North Shields vs Newcastle Blue Star (20/01/26)

Newcastle Blue Star may have been kicking their heels for nearly three weeks but their return to action on Saturday was certainly worth the wait. Paul Brayson’s men finally back in action, more reasons to celebrate at the final whistle.

With Boro Rangers making the trip to the KD Stadium, it was never going to be an easy task for Blue Star to complete but just like their Boxing Day visit to Carlisle City, it was a single goal that proved to be the difference.

All square at the interval as both sides showed their physicality in the first 45 minutes but it would not take long after the restart for Blue Star to get their heads in front. A towering header from Craig Scott breaking the deadlock much to the delight of the home fans.

An advantage that could have been doubled soon after but unfortunately Dan Lanning’s penalty was well saved by the Boro Rangers ‘keeper. However, even with a 1-0 lead to protect, Saturday’s visitors could not break down the hosts’ resolute defence.

A second clean sheet in as many matches to go alongside back-to-back victories, a pleasing sight for the management team and they will hope for more of the same in just a few hours. A short trip to North Shields awaits, a venue that has shown good fortune to Blue Star in the past.

None more so than when it comes to the FA Cup, just like the campaign before it was the Scotswood outfit who took a step closer to the Road to Wembley in the summer sun. A 2-0 win at the Darren Persson Stadium one of the early highlights of this season.

Of course, it is not cup progress that is on offer tonight, it is the bread of butter of league action. North Shields keen to close the gap on the handful of playoff hopefuls ahead. Blue Star keen to make further progress up the table by continuing their current momentum.

Something which sets up tonight’s clash rather nicely indeed. A big thanks to North Shields for the upcoming hospitality and for those attending from an away perspective, safe travels both there and back.