Swailes’ men Dun in after a second defeat
DUNSTON UTS suffered a second consecutive defeat as Olly Martin inspired Whitley Bay to a hardearned win over Chris Swailes’ side.
The Seahorses were two goals ahead inside the opening six minutes at Hillheads thanks to Martin’s first of the day and an own-goal from Dunston captain Dan Halliday.
Dunston fought back and former Bay striker Liam Brooks and Mark Fitzpatrick put them on level terms with goals either side of halftime.
However, it was the hosts who claimed the points with Martin’s second counter on 72 minutes.
That result handed Bay boss Mick Mulhern his first league win of his Hillheads reign.
Leaders Consett and thirdplaced Bishop Auckland failed to break the deadlock at Belle View.
North Shields remain in fourth as Gary Day grabbed the only goal of the game at Ashington, the Robins securing their fifth win in a row.
James Ellis and Michael Rae both netted twice in Ryhope CW’s 4-3 victory at Shildon.
Division Two leaders Billingham Town stretched their unbeaten run to 24 leagues - although they were given an almighty scare by struggling Brandon United.
Matthew Robinson and Craig Hutchinson grabbed late goals for Town as they came from two down to snatch a 4-4 draw at Bedford Terrace.
Thornaby remained in second after a brace from the in-form Kurtis Howes and strikes from Paul Roddam and Ian Ward helped them to a 4-2 home verdict against Washington.
Northallerton Town eased to a 4-0 triumph against bottom club Durham City thanks to braces from Damon Reaks and Richie Walker.
Chester-le-Street Town preserved their top-four place as Kieran Megran and Joe Hailes found the net in their 2-1 win at Esh Winning.
Two efforts from Connor Campbell were not enough to give Heaton Stannington all three points from their home game against Jarrow.
A Kris Allen penalty and a late equaliser from Jonathan Weightman ensured the spoils were shared at Grounsell Park.
Matty Moffat scored twice as Willington moved into the top five after prevailing in a seven-goal clash with Redcar Athletic.