Yarm & Eaglescliffe vs Newcastle Blue Star (29/08/2026)

A rare midweek off in this season’s early schedule and after the way Saturday’s clash at home to Northallerton concluded, the additional rest would have been welcome to the players and supporters in Blue Star colours.

After Paul Brayson’s men fell behind to Northallerton at the KD Stadium, there was a sense that it was going to end up as one of those days. Chance after chance being swatted away be the opposition’s number one, his goal frame also living something of a charmed life.

Then again, if you’ve been watching Blue Star over the years, you should know by now that it is not over until its over and with Collins Unaerokpa finally finding an equaliser in the 91st minute, a grandstand finish to the encounter then ensued.

While the tension within Scotswood raised further just two minutes later when the hosts were awarded a penalty. Jakub Zych’s effort and subsequent rebound saved by Blue Star’s nemesis in goal, it looked like the points may have to be shared.

That was until one final roll of the dice and with Dean Armstrong managing to prod home from close range, heartbreak for Northallerton was matched by sheer jubilation and relief for Blue Star. A league win that was not for the faint hearted but more importantly, a third in four league outings.

While it was a victory that has placed Blue Star further up the Northern League Division One table and with a head of steam now behind this group of players, they will look for further progress when they face Yarm & Eaglescliffe in just a few hours.

A trip to Billingham awaits on this Bank Holiday weekend and there is no doubt that last season’s promoted outfit have made a smooth transition to life a level above having won four of their first seven league outings – a record that will certainly not be overlooked by their upcoming opponents.

Something which sets up this clash rather nicely indeed. A big thanks to Yarm & Eaglescliffe for the upcoming hospitality and for those attend.