NORTHERN LEAGUE

BISHOP Auckland remain six points clear at the top of the table after they romped to a win against struggling Sunderland RCA.

Dean Thexton and Dane Burlace both scored twice for the Two-Blues and there was a goal apiece from Andrew May, Jake Hackett and Joe Bartliff as the current front runners eased to a 7-0 win at Heritage Park.

Shildon continued their push for promotion by recovering from falling behind to claim a 4-1 win at Newcastle Benfield.

Third placed West Auckland Town saw off West Allotment Celtic at the Wanted Stadium and Whitley Bay earned a 2-1 home win against Guisborough Town.

Redcar Athletic enjoyed a 3-0 home win over bottom of the table Tow Law Town and Boro Rangers won 2-0 at Carlisle City. Crook Town made light of playing with ten men for 82 minutes as they earned a 1-1 draw at Heaton Stannington.

An outstanding hat-trick from Dan Rutherford laid the foundations for Seaham Red Star’s 3-1 home win against North Shields. Northallerton Town had a 4-2 home victory against Penrith.

Blyth Town continued their promotion push at Brandon United. Ben Fell put the current leaders in front on 19 minutes and their lead had been doubled by half-time by Brandon Slater. A late penalty from Ezzeldin Elbasty gave the hosts hope but Town held on to ensure they remain 12 points clear at the top of the table.

Newcastle Blue Star remain in second place but had to settle for a point in their 1-1 home game with Horden CW. Bedlington Terriers earned a 2-0 home win against Redcar Town to move level on points with Blue Star.

A Matthew Foster brace helped Newcastle University to a 3-0 victory against Washington.

Thornaby took the points at Chester-le-Street United 2-0.

Sunderland West End fell to a 2-1 defeat at Chester-le-Street Town.

Jarrow battled back from two goals down to secure a share of the spoils in their ‘home’ game against Prudhoe YC. Esh Winning and Billingham Town shared the points at West Terrace 2-2.