Division Two: Jarrow Roofing 0 Northallerton Town 2

NORTHALLERTON travelled to fellow-promotion hopefuls Jarrow Roofing last Saturday and came away with a vital victory to keep them in the race for a top four finish.

In a dress rehearsal for the Ernest Armstrong Cup semifinal, Paul Mulcaster’s side were given an early lead when Jarrow keeper Richard Graham brought down Hickman in the penalty area and Ian Smurthwaite converted from the spot.

Graham was then shown a red card for a professional foul on Adam Emson before half time, but the ten-men of Jarrow dominated after that and only the agility of Town ‘keeper Dean Hudson kept them at bay. However, in the final minute Town broke out to seal the points when Alex Caisley combined with Steve Butterworth to create the opportunity for Emson to tuck away his 35th goal of the season.

“It was not a great performance by any means,” said Mulcaster. “But to come away from home and win 2-0 against a very good side after tough week is pleasing. Jarrow were the better team throughout but we will take the three points and move onto the semi final in good spirits.”

Following that semi-final showdown with Jarrow this week, Town travel to Morpeth Town tomorrow knowing anything less than a victory will end their promotion hopes.

The club is running a coach to the game, which leaves the ground at 11.30am. Return fare is £15.

Town then round off their league campaign with two home games and they are both “kids for free” games. Monday sees the visit of Whitehaven to the RGPS with a 7.45pm kick off, while Thornaby are the visitors on Wednesday where kick off is at 7.30pm. All under 16s are admitted free to both games with a full paying adult as the club looks to end a fine season with two big crowds.

Admission is £5 for adults.