Northumberland communities - Ponteland

What a difference a year makes

2012-04-30T10:00:27Z

Last year Ponteland United were celebrating winning the Northern Alliance Premier Division Championship in style. With the team unable to be promoted owing to ground criteria a large proportion of the players moved on and twelve months later with not one player in last seasons starting eleven and a completely different squad the team is propping up the Division along with todays hosts Murton.

Read on for match report.

They say the league table doesn't lie and the two bottom teams in the division played each other with Murton already stranded at the foot of the table and United needing a win to give any chance of surviving relegation after 28 years in the Premier Division. Murton with nothing to play for other than pride gave an early warning to the visitors on 15 minutes when a weak clearance at the back allowed Luke Wallce a shot on goal but he pulled his shot wide. Five minutes later United were punished when another long ball wasn't dealt with and Liam Wintrip this time made no mistake shooting inside the left upright. Chris Flynn continuing to play in an unfamiliar left midfield role had an opportunity to equalise when he collected Wood's freekick but his shot was tipped over the bar for a corner. This was cleared by Murton and with United out of position they broke quickly down the right with Dan Dunn tracking back to cover. He was beaten down the outside by Wallace and as he got into the box was caught by the tracking Dunn for a penalty. Sean English converted giving Blair no chance.

United were visibly shocked and perhaps understandably lost their way with no fluency or composure to their game. Warren battled hard in midfield and set up Flynn but his low hard shot was saved by keeper Aiden Vout with his feet. Half time came leaving United with a mountain to climb.

At the beginning of the second half Wallace beat Bell down the left and crossed to the unmarked Sinclair in front of goal but somehow he miscued and the ball rolled wide. With twenty five minutes to go manager Havelock made three substitutions bringing on teenagers L'Argent, Stephenson and
Powell. With no pressure on the young lads their impact was immediate bringing some pace to the wings and they took the game to Murton. Ponteland gained in confidence and their reward came with ten minutes remaining with the best move of the game. Stephenson played L'Argent down the left wing and he outpaced the full back and delivered a superb cross into the path of the hard working Dan Dunn who side footed the ball home. Pont's spirit was undeniable and they kept going to the end. Powell had the ball in the net following a freekick by Rankin but the linesman had flagged for an earlier offside much to the disappointment of the Pont lads.

Both teams left the field propping up the Premier Division and from the display it was apparent the table doesn't lie and both teams will look to rebuild next season.

Seven minute hat trick gives Pont a sinking feeling

2012-04-15T12:38:28Z

Ponteland faced a difficult encounter against championship chasing Heaton Stannington but despite going behind after only five minutes put in a spirited performance for 60 minutes before running out of steam and being struck by Lee Johnson.

Read on for match report

It was top against bottom as Ponteland United, deep in relegation trouble, faced championship contenders Heaton Stannington, at Ponteland Leisure Centre.

Just as they conceded a goal in mid week to a set piece United did so again when Heaton's tall centre back Gary McGarrigal headed the ball unchallenged from a corner kick in the 5th minute. In the first fifteen minutes United were second best but having overcome the shock goal gradually came into the game. Holden had a great opportunity to level the scores when he got beyond the defence but having rounded the keeper was denied by a last ditch tackle. The skilful Johnathan Wright upfront for the visitors picked up a ball on the left and sprayed a brilliant pass into the path of Johnson but his strike partner shot wide. United's Ford then headed a Flynn corner towards goal but it was scrambled clear. However on 25 minutes Pont equalised when Holden steered Flynn's cross wide of Backhouse to give Pont some hope. As the half drew to a close a quick free kick released Rankin playing in a more advanced position and his cross was collected cleanly by Backhouse at the feet of Holden waiting to pounce on any loose ball.

The match had been quite open with Pont well in contention at the interval and would fancy their chances of getting something out of the game. Their key opportunity came early in the second half when Flynn stole on the blindside of Wear to meet a cross from the right some twenty yards from goal but his neat half volley with the outside of his left foot to lob stranded keeper Backhouse unfortunately drifted wide of the goal. Heaton were then awarded a free kick for an infringement by Jones and from the resultant free kick were given a penalty when the ball struck an outstretched arm. Wright stepped up to take the spot kick but Blair saved diving to his right. Pont may have thought it could well be there day as they were still in the game with twenty five minutes to go but Lee Johnson had other ideas. On 65 minutes he ran onto a through ball with the Pont defence playing and appealing for offside but he went on to fire past Blair. Five minutes later he scored his second tapping in a cross following a break down the right and was on the spot to complete a seven minute hat trick when Blair tried to catch Wright's strong shot and the ball dropped into the path of Johnson. This inevitably knocked the stuffing out of the Pont lads who for 60 minutes had put up a spirited performance. Heaton completed the rout and went nap when substitute Ben Telford got on the scoresheet in the final minute.

