HEATON STAN EDGE OUT STAR

Heaton Stannington 2-1 Seaham Red Star – Ebac Northern League Division One

 Heaton Stannington edged a close encounter against Seaham Red Star to earn all three points in the Ebac Northern League Division One.

The visitors got off to a great start just four minutes in – Bradley Chisholm was played through on goal before rounding the keeper and slotting home to give Seaham an early lead.

Heaton replied strongly and were almost level in the 17th minute when Joe Shepherd saw his downward header saved from a Nick Cassidy cross.

The hosts had another chance to even the score just two minutes later – Brad Hird was played through on goal before he was brought down in the area by Seaham stopper Andrew Jennison. Hird stepped up and sent Jennison the wrong way to bring his side level.

After a frantic opening 20 minutes, the tempo of the game cooled slightly. Both sides were played good football but were just unable to create a clear-cut chance. Mark Robinson went closest 10 minutes before the break, when he saw his effort from distance comfortably saved.

The opening 20 minutes of the second half was much like the last 20 minutes of the first. Both sides produced good attacking moves but just lacked that extra bit of quality in the final third.

Heaton gained the lead just over 20 minutes from time – a looping cross into the area was met by Alfie Marriott, who out jumped Jennison and sent his header into the back of the net.

Seaham pushed forward in numbers but were missing composure in the final third, sending several efforts wide of the mark.

Substitute Jordan Lashley had a great chance to extend his side’s lead in the final minutes – a counter attack sent him one-on-one with Jennison, however he saw his effort saved.

Heaton held on to seal a massive three points in what was a tightly contested affair. Heaton Stannington travel to Penrith in their next match, whilst Seaham Red Star host Northallerton Town.

Adam Gill