By Adam Ingoe
With the Northern League Division One play-offs looming and competition tightening, the race for promotion has never been more intense. The big question remains: Can Newcastle Blue Star make the play-offs? And if so, how likely is it?
Recent Form
Newcastle Blue Star have showcased strong winning form in recent weeks. Their latest 1-2 away victory over Carlisle City was a thriller, with Michael Ndewini and Connor Macleod both finding the net. This win keeps them in good form and winning momentum, which will be crucial as they head into their final eight games.
Manager Marc Nash, speaking after the victory, emphasised the importance of the upcoming fixtures:
“We look forward to some really crunch games coming round. When you’ve got teams who’ve got something to play for, the games will be better—both teams will be up for it. We’ve put ourselves in a good place; it’s up to us.”
Looking ahead to their next match, Tow Law Town, despite sitting at the bottom of the table, will be fighting to salvage points in a last-ditch effort to avoid relegation. This could make the fixture more challenging than anticipated. However, given both teams’ recent form, a Blue Star victory appears the most likely outcome.
Battle for the Playoffs
Newcastle Blue Star currently hold fifth place with a solid 64 points. However, as the season nears its conclusion, the competition around the play-off spots is heating up. Every game now represents a crucial step toward promotion.
In their last six matches, The Star have won three, drawn one, and lost two. With eight games left to play, their immediate priority must be holding onto their playoff position. However, other contenders are closing in fast.
Newcastle Benfield, sitting comfortably in sixth place with 62 points, are in strong form, having won four of their last six games. The Lions will be pushing to close the gap and challenge Blue Star directly. Their upcoming fixture against North Shields will be a tough test, but given their motivation, a victory isn’t out of reach.
Boro Rangers, just one point ahead of Blue Star, will be tough to overtake. They have won four of their last six games and lost only once, making them well-positioned to defend their spot—or even push for third place by overtaking Blyth Town. However, their next fixture against Redcar Athletic, the soon-to-be champions, presents its own challenges—a scenario Newcastle Blue Star may look to capitalise on.
The Final Stretch
With everything still to play for, Newcastle Blue Star’s path to the playoffs remains uncertain but achievable. Their fate will depend on how well they maintain momentum, navigate key fixtures, and handle pressure from rivals. One thing is certain—every point counts from here on out.
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