Harker is the No 1 man in Terriers’ win
BEDLINGTON Terriers were grateful for a large chunk of luck and a fine goalkeeping performance from Nathan Harker as they took the honours in the only Northern League fixture to survive over the weekend.
The Northumberland outfit survived an onslaught in their visit to Division Two rivals Carlisle City as the hosts struck the woodwork on four occasions.
Harker also produced a number of fine saves, the most notable coming when he kept out a penalty from Jordan Holt.
That save paved the way for Keelan Nellis to fire the winner with just 12 minutes remaining as the Terriers claimed their second win in their last three games.
■ THE league has confirmed the return of the Brooks Mileson Memorial League Cup and the Ernest Armstrong Second Division Cup after a two-year absence.
The League Cup has not been contested since West Auckland Town claimed a penalty shoot-out win against Newcastle Benfield in the 2019 final.
Benfield will take their place in the first round of this season’s competition after being handed a home draw against Division One rivals Redcar Athletic.
Boldon CA will entertain Birtley Town in their first ever cup tie and North Shields and Consett face trips to Northallerton Town and Billingham Synthonia respectively.
Holders West Auckland enter in the second round as face Willington at the Wanted Stadium.
First-round ties are scheduled for mid-January with the second round ties pencilled in for the week preceding February 19.
In the first round of the Ernest Armstrong Cup, Division Two leaders Heaton Stannington will hope to continue their impressive season with a home win against Newcastle University.