With Gateshead Rutherford beating Stocksfield it means Ponteland can only hope that Walker Central who have one game in hand and one point ahead of Pont slip up in their three match run in which on paper looks easier than Ponts who have to visit Harraby Catholic Club.

Uphill struggle for Pont

2012-04-09T05:15:48Z

Ponteland United visited high flying Carlisle City but they found the Cumbrians too good on the day. It was an uphill struggle for United after conceding a goals in the first two minutes of each half. One was a goalline scramble whereas the other was an unstoppable shot. With only four games remaining and in the bottom two United need points desparately. One cannot fault the players endeavour but it's results that count.

Read on for Match Report.

Ponteland visited championship contenders Carlisle City hoping to pick up some points in their fight against relegation but hopes were dented after only two minutes when Dan Bulman forced the ball over the line from the first corner of the match for the Cumbrians. Despite the set back United battled away but without getting any control of the game against a confident, organised and strong running Carlisle outfit. City almost doubled the lead just before half time when Mark Graham burst through midfield but his shot went wide of the goal.

Sadly for United the second half started like the first in that they conceded a goal in the 46th minute when Graham lashed in an unstoppable shot on the volley from distance. The visitors now faced an uphill task against one of the meanest defences in the league with a goals against ratio of only one per game.

Ponteland continued to battle away bravely and although teenagers Warren and Stephenson tried hard in midfield they were often outnumbered and outrun by City. It was no surprise with twenty minutes remaining when Carlisle increased their lead when substitute Tom Lucock side footed the ball into the net after a flowing move which split the Ponteland defence. Disappointment and frustration got to some of the Pont players as the game went on with Ford being dismissed for two yellow cards one for a strong challenge and the other for preventing the keeper from clearing the ball.

Further disappointment for the team came on the way home hearing that fellow strugglers Gateshead Rutherford had beaten league leaders Heaton Stannington 3 - 2.

Brown's hat trick too much for black & whites

2012-04-01T18:16:48Z

With several players either injured or unavailable Ponteland gave a debut to seventeen year old Jack L'Argent after consistent displays for the club's Reserves side and the teenager put in an accomplished performance. Another teenager Liam Blair returned in goal after injury and just got the nod ahead of Ryan Carter.

With United needing points to move up the table it was a tense affair and although Havelock's young side never stopped trying it was the stronger Colliers side which came out on top thanks to a David Brown hat trick.

Read on for match report.

With several players either injured or unavailable Ponteland gave a debut to seventeen year old Jack L'Argent after consistent displays for the clubs Reserves side and the teenager put in an accomplished performance. Another teenager Liam Blair returned in goal after injury and just got the nod ahead of Ryan Carter.

The first twenty minutes was quite open without any side creating any clear goal scoring opportunities. Simon Cunningham for the visitors shot from distance but the ball went high and wide and David Brown headed Shaun Gibson's cross from the left hard down into the ground and the ball bounced over the crossbar. United lost Wood in the first period with a foot injury and was replaced by McGorie. On 25 minutes the Colliers took the lead when normally reliable keeper Blair failed to punch a high cross and Glen Bolton headed home. Ten minutes later United were level when a cross from Robinson on the right was headed out to Holden and the in form striker showed great composure to cut inside before firing low and true into the net. Flynn had a similar opportunity minutes later this time from McGorie's cross but his firmly struck shot sailed high over the bar.

Half time was approaching and finished in dramatic fashion. Into first half injury time the dangerous David Brown swivelled in the box and rifled a right foot shot into the goal and a minute later Holden did the same. Half time 2 - 2.

In the second half the visitors gradually got more on top particularly in midfield despite the tireless efforts of United's Stephenson and Dunn. Neverthess goalscoring opportunities remained far and few between. On 63 minutes the Colliers got their noses in front again when David Brown got on the end of a freekick and found his header misjudged by Blair as it crept into the net off the post. Holden tried his best up front but despite the efforts of the team was too often the only real threat going forward. He nearly got his hat trick after a typical mazy run but saw his effort slip past the post. A hat trick did in fact come but it was the Colliers David Brown who scored it. He had an excellent afternoon holding up the ball and was involved in most of Ashington's play and put the game beyond Pont's reach with a well taken goal.

Manager Havelock could not fault his young team for its hardworking performance but once Wood had left the field they lacked any physical presence until another teenage debutant, substitute Liam Warren, entered the fray.

With Walker producing a shock 4 - 0 victory at home to Killingworth the defeat pushed United back into the bottom two.

Holden brace shows the way

2012-03-20T13:45:40Z

Ponteland United probably had their best display of the season to beat a strong Blyth Town side.

It was a fine all round performance with all players including the substitutes contributing to the victory. The availability of experienced players McIvor, Ford and Dummett made a difference but it was the tenacity and goalpoaching instincts of Billy Holden that secured three valuable points for the black and whites.

