7pm 16 May 2025
Northumberland FA, Benevolent Bowl Final at St Peter's Hub, Wallsend
AFC Burradon and New Fordley 1 AFC Newbiggin 3 (att 270)
St Peter's Hub in Wallsend was only opened a few weeks ago, as a headquarters for the Northumberland Football Association and a venue for at least some of its cup finals.
It's built on what were basic playing fields, and is a good facility. I'm sure the immaculate artificial pitch is great to play on, but for spectators it's a slightly underwhelming stage for such matches.
There are are couple of small seated stands, although dugouts and other spectators mean the view from them is inevitably restricted.
Designated spectator areas run the length of both touchlines, although in places sections of high fencing get in the way. Traffic from the adjacent A1058 Coast Road provides a constant audible backdrop.
But, despite all that, this was a well-organised event and the Northern Alliance's top two sides provided a enjoyable game.
Burradon and New Fordley had won the league, going through the whole season unbeaten. Newbiggin finished runners-up, but that has been enough for promotion to the Northern League for next season.
Newbiggin started well, and deserved their 12th minute lead. Burradon took time to get going, but having hit their stride they equalised about seven minutes before half time.
Ten minutes into the second period Newbiggin went back in front, and this time they held their advantage. Burradon pressed for an equaliser, but the more they did the more vulnerable they were at the back.
Another goal looked inevitable, and after 78 minutes Newbiggin got it to secure a win, the trophy, and to end Burradon and New Fordley's unbeaten season.
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