Castle win historic cup clash

Newcastle Town's youngsters emerged as 2-1 winners from their history making Sentinel Shield game against Stafford Rangers in midweek, writes Ray Tatton.

But the Castle's Under 16s needed extra-time to beat their Evo-Stik Northern Premier League rivals in Thursday night's historic fixture at their Aspire Stadium.

Apart from finals and semi-finals, the fixture was the first to be played under spotlights in the competition's 88 year history and all proceeds from the clash were donated to charitable causes in the area.

Holders Town won the trophy last season at Vale Park with a 2-1 extra time victory over Stoke Rams. Against Evo-Stik NPL Premier Division Rangers they were held to a stalemate until soon after half time when Kurt Beaver headed home to break the deadlock. Stafford hit back to take the tie into extra-time before Zach Robinson scored from the penalty spot to send them through.

Newcastle Town's Gavin Appleby said: "It was a great occasion for both teams and I'd like to thank the hard work of our groundstaff and Geoff Eccleston to get the game on so a good crowd could watch the youth of tomorrow. We are looking to reach the final for the third year running but there are some good teams left in and there is a long way to go."