Read on for match report.

United were able to call upon Ford, McIvor and Dummett for this fixture and the three experienced players made an impact in the game giving Ponteland some strength, physical presence and composure in what has been a difficult season for the team. Ford in the centre of defence dominated throughout and didn't miss a header all afternoon.

On ten minutes McIvor hit the bar with a long free kick but it bounced away to safety. Then a misdirected pass by Flynn playing in an unfamiliar left wing position allowed Blyth to break down the right but Ford managed to get back and clear the danger. The opening twenty minutes was end to end without any real threat on either goal. A long clearance by Pont's keeper Carter was headed on by Wood into the path of Holden who sped towards goal. It took a strong but fair timely intervention from centre back Lee Barnes to thwart the nippy forward. Both sides were contributing to a fine game of football.

On 35 minutes United got their noses in front when Dunn released Holden running beyond the defence and with the goalkeeper advancing towards him and under pressure from the defenders he fired past keeper Scott Earl. Shortly afterwards Blyth had a loud appeal for a penalty but the referee wasn't interested and waived play on. However two minutes before the interval Blyth did get a penalty. The visitors were inside the Ponteland penalty area and some stout defending by Ford and Rankin blocked goalbound shots before the ball bounced clear to Dan Dunn who looked to be clearing the danger but an unfortunate bounce caused him to handle the ball. David Atkinson made no mistake firing to the keepers right. Half time with honours even and all to play for in the second half.

Nine minutes into the second half Ponteland had a strong appeal for a penalty themselves when the industrious Holden chased a through ball over the top and the keeper took him out. To the crouds dismay the referee ignored the appeals. This seemed to spur the black and white's on and a minute later they got a goal their play deserved. McIvor played a lofted ball towards Flynn on the left and the tall wingman headed it into the path of Holden who unexpectedly shot early and rifled the ball into the roof of the net. The centre forward then almost scored his hat trick following the best move of the game involving Wood, McIvor and Dunn but on this occasion when one on one with the keeper Earl just managed to deflect the shot with his knees to safety. Blyth had rarely threatened in the second half but Robinson had a chance from a corner by Atkinson but he headed over the bar. Holden was in the thick of things and causing Blyth all kinds of trouble with his tenacity. A weak clearance from Earl was collected by the impressive Wood who played in Holden who rounded the defender but his shot just hit the outside of the post. With ten minutes to go Pont got a penalty when Holden was grabbed around the neck as he slipped his defender. Teenager Matthew Robinson took responsibility and fired powerfully past Earl to give United some breathing space and keep their recent undefeated run going.

Final Score Ponteland United 3 Blyth Town 1.

Blair keeps Colliers at Bay

2012-03-11T12:58:51Z

A series of fine saves from keeper Liam Blair and a determined all round performance by United almost secured victory but they were denied five minutes from time when substitute Michael Hogg for the Colliers took advantage of a defensive misjudgement to share the spoils.

Read on for match Report

Unfortunate teenage keeper Michael Bertram looks like being sidelined for the remainder of the season following a thigh injury sustained mid week in a college game. Bertram has been out of action for most of the season and was just returning to top form before this latest set back. Bertram's injury resulted in a quick recall for regular custodian Liam Blair who himself had been out with a metatarsal injury. With another teenager Jack Bell selected for the County Squad club captain Chris Flynn returned to the starting eleven.

Flynn was quickly into action turning in an excellent cross after good work on the ball by Anderson but the ball was cleared away for a corner which came to nothing. Ponteland were guilty of giving the ball away far too cheaply and after one misdirected pass Anthony Watson found himself in the clear down the right but his shot across goal was pushed away to safety by Blair. It was quite end to end in the early stages as both sides tried to come to terms with the blustery conditions and bobbly pitch. The best chance came to Ashington's Ian Nichalls on 20 minutes when he headed over a corner from Jason Ritchie. The Colliers then had another opportunity when a loose pass from Stephenson resulted in Jamie Patterson running with the ball towards goal but his lob lacked sufficient height to trouble Blair. At the other end the nippy Holden nipped in to pinch the ball away from Nickalls but the experienced centre back brought him down some 30 yards from goal and was duly cautioned. The freekick was powerfully struck by Robinson but into the chest of keeper Towart who collected cleanly. Anderson limped off following s strong tackle as half time approached but United saw out the half with ten men to give Anderson a little more time to recover which he duly did.

At the start of the second half three quick fire passes by the Colliers high in the Ponteland half ended with Brown through on goal but he was thwarted, not for the first time, by the keepers outstretched legs. A nice move involving Wood, Robinson and Stephenson finished with the latter having a shot on goal but this was deflected for a corner but again nothing came from it. On 57 minutes United did take the lead. A long ball by Wood found Anderson in the clear down the left. He went down the wing before cutting inside and then released Holden who took his time to fire across keeper Towart into the far corner. United then nearly gifted the home team an equaliser when a misunderstanding between Rankin and McAlindon ended with Rankin's clearance hitting an opponent and fortuitously for the embarrassed defenders the ball ricochet back over the bar.

