Haslam takes over as new Whitley boss

EBAC Northern League Division One club Whitley Bay have confirmed the appointment of Nathan Haslam as their new manager.

The former Marske United and Bishop Auckland head coach succeeds Mick Mulhern in the home dugout at Hillheads.

A statement released by the club revealed Haslam had been the “unanimous” choice of the Bay board and that he was selected from a field of 28 applicaants.

The 38-year-old takes over a Whitley Bay side sitting third from bottom in the Division One table and without a win in their last six league games.

Haslam has been acting in an advisory role at Division Two club Willington recently.

He will now take charge of the Bay for the first time when they visit Shildon on Saturday.

His first home game in charge comes three days later when Whickham visit Hillheads.

The new Bay boss said: “With only a few games remaining this season, the current squad of players will have the chance to prove itself.

“Fans can expect to see some changes in the way we play.

“We will be more solid in defence while aiming to play attractive, possession-based football and scoring more goals. I am really optimistic for the future.” ■■Whickham lost for the third consecutive game as they were beaten at home by West Auckland Town.

The Lang Jacks started in a positive fashion and took the lead on eight minutes when Lewis Orrell’s free-kick beat a crowded box and nestled inside the far post.

But that was as good as it got for Robin Falcus’ men as a hat-trick from Amar Purewal and a late goal from Tom Portas eased the visitors to a 4-1 win at the Glebe.

The result moves West back into the top ten of the Division One table, with their hosts still sat second from bottom, six points clear of basement club Penrith.

There was an eight-goal thriller in Division Two as Crook Town made it eight games unbeaten with a 5-3 home win against Birtley Town.

A Daniel Kent hat-trick helped the hosts overturn a half-time deficit and move them into the top eight of the table. Ellis Husband gave Crook a perfect start to the game as he put them ahead within the first three minutes.