Craggs’ late leveller to Steel a point could be crucial for Consett
CONSETT captain Daniel Craggs believes that the point his side gained from their visit to Whickham could be “crucial”.
The Lang Jacks looked set to secure an impressive win after a Damien Stevens brace gave them a 2-1 lead as the game ticked into second-half injury time.
But Craggs stepped up to curl a sublime free-kick past Whickham keeper Dan Lister and secured a lastgasp draw for his side.
“That point could be very crucial come the end of the season,” explained the Steelmen skipper.
“Whickham have some very good players and a lot of experience, it was always going to be a tough game.
“They are in a false position in the table and other teams will find it difficult going there, so we have to be happy with a point.”
Dunston UTS remain just a point behind Consett after goals from Mark Fitzpatrick and Scott Heslop gave them a 2-1 home win against Sunderland RCA.
Newcastle Benfield wasted a halftime lead as they fell to a home defeat against Shildon.
Dale Pearson gave Benfield an early lead with a stunning volley, but second-half goals from Brad Hird, Billy Greulich-Smith and Nathan Steel ensured that they were left emptyhanded.
Amar Purewal and debutant Mackenzie Heaney found the net as West Auckland Town secured a 2-0 home win against Whitley Bay.
Jack Butler hit a stunning hat-trick in Ashington’s 5-3 win at Guisborough Town, while Max Craggs scored twice to help Stockton Town win by the odd goal in five at home against Hebburn Town.
Seaham Red Star made it two wins in their last three games as Paul Gardiner, Dan Wilson and Andrew Johnston found the net in their 3-1 home win against Newton Aycliffe, and Penrith claimed only their fifth point of the season after their 1-1 draw with Ryhope CW.
Division Two leaders Billingham Town stretched their unbeaten run to 25 league games with a 1-0 win at Bedlington Terriers.
Thornaby remain in second place in the table after winning at Ryton & Crawcrook Albion.
Chester-le-Street Town are level on points with third-placed Northallerton Town after securing a 2-1 win against the North Yorkshire outfit.
Lewis Burns scored a late winner as Heaton Stannington won by the odd goal in five at Billingham Synthonia.