As the half progressed Ponteland looked more comfortable but with twenty minutes remaining they had to thank Blair once again for yet another one on one save this time saving at the feet of substitute Michael Hogg. It looked as though lady luck was with the visitors when with ten minutes remaining Colliers' substitute Liam Davidson was dismissed for foul and abusive language. Nevertheless Ashington plugged away and were rewarded for their endeavour with five minutes left when a misjudged header from experienced defender McAlindon fell at the feet of Michael Hogg and this time he made no mistake to level the scores.

Pont will look at the game as two points lost which would have lifted them out of the relegation zone whereas Ashington, if they had taken their chances, should have taken the points. In the end a draw was perhaps a fair result.

Spirited display by Pont brings victory

2012-02-19T13:31:05Z

It's five months ago since Ponteland United last won a match and that was when they defeated Shankhouse 2 - 0 at the Leisure Centre. In the return fixture yesterday United were without captain Chris Flynn on holiday and gave a first start to teenager Jack Bell.

After overcoming early pressure by the home side Ponteland grew in confidence after they took the lead through a Gavin Wood penalty and went on to secure a well deserved victory.

Read on for match report.

It was the home side who looked the most threatening in the first fifteen minutes. Keeper Bertram misjudged a long corner from Grahamslaw but Anthony Moran coming in at the back post headed wide. With the wind behind them Shankhouse had a few early corners but the Ponteland defence held firm. United did look dangerous on the break. A long goal kick was controlled by Holden who laid it off quickly to Wood who played it first time down the line for Robinson. The wingman took it in his stride before whipping it across the penalty box for the unmarked Anderson to shoot on target but keeper Debbage saved with his feet. At the other end Paul Armstrong found himself in a good shooting position but blazed over the bar. Rankin was booked for petulance and from the resultant freekick Bertram did well to tip a downward header from Moran over the bar. Bertram was again in action tipping a drive from Daniel Chambers wide of his far post. In between times Ponteland had two great chances from corners when first Rankin misdirected his effort wide of goal and then centre back Paul Jones couldn't quite get enough power on a shot and the ball was cleared by Shankhouse after a goalmouth scramble. On 38 minutes Ponteland got the break through. Dunn through persistence won the ball in midfield and played the ball through to Holden. The speedy forward went by keeper Debbage before being wiped out for a clear penalty. The keeper was booked for his desparate action and suffered further when Wood stepped up to calmly stroke the ball into the bottom corner.
Ponteland went in at half time with their noses in front.

United started the second half in confident mood taking the game to Shankhouse with the home side having to clear two efforts off the line from Dan Dunn and Liam Anderson. Having failed to take those opportunities United had to thank Bertram when he saved brilliantly to deny Lee Gustard who was through on goal following an excellent defence splitting pass by Grahamslaw. With half an hour remaining Grahamslaw went in somewhat rashly with feet raised on Stephenson and received a straight red. United then capitalised on the extra man and visibly began to grow in confidence with more freedom to play. Robinson broke quickly down the right and although he slightly overhit his cross Anderson retrieved the ball and played it back to Stephenson whose right foot shot was tipped over the bar. With 20 minutes remaining Pont doubled their lead when centre back Jones up for a freekick back healed the ball into the path of Robinson and the teenager rifled a shot into the top corner giving Debbage no chance. Three minutes later Pont got a third when Robinson drove a corner into the danger zone. The ball was headed clear but Holden was first to react and his overhead kick went over the keeper and the Shankhouse defence to nestle in the far corner of the net. United made three substitutions and comfortably saw the game out for a deserved win.

Holden brace not enough as lady luck spoils the night

2012-01-26T16:48:00Z

Seven weeks ago Whitley Bay A inflicted a humiliating defeat on Ponteland United and one would excuse the black and whites for not looking forward to the reverse fixture last night. However the lads put in a battling display competing all over the pitch for the full ninety minutes and were left dissappointed at the end when an own goal gifted the seasiders the points.

Read on for match report.

Seven weeks ago United suffered an embarrassing 8 - 1 defeat at the hands of Whitley Bay A and were played off the park by the seasiders and could not have been looking forward to tonight's return fixture. Prior to the game United suffered another blow when young keeper Liam Blair arrived on crutches with a broken metatarsal. Fortunately Michael Bertram had himself just recovered from injury and was able to deputise.

