Late Swansbury strike steals points for RCA

SUNDERLAND RCA DEFEAT WHICKHAM WITH AN INJURY-TIME WINNER

Sunderland RCA left it late to claim all three points from their home game against Whickham.

The Lang Jacks have struggled for the majority of the season after being promoted into the Northern League’s top-flight last April.

But they went into the game on the back of an impressive win at Newcastle Benfield and provided a stern test for Martin Swales’ side.

Their dogged resistance was finally broken in secondhalf injury-time when RCA captain Greg Swansbury fired home from ten yards.

Seaham Red Star could only claim a point from their home game against Penrith.

In-form striker Martyn Coleman hit a brace for the visitors, but goals from Michael Chilton and Joe Hailes ensured that the points were shared.

Division Two strugglers Durham City were thumped at home by Billingham Synthonia.

A Connor Smith hat-trick and an Alex Bruton volley eased Synners to a 4-0 win at Hall Lane.

The Citizens have now lost 25 of their 29 league fixtures this season.

Willington claimed a point from their visit to Bedlington Terriers.

Dean Thexton put his side ahead on 49 minutes, but goals from Stephen Young and Keelan Nellis seemed to have handed the points to the Terriers.

However, there was a sting in the tail for the hosts as Jeff Smith grabbed an equaliser for Willington five minutes from time.

Hebburn Town Reserves moved back to the top of the Wearside League with a 4-0 home win against Coxhoe Athletic.

All of the goals came in the second-half as Nathan Sinclair, Shaun Reay, Jack Young and Dylan Nesbit were all on target as the Hornets leapfrogged Sunderland West End to top the table.

Kevin Bolam’s side also hold two games in hand over their fellow title challengers.