Northern League: Easington Colliery boss ready for challenging week after Carlisle City win

Easington Colliery manager Olly Hotchkiss has warned his players they are facing a tough week as they look to build on an impressive home win against Carlisle City.

In what was their first Welfare Park fixture of the season, the Colliers made a roaring start as a Liam Adamson brace put them firmly in control by the time the half-time whistle had been blown. Aiden Stanton extended the lead eight minutes after the restart before Brad Hird rounded off a fine performance from Hotchkiss’ men with 13 minutes remaining. A late Ewan Tedford goal was a mere consolation for their visitors - but that couldn’t take the shine from a very promising display from the Colliers.

Another home game against Newcastle Blue Star is next on the agenda on Wednesday night before the focus turns towards Saturday’s FA Cup extra preliminary round tie at Northern League Division One rivals Whitley Bay on Saturday afternoon. Hotchkiss is looking forward to the challenges that lie ahead for his side over the coming days and he revealed he is anticipating a ‘fascinating’ contest against Blue Star in midweek.

He told The Echo: “One thing we spoke about was trying to win those home games and picking up points away. That’s the design of a good side. This season is going to be really tricky. Games are coming thick and fast and there is quality opposition across the group. But this is a good time for the club, it’s a good time for the Northern League and there is a big week lying ahead from us. Blue Star have had a lot of changes and games with them have always been fascinating after we played them in the Division Two play-off final. They’re in a transitional period but they still have some very, very good players in their squad.”

Division One results

Friday: Newcastle Blue Star 1-2 Whickham Saturday: Birtley Town 2-3 Yarm and Eaglescliffe, Bishop Auckland 0-2 Shildon, Crook Town 4-0 Penrith, Easington Colliery 4-1 Carlisle City, Kendal Town 1-1 Redcar Town, Marske United 0-1 Blyth Town, Newcastle Benfield 2-0 Whitley Bay, Northallerton Town 0-4 North Shields, Thornaby 4-1 Newton Aycliffe

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