United put in a much improved and spirited performance and battled away closing down the home side all over the pitch. Nevertheless the speed and movement of Whitley Bay did cause problems and some last ditch tackling by Jones and Flynn kept them at Bay with Bertram behind them saving at the feet to deny Gavin Hattrick and Jack Walker. United had their moments when following a long punt by Brown Billy Holden put Mark Davison under pressure and when he got free and towards goal he pulled his shot wide of the far post. On 23 minutes Bay went in front when United failed to deal with a long throw and Gavin Hattrick ghosted in to head home. Towards the end of the half Ponteland were becoming more comfortable and notched an equaliser with three minutes of the half remaining when Brown fired a fierce shot towards goal, Fenwick caused some pressure and the alert Holden fired in to give United some encouragement after a battling display.

Eight minutes into the second half United found themselves behind once again when new signing Christopher Reid slipped in to take advantage of an error of judgement at the back to head home a long free kick. Despite the set back United didn't let their heads drop and continued despite losing Roy Gordon to a damaged toe and Robinson through exhaustion. The introduction of Wood made a difference with his hold up play and composure on the ball. With half an hour remaining a neat move between Wood and Holden ended with the nippy forward cutting inside the fullback but unfortunately saw shot deflected for a corner. Nevertheless with fifteen minutes to go the two combined again and this time Holden made no mistake with a cool finish past keeper Hammond.

Both teams wanted the win. Bertram took a knock diving bravely at the feet to deny Hattrick and although the keeper protested at the forwards untimely challenge the referee and his assistant following a discussion saw nothing untoward. Jack Walker headed over from a good position a cross from Bay's Jobson but were fortuitous from the next set piece. With only five minutes remaining a long throw came into the box and fell at the feet of Ponts Dan Dunn helping out in defence. His clearance had the misfortune to hit the heel of Fenwick and rebound into the Pont goal. A major set back and huge disappointment to the Pont lads who had battled all evening and despite their lowly league position gave a good account of themselves.

United on wrong end of six pointer

2012-01-21T22:06:50Z

Struggling Ponteland United faced a six pointer with fellow strugglers Gateshead Rutherford. Having taken only 22 points from a possible 24 United are having an horrific run and todays game was essential for Pont to get back into winning ways and start picking up points.

However it was the visitors who deservedly took all three points and opened a gap between themselves and the bottom two clubs Ponteland and Murton.

Ponteland United in a barren run with no wins in their last 8 games and only one draw entered fellow strugglers Gateshead Rutherford in a crucial six pointer with twelve games remaining. United were without midfielder Dan Dunn with teenager Matty Robinson retaining his place.

On a soft and lumpy pitch it was the visitors who looked the strongest in a goalless first half although Ponteland perhaps had the better chances. Brown played a good ball to Chris Flynn playing upfront to give United some added strength and his shot on the turn was deflected for a corner. From Gordon's kick to the back post Ford got up well but his header struck a defender on the back of his head and away for another corner which came to nothing. On 20 minutes Rutherford had a corner and it was cleared to Joe Hindmarch whose fierce shot was blocked by Rankin with the visitors appealing for a penalty. With the first half coming to a close the lively Holden got free down the right for Ponteland when he was brought down outside the penalty area with Flynn and Robinson up in support. The half ended all square with the game looking as though it could go either way although Rutherford were looking the stronger.

Only five minutes into the second half Ponteland shot themselves in the foot when slack defending allowed Taylor through on goal. He went past keeper Blair but caught his outstretched hand for a penalty. This was duly converted by Todhunter firing low to the keepers right. Five minutes later a back pass by Ford fell well short of Blair leaving Taylor with a straightforward chance of slipping the ball past the unfortunate keeper.

United were now up against it with the visitors clearly in the ascendancy. Nevertheless the home side battled away without really creating any clear cut chances. Their slim chances improved when Linton Smith received a second yellow card for abusive language. Wood replaced McGorie and Flynn with ten minutes to go gave Ponteland a lifeline when he poked the ball home from close range. However the two goal margin was quickly restored when two minutes later Andy Reay somehow managed to swivel past two defenders on the byeline before pulling the ball back into the path of Ross Taylor who gleefully fired home.

United along with Murton are now cut adrift at the bottom of the Premier Division table with both teams facing the threat of relegation

Bleak mid winter

2011-12-12T11:36:37Z

Ponteland United continue to find life difficult as they endeavour to find a solution to a string of poor results which has seen them conceding far too many goals and a lack of fire power up front means obtaining points will be difficult. At least a purposeful second half performance gives manager Havelock a crumb of comfort but by that time the damage had been done with Hebburn six goals to the good in a dominant and overpowering first half display.

