Northern League: Costello on target to give Mechanics lift-off
Graham Fenton’s Robins scored first as Ryan Carr converted a cross at the far post 11 minutes into the second period.
It didn’t take Steve Hutchinson’s men long to equalise, though. Marc Costello picked up a pass and delivered a tremendous finish which gave goalkeeper Kyle Hayes no chance.
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Hide AdShildon, widely fancied to defend their title, made it three wins out of three by beating Penrith.
Martyn Coleman converted a 44th-minute penalty for the Cumbrians, who were undone when Paul Connor, Lewis Dodds and David Ferguson all found the net in the space of 12 second-half minutes.
FA Vase holders Morpeth Town edged Consett by the odd goal at three at Craik Park.
In first-half stoppage time, Ryan McKinnon drilled a ball past Consett goalkