The Robins face a journey to County Durham on Saturday when they come up against fellow promotion hopefuls Newton Aycliffe at the Beaumont Landscapes Stadium.
Shields have already faced Colin Stromsoy’s men this season, with two goals from Ryan Carr and a solo effort from loanee Callum Patton securing a closely fought 3-2 win at the Daren Persson Stadium.
And after the League Cup victory over Ryton & Crawcrook Albion, North Shields will enter this weekend on a run of four wins in a row.
But Newton Aycliffe will pose a tough challenge for Marc Nash’s team, with a 3-0 win over Guisborough Town the sides fourth win on the bounce.
Despite having lost top goalscorer Dean Thexton to Shildon AFC, Stromsoy has recruited a quality replacement, with former West Auckland Town striker Adam Burnicle fitting into the team seamlessly.
However, in Kyle Patton, North Shields have one of the in form attackers in the entire division, with the former Bishop Auckland and Whitley Bay product on 21 goals so far this season.
What Happened Last Time
The last time Shields travelled away to face Newton Aycliffe, both sets of supporters were treated to a six-goal thriller, with the Robins coming out 4-2 winners.
Despite going a goal behind to an early strike from Tom Gavin, experienced midfielder Paul Robinson brought the side level at the half time break.
Goals from Gary Day and Craig Spooner helped Shields to a 3-1 lead midway through the second period, before a Robinson thunderbolt put the game beyond doubt.
Matthew Pennal did score a late consolation but Shields were more than deserving of the victory.
Should Newton Ayclife win on Saturday, they will go level on points with Consett, albeit one place below them due to an inferior goal differance.
However, if Shields pick up all three points, they will climb above Saturday’s hosts into fifth place, level with fourth-placed Consett but having played one game less.
