0  Spennymoor
Spennymoor win 3-2 on Penalties

Spennymoor made 2 changes from the side that demolished Liversedge in the FA Vase 3 days earlier for this Durham Senior Cup clash with Esh Winning from the 2nd Division of the Northern League as Matty Hyson replaced David Manson and Graham Robinson was replaced by Neil Wilkinson.

Spennymoor had the first meaningful attack of the game when Scott Thompson eluded his marker then his powerful shot was collected at the second attempt by the Esh goalkeeper, halfway through the first half Ian Clark's goal bound free kick was deflected wide and from the resulting corner defender Mark Foster headed only inches wide.  It was Clark again causing the Esh midfield problems after he picked up the loose ball deep inside 'The Moors' half and was eventually brought down inside the Esh half however, Clough's free kick could only find the protective netting behind the goal. Mark Foster has an attempt that was cleared off the line then, it was Esh Winning's turn to threaten when a header from a left wing cross clipped the top of the woodwork.

Just over 10 minutes into the second half Esh had great chance to take the lead when the ball was knocked down in the box to the feet of the attacker who blazed the ball over Escritt's crossbar, after that Craig Bishop shot over.  Just after the hour mark Ian Clark's free kick was too high, tackles were flying in from both sides and with Spennymoor's huge game on Saturday against UniBond side Clitheroe the players seemed cautious to get stuck in as the game began to take a rough turn, Spennymoor lack the penetration to create any real chances which lead to the introduction of David Manson into the game at the expense of Matty Hyson within 10 minutes of this Karl Richards played in Manson who's sizzling low shot was turned around the post by the Esh keeper, the resulting corner was only half cleared Manson's shot was bravely blocked and then his cross was headed high and wide by Wilkinson.  Spennymoor's last chance of the game fell to Scott Thompson who failed to connect cleanly with a Karl Richards cross, Esh look more dangerous and it looked as though they would steel with by again they shot high of the crossbar.

Extra-time got underway and to the amusement of the Spennymoor supporters the Esh Winning number 6 miraculously made a recovery from cramp as he shot up off the ground to chase the ball 30 yards! The game opened up as legs tired Spennymoor made their third and final substitution when Ward made way for Richardson.  As Dixon saved Spennymoor on several occasions during the first period of extra time as he did during normal time Esh were finding themselves over in numbers on the Spennymoor defence at the far post, again the number 6 recovered from cramp to run 30 yards with the ball only to fire narrowly over Escritt's bar.  It was Spennymoor's turn to threaten when Ian Clark's long ball was meet by Manson who passed to Richardson on the edge of the box who in turn laid off Clough to fire at goal but he was denied by a great save from the keeper.  In the second period of extra time Esh Winning wasted some golden opportunities in front of Spennymoor's goal with Escritt making some fine saves.  Spennymoor had a late penalty appeal turned down when it appeared Karl Richards was held back in the box with possession of the ball after the final whistle the referee sent off Karl for his continuing protests against the decision.

With the two sides still not separated after 2 hours of football it was down to spot kicks to find a winner.  Escritt saved Esh's first however Manson's spot kick was comfortably saved as well, Esh took the advantage with their second penalty before Escritt stepped up to level the scores sending his opposite number the wrong way, Esh again took the lead prior to Clough levelling up.  Escritt saved Esh's 4th penalty before Debutant Greenwell put the pressure on Esh Winning who had to score to stay in the competition.  Escritt saved for a third time in the shoot out to send Spennymoor through to the next round of the Durham Senior Cup.

Line-up: Escritt, Clough, Bishop, Ward (Richardson), Foster (Greenwell), Dixon, Clark, Wilkinson, Hyson (Manson), Thompson, Richards
Not Used: Roulston, Ainsley
Supporters Man of the Match: Ben Escritt

Saturday 22nd September
FA Vase 1st Qualifying Round
Spennymoor  5 - 1  Liversedge 

Spennymoor booked themselves a place in the next round of the FA Vase with a resounding 5-1 demolition of West Yorkshire visitors Liversedge which saw David Manson notch up a first half hat trick. Spennymoor starting with Adam Johnston and Richie Storr in the stand got off to a good start and signalled their intent inside the first 10 minutes when Karl Richards cross field pass ran to Adam Clough who fired the ball into the danger area allowing Ian Clark the chance for a cheeky flick which was cleared off the line to deny the home side a dream start. With just 15 minutes on the clock Spennymoor took the lead through Manson, who's great shot across the keeper nestled soundly in the visitors goal. The Moors early advantage was threatened when their defence allowed themselves to be sucked infield, allowing the on rushing Hewitt a shooting chance which was dealt with by Ben Escritt, a minute later Escritt pulled off a magnificent one handed save as Melvin was allowed a free header at the back post. Spennymoor's second came on 28