Olly challenges the Colliers to end a ‘great’ season on a high
Easington Colliery manager Olly Hotchkiss has challenged his side to produce a strong end to the season and claim a home tie in the Northern League Division Two play-offs.
The Colliers will round off their regular-season fixtures with a visit to Washington tonight, and know a win will put them in the driving seat for a third-placed finish.
However, play-off rivals Bedlington Terriers could sneak into third as they still have three games left in what has been a hectic end to the season.
With their top-five place already secured, Hotchkiss described the season as ‘a great time for the club’, and is relishing the challenge that lies ahead as his side look to return to the Northern League’s top tier for the first time since 2001.
Assessing the situation, the Colliers boss told The Echo: “We want to finish the season as strong as possible and make sure we finish as high as we can.
"If we can claim three points on Friday there is still a huge chance of finishing third and claiming a home tie for the semi-final of the play-offs.
“We as a club are delighted to have achieved the play-offs in our first year together. The players have been outstanding all year round and deserve to be in the mix.
“It will be a tough semifinal against Bedlington but we will be working hard to make sure we are ready for the tie. It’s a great time for the club and hopefully we can build even further. It’s an exciting time for everyone connected with the club.
“The play-off contenders are all top teams, which demonstrates the strength of the league.”
Terriers will host alreadycrowded Division Two champions Blyth Town in a game that will be held at
Morpeth Town’s Craik Park.
Elsewhere on Saturday, there is a South Tyneside derby at Ford Hub as Jarrow entertain Boldon CA and Newcastle Blue Star round off preparations for their play-off semi-final against Horden CW when they visit Thornaby.
Chester-le-Street United welcome Billingham Synthonia to Riverside Complex and Prudhoe YC are the visitors to Esh Winning.