Northern Alliance review

Apr 10 2011 Sunday Sun

GOALKEEPER Ian Milburn was the Northern Alliance hero as they won a thrilling penalty shoot-out against Lancashire & Cheshire in a preliminary tie for the Inter-League Cup.

Milburn saved two spot-kicks and another was fired over the bar before Dan Anderton lashed in the winner.

Matthew Thompson looked to have won it for the Alliance when he smashed a shot in off the underside of the bar in the last minute of extra-time.

But their opponents pushed forward for a stoppage-time corner and Kane Berkeley scored.

The Alliance, represented by reigning champions Harraby CC, dominated the first half with Sergio Royo and Mike Bainbridge forcing the Lancashire & Cheshire keeper into diving saves.

But right on half-time, in what was their first attack of note, the visitors forced a corner and Hector Samuels crashed in a stunning half-volley.

The Alliance forced an equaliser with 10 minutes to go as Royo’s speculative shot was deflected out to Jordan Cowley, who crossed low for the Shiel to fire in from six yards.

Steven Gray’s free-kick blew the title race wide open. The Seaton Delaval ace bent his effort in off the post for a 1-0 victory over leaders Ponteland United.

Second-placed Alnwick Town were twice behind at home to bottom side Cramlington Town, but came out on top.

Jonny Lowes put the visitors ahead in the 17th minute before Scott McMullen equalised on the half-hour mark. Ten minutes after the interval, Cramlington regained the advantage when James Card struck. Mark Coburn levelled within a minute before McMullen added his second and Danny Lowes sealed the win late on.

Ashington Colliers striker Michael Hogg marked his return from suspension with the winner as they beat Gateshead Rutherford 2-1. Liam Davidson put the Colliers ahead from the penalty spot, but Eddie Kane levelled almost instantly before Hogg popped up.

Paul Wintripp netted a hat-tick as relegation-threatened Murton won 4-1 at Killingworth.

Nathan Ball added the other with Craig Harley on target for the home side.

Percy Main beat Carlisle City with goals from Michael Bowman, Jason Ritchie and Craig Ewart.

Wark’s losing streak came to an end as Thomas McAlindon scored twice, once from the spot, in a 2-2 draw with Shankhouse.

Kevin Ward and Chris Rue scored for the visitors.

Stocksfield eased their relegation worries with a 3-0 success at Walker Central. Steve Forster, Glen Caighill and Wayne Stewart were on target.

Heaton Stannington came back from 2-0 down to First Division Whitley Bay A to level before booking a spot in the league Cup final with a 4-3 penalty victory.