Recap

Redcar Athletic became champions of the Northern League in all but name with a narrow victory over Blyth Town in front of a record-breaking league crowd.

740 spectators piled into the B&D Interiors Stadium to witness the Steelmen lurch onto the precipice of promotion. A Cameron Gascoigne own goal sealed the deal amidst ninety minutes of pure tension.

Failing an utter capitulation at Welfare Park the likes of which has never been seen, the trophy will be within the grasp of Danni Lay this time next Saturday.

Riding the coattails of a stellar showing in Newcastle last weekend, Carl Jarrett opted to field an unchanged eleven.

It was clear from the start Blyth Town were not prepared to roll over. The Northumbrians took the fight to Redcar, and only a quick reaction from Josh Mazfari denied Adam Johnson.

Marcus Giles twice found the advertising hoardings from range, whilst Dan Wilson looked to capitalise on a defensive mistake, only to find Danni Lay in his path.

A delightfully cushioned header from Nathan Guru first fed Mark Anderson for the Steelmen. The midfielder lashed an effort wide on the volley, but had Neil de Jesus scrambling.

It was Anderson’s free kick delivery which paved the way for the decisive moment. Flicked on by Oscar Fletcher, the ball was turned past his own goalkeeper by a forlorn Cameron Gascoigne.

Redcar’s hunt for a second was relatively unpromising. Chay Liddle found Bradley Fewster on a breakaway, but the forward fired wide. Mark Anderson’s run was smothered by Neil de Jesus.

Oscar Fletcher pinged an effort over the bar, whilst Curtis Round was crowded out in the area as he looked to make headway.

Blyth Town continued to rally their might in a mission for parity. Their greatest opportunity came through Danni Lay, whose header was tipped behind the stanchion by a flying Josh Mazfari.

The final whistle brought a stream of supporters onto the field. Champagne was popped, lungs were pushed to the limits, and Oscar Fletcher found himself yet again in front of that camera.

Redcar now go to Welfare Park to claim to Northern League trophy. Failing a record breaking 30 goal swing, it’ll be decked out red and navy ribbons, and hoisted towards the clouds by our very own Danni Lay.

Steelmen: Mazfari, Guru, Round, Liddle, Gott, Lay, Anderson (Burgess 86’), Joe Taylor (Guy 90’), Boyes, Fletcher, Fewster (Cann 70’)

Next Match: Easington Colliery (a) | Saturday 19 April 2025