Dates for cup draws

THE Ebac Northern League have confirmed the dates of the draws for the first round of their two cup competitions, writes MARK CARRUTHERS.

Northern League new boys Redcar Athletic’s Green Lane will host the draw for the League Cup on Monday, July 30.

That draw will be shown live on the Northern League’s official YouTube channel from 8pm. Clubs from across the league’s two divisions will begin their quest to match Dunston UTS’ 1-0 League Cup final win against Bishop Auckland in May.

Division Two clubs will have to wait another three days to learn their fate in the Ernest Armstrong Memorial Cup first-round draw.

Birtley Town will host that draw, and supporters can watch it live on the league’s YouTube channel at 8pm on Thursday, August 2.

Chester-le-Street Town are the current holders after their 2-0 win against Ryton and Crawcrook Albion in last year’s final.

The league also confirmed that this year’s Cleator Cup fixture between league champions Marske United and League Cup winners Dunston will take place at 3pm on Saturday, July 28 at Marske’s GER Stadium.

■ HEBBURN Town have announced a major sponsorship deal with North East energy company The Energy Check.

The deal sees the Hornets’ home ground renamed as The Energy Check Sports Ground and the company will manage the facility’s energy accounts.

Hebburn have secured a number of eye-catching signings, including former Gateshead and Darlington striker Graeme Armstrong and three-time FA Vase winner Lee Kerr.