Tough test for Consett as pre-season gets under way
FA Vase semi-finalists Consett were given a stern test by Northern Alliance club Newcastle Blue Star as North East clubs got their preseason schedule under way yesterday.
New signing Callum Johnston put Blue Star ahead on 12 minutes but they were behind by the time the half-time whistle had been blown, thanks to a brace from Dale Pearson.
Carl Lawson marked his first appearance for Consett by extending their lead just before the hour-mark and they claimed the win despite Liam Anderson pulling a goal back for the hosts with 20 minutes remaining.
Shildon got their preparations for the new season under way with a 4-0 home win against Sunderland West End.
Jack Vaulks and Danny Craggs both found the net to give the Railwaymen a two-goal advantage at half-time and Joe Posthill and Michael Sweet added to their lead after the restart.
Joao Gomes scored twice and there was a goal apiece for Scott Robson and Kieran Moat as Whickham eased to a 4-1 win at Prudhoe YC and first-half penalty from Callum Boakes gave Esh Winning a 1-0 win against Wearside League Division Two club South Moor.
Robbie Bird and Brad Hird were on target for Ryhope CW as they battled back from two goals down to claim a 3-3 draw against FC Hartlepool. Kieran Voss scored twice for the Wearside League club.
Bedlington Terriers secured a 2-0 win against Ellington thanks to a goal in each half from Jordan Lashley and James Cooper.
A James Beauchamp hat-trick put Darlington Town on their way to a 7-0 win at Hurworth Albion. Two goals from Johnny Ward and a goal apiece from Ethan Harker and Jim Wilson helped Town to a comfortable win.
Adam Watson, Liam Butler and Matthew Smith were all on target as Durham United claimed a 3-0 home win against Shotton Colliery.