Read on for match report

Ponteland United in an unprecedented run of poor form and without a win in their last seven games visited an in form team Hebburn Reyrolle who had won 5 of their last six league outings. Elliott Huart, Chris Flynn and Dan Dunn returned to the Ponteland starting line.
A confident Hebburn started at a fast pace and were rewarded after only five minutes when a quick one two down the right allowed Ray Oshin to get to the bye line and his cross picked out Alan Pegrun just inside the 18 yard line to fire strong and true into the bottom corner. The powerful running and control of the Hebburn team made things difficult for Ponteland as they became over run all over the pitch. The instrumental Pegram played a lovely ball out to Andrew Bell and his pass found McDonald in front of goal with only Blair to beat but he shot wide. Pegram then hit a half volley from a corner which Dunn cleared off the line. Things looked ominous for Ponteland and on 25 minutes they went further behind when Pegram played in the strong running Ray Oshin who fired low past Blair. Five minutes later the young keeper was picking the ball out of the net again when Andrew Bell capitalised on a defensive mistake to put the game well beyond the struggling visitors. Huart was working hard in midfield for Pont but was cautioned after one or two overzealous challenges. For the third week running a shell shocked Ponteland were finding it difficult to get any foothold in the game and it wasn't until the 35 minute before they had their first attempt on goal when Kwalangana headed Jones' cross into the arms of Newbrook. There then followed a flurry of goals. Five minutes before half time a free kick on the left by Watson was poorly defended and it went through the defence and past an unsighted Blair. Surprisingly Pont then pulled one back when Rankin fired a firmly struck left foot shot into the bottom corner to lift Pont's spirits but only momentarily. A goal mouth scramble ended with powerful striker Channon North poking home a fifth and three minutes into stoppage time of the first half McDonald put further misery on Pont to make it six at the half way stage.

Manager Havelock made an immediate change at half time bringing on Wood for Kwalangana and Pont suffered a further set back when Huart had to be carried off with a knee injury to go to hospital and was replaced with Anderson. To their credit the Ponteland lads did much better in the second half with Wood and Dunn, after he moved into the middle, getting greater ownership of the ball,and although not creating too many chances did control more of the game although it could be argued with a six goal lead Hebburn took their foot off the gas. The surprising thing was that no further goals were scored which would have meant an even more embarrassing afternoon for the visitors. Blair made two fine stops to deny North and at least a second half clean sheet and the players playing some decent football gives the team some positives to take into their next game. Heads never dropped in the second half but the team needs to increase its work rate and concentration throughout the game to match teams at this level. Until Havelock can find a way to stop conceding goals at an alarming rate Pont without a natural striker will struggle to win games, The fact that Hebburn had six different goalscorers illustrates the difference.

Horrific run continues for Pont

2011-12-08T13:24:39Z

Despite introducing three new signings Ponteland United suffered their heaviest defeat for many a season against an in form Whitley Bay A team. Individual errors proved costly for the black and whites and they gave away three goals in the first fifteen minutes to start what turned into a nightmare afternoon.

Read on for match report.

Ponteland gave debuts to three new signings in an attempt to improve results but they found visitors Whitley Bay A, who are enjoying a fine run of form, in confident mood from the outset. With some assistance from Ponteland the visitors found themselves three goals in front after only 15 minutes and at the end inflicted one of the heaviest defeats the black and whites have suffered for many a year.

With only five minutes on the clock Jones took a free kick down the right for Ponteland but the ball hit the Whitley Bay wing man and he quickly played the ball invitingly between central defender McAlindon and the goal for centre forward Niall Younger to outpace the lone defender to fire low into the net. Five minutes later the visitors doubled their lead when Bay broke down the right and the cross was unfortunately turned into his own goal by Rankin as he stretched to clear the cross at the near post.. To compound matters further on 15 minutes a clearance by Ponteland hit the unfortunate Jones and fell nicely into the path of Younger eight yards from goal and he gave Blair no chance to score his second. Shell shocked Ponteland never recovered. However they battled away with Gavin Wood upfront trying his best to encourage his colleagues. On 25 minutes McAlindon did well to hold up another break by Bay before former Wark player Famelton came to Pont's rescue with a fine challenge. Wood for Pont showed good close control when receiving Anderson's pass before floating a shot just over the bar. Wood also had another opportunity but his header from a free kick went wide of the upright.

With half time approaching Pont suffered a further set back when a cross from another break down the right found Jack Walker unmarked to head home and just before the half time whistle Rankin repeated his earlier error to grab a brace of own goals in identical fashion. Half time came with Ponteland probably wishing it was the final whistle.

Havelock made a change at half time bringing on Huart in midfield for McAlindon and moved Famelton to centre back with Brown fitting in at left back. Three minutes had only gone by before Bay scored their sixth. Huart hadn't had time to get used to the pace of the game, got caught in possession and Walker went on to fire his second past the unfortunate Blair who despite the scoreline couldn't be blamed for any of the goals. For a while Ponteland did manage to stem the tide and with 30 minutes remaining Holden did score a consolation goal firing home following a neat dummy by Wood but further goals by McDonald on 72 minutes and Keltie three minutes later ended a miserable afternoon for the black and whites. The new lads need some match practice but time isn't on Ponteland's side as they are in an horrific run having taken only one point from the last 18 available.

