Finally, it’s time for the Robins to kickoff the 2026/27 EBAC Northern League Division One season!
In classic North Shields style, the first game would have to be against one of the hardest opponents we’d have to face across the whole league. Newton Aycliffe FC are a new side in the Division One table, after being relegated from the Premier Division last season.
They finished 21st, after winning only nine games all season, but without mining words, the team is tipped as one of the favourites to climb straight back up the league and get promoted, but Brian Smith and his Robins could prove to be tough opposition.
One result that may help the Robins feel like they can put up a good fight is Newton Aycliffe’s last recorded preseason result against West Auckland Town, who were previously stock of Division One. They won the playoffs last season, and were promoted to the Premier Division East.
West Auckland beat Newton Aycliffe 3-0. You may remember that after goals from Stephen Hall and Jordan Lashley, Shields went on to beat West Auckland by the same score line. This could potentially be an indicator of the team’s readiness to challenge those top teams for promotion.
If the start of this season is anything like the end of last season, Brian Smith’s side will be ready to battle with the best, chasing the all-important promotion spots.
New signing James Sloan used to play for Newton Aycliffe before Brian Smith snapped him up, and it could be an indicator that the teams are more evenly matched than meets the eye. The Robins have been recruiting higher up the pyramid, seen by the return of prolific striker Dan Wilson from Dunston UTS in the division above, and the return of Carter Milmore from the Gateshead FC youth setup. It gives Shields experienced players who know what it means to play up to the level and grind out the results needed to win games.
If you’re travelling on the supporter’s bus, thank you for your support, the bus will leave the ground at 10:45am. For those putting in the miles on their cars and making the trip to the Durham/Darlington border, we also thank you for your incredible support and hope to see you all at the match.
HOWAY THE ROBINS!
MATCH DETAILS:
Newton Aycliffe FC vs North Shields FC
EBAC Northern League Division 1 – Gameweek 1
Saturday 25th July
3pm Kick Off
Ther Ashcourt Group Stadium, Moore Lane, DL5 5AG
£8/37/£3