Christmas charity night

2011-12-05T11:56:08Z

Sent in by the Chris Lucas Trust

A charity is holding a Christmas-themed night of fun to raise money to combat children's cancer.

The Chris Lucas Trust is holding 'A Merry Merry Christmas Night' in aid of Childhood Cancer Research.

It takes place this Saturday, December 10, at the Britannia Hotel, Newcastle Airport. There is a three-course meal, live entertainment and disco, Santa, auction and dancing until 12.30am.

Tickets are £25. Telephone Lynn on 0191 263 2884 to reserve tickets.

To promote your events email northumberland@ncjmedia.co.uk

Clinical finishing shows Heaton's championship credentials

2011-11-27T14:15:42Z

Ponteland United visited second in the table Heaton Stannington and gave a spirited performance in the first half against a strong wind and there wasn't too much to choose between the two teams at the interval with Heaton having a one goal advantage.

The second half though was a completely different story as Heaton demonstrated why they are a front runner for the championship title scoring five times in a bleak second half for Ponteland.

Read on for Match Report

Ponteland made one change for the visit to second in the table Heaton Stannington bringing in Billy Holden for his first start for 18 months following a cruciate ligament injury with Freddie Anderson dropping to the bench.

In the first half Heaton although they missed some chances didn't look a top of the table side compared to their struggling opponents. Ponteland more than held their own and the chances Heaton had were due to United's defensive errors. After ten minutes a corner from Holden was met by Anderson in front of goal but his header went wide of the post. On 10 minutes Heaton's new signing Johnathan Wright was played in on goal and although he beat keeper Blair to the ball his shot also just went wide of the upright. Wright was showing good movement up front and looking dangerous. Pont's keeper Blair did well to tip a shot from Gary Dixon over the bar. As the half went on Ponteland were looking more comfortable but on the half hour mark they had to thank Blair again when a weak back pass by Jones landed at the feet of the quick thinking Heaton striker but Blair was out quickly to his 18 yard line to block the shot with his feet. Five minutes later when Ponteland were attacking the ball fell loose and cleared up field by the Heaton defence and over the visitors' rearguard. In a flash Wright was onto it and the ball bounced nicely for him to lob Blair and put them into the lead.

Half time came and with the strong wind behind Ponteland in the second half it was felt they could still get something from this game for they hadn't been outplayed at all. How wrong could observers be. Almost from the kick off Joseph Wear for Stannington was through on goal but Blair saved bravely. Then Heaton were celebrating when a shot from Wright was heading towards goal and Wear made certain at the back stick only to be given offside. The home side were breaching the Ponteland defence far too easily with their slick passing and it certainly was a different Heaton side that came out for the second half. Pont did however have a strong appeal for a penalty when Anderson was brought down bearing in on goal but the referee thought differently. On 52 minutes Wright got the better of McAlindon and this time went on to confidently pass the ball past Blair into the bottom corner. Eight minutes later Ben Telford scored the best goal of the game ending a slick quick passing move by side footing on the volley a cross from the left past Blair. This took the sting out of Ponteland and the home side simple rose in confidence whereas some heads began to drop for Pont. The game got more stretched and Heaton looked as though they could cut through the Pont defence at every opportunity through Telford, Wear and Wright's movement and control. Telford got another goal with twenty minutes to go with a firm finish from another good passing move and Lee Johnson also got himself on the score sheet. With eight minutes to go the normally reliable Blair allowed a shot from substitute Michael Waggett to go under his outstretched arm to end a miserable second half collapse by Ponteland and although the result flattered Heaton a little they showed how clinical they can be from the quick incisive movement of their front players.

United's young manager Michael Havelock has a problem in stopping his side from leaking goals and everyone must take responsibility not just the defence.

Fairless brace piles agony on Pont

2011-11-24T18:14:59Z

This game between two teams struggling this season and in much need of points was heading for a draw as the clock reached the 90 minute mark but Stocksfield's Chris Fairless had other ideas as he picked up a loose ball deep in the Ponteland half and burst forward towards the goal before slipping the ball past keeper Liam Blair to give his team all three valuable points.

Read on for match report

Struggling Ponteland United met fellow strugglers Stocksfield at Ponteland Leisure Centre last Saturday in what was a crucial game with both teams in the bottom four of the league. With Matty Turner on County duty again Ponteland gave a debut to new signing Patrick McAlindon at centre back and moved Chris Flynn to left back.

The first half was quite uneventful with neither side exerting any persistent pressure on the opposing defence. Stocksfield were however having the better opportunities but they were primarily due to United's carelessness. On 15 minutes indecision by McAlindon and Rankin allowed Richard Lally in on goal but keeper Blair did excellent to block the strikers shot. The promising keeper was brought into action shortly afterwards when he dived to save Dibb-Fullers low drive. Mid way through the first half the young keeper hesitated when a ball was played back to him and picked the ball up. The referee gave a freekick for a back pass only 10 yards from goal. However Blair made amends for his indiscretion by pulling off a fabulous save to beat away Fairless' free kick. Ponteland hadn't created too much themselves although they did have one flowing move involving midfielders Findlay, Huart and Dunn which ended with Anderson teeing up Huart but his shot was deflected wide of the post. Half time came with both sides still looking to open their account.

In the second half Ponteland had an early opportunity when Huart found Dunn on the right and his cross was collected by Anderson who fired just past the upright. The breakthrough came on 55 minutes when Stocksfield were awarded a penalty following an unnecessary challenge by Rankin. Chris Fairless made no mistake from the spot to fire the visitors in front. Five minutes later Ponteland were level through the tenacity of Dan Dunn. The midfielder chased a lost cause into the corner and managed to rob Vause before advancing into the penalty area. With Pont players up in support a goal looked inevitable but the cross was deflected into the goal by the unfortunate Chris Hill as he tried to get back to cover. As the half progressed both teams were going for a win with Stocksfield throwing bodies forward as they sensed they could get something out of the game. A strong run down the right by centre back Stoves ended with his cross landing into the path of Phil Murray but the strikers header was brilliantly saved by Blair. It looked as though the game would end all square but in stoppage time Fairless pounced on a loose ball with no defenders around him and simply ran untroubled towards goal and slipped the ball past Blair to give the visitors all three points.

The last gasp winner was perhaps a little unkind to Pont but overall Stocksfield probably deserved the win.

Early and late goals sicken Pont

2011-11-13T16:51:18Z

How often does a former player come back to haunt you. Well if happened at Percy Main this Saturday. Nkuriza Suaibu having been unable to get a regular staring position with Ponteland United obtained a transfer last week to Percy Main and his first game coincidentally was at home to his former club. It didn't take too long for Suaibu to come up trumps for his new teammates by scoring within the first minute with a piece of individual opportunity.

Read On for match report.

With Manager Michael Havelock on holiday Colin Bell took charge of the team for the visit to Percy Main who had already beaten them twice this season in the league and Challenge Cup. John Dunn returned to the starting line up following suspension and Elliott Huart came in for the injured Paul Hodgson. Lining up for Percy Main was recent signing Nkuriza Suaibu who decided on a move to the cottagers after failing to get a regular starting position at Ponteland

A minutes silence took place before the game to remember those who sadly lost their lives in the world wars. Suaibu extended the silence on the away bench for within a minute of the start he showed his former team what he was capable of by playing keepy ups in the penalty area before looping an overhead kick into the far corner of the net. Suaibu nearly did further damage a few minutes later when he played a one two with Abladey and sped down the line but full back Turner did well to block the cross. After the early set back Ponteland started to play some good football with Huart prominent in driving forward from midfield and seeing one powerful shot deflected for a corner. On 18 minutes Ponteland equalised from an excellent flowing move which resulted in Turner overlapping down the pulling the ball back into the path of Anderson who missed his kick but John Dunn was behind him to steer the ball into the goal. Ponteland became more confident and had a greater share of the play but it was the home side that nearly increased their lead. Another excellent run and cross by Suaibu found Kevin Westphall at the back post who smacked his volley against the bar and then brought a brilliant save from Westwood from the rebound. Instead of leading 2 - 1 the Main then found themselves losing 2 - 1 moments later as Paul Jones up for a corner took advantage of a loose ball to fire Ponteland in front seven minutes before half time. The lead lasted only a minute before Tony Abladey took advantage of slack defending from a corner to fire low and true into the bottom corner. A final flurry from Ponteland just before the interval but Rodgerson saved brilliantly from Huart and then turned a Ranking free kick over the bar for safety. Half time 2 - 2.

Ten minutes after the re start Ponteland suffered a blow when John Dunn, chasing a loose ball in the penalty area, keeled over under no challenge and had to go to hospital. The ball went out for a corner. Fortunately it wasn't a fracture but a badly sprained ankle with ligament damage and sadly he'll be out of action for some considerable time. While Dunn was off the field Ponteland actually took the lead when Jones headed the corner goal wards and Liam Anderson almost on the goal line with his back to goal swivelled to clip the ball into the net. As the game progressed one wondered whether Ponteland could hold onto their lead. With twenty minutes to go Matty Turner smacked a superb volley against the upright whiles at the other end an error in midfield allowed Westphall free to run in on goal but his shot although beat keeper Blair it hit the post and was cleared. Time was ticking away and in the last minute of normal time Jevan Jull unmarked from a corner rose to head in the equaliser to the delight of the home crowd.

A draw was perhaps a fair result in the end but Ponteland will be disappointed after conceding a goal in the first minute, then getting their noses in front for such a long period in the second half before conceding from a set piece at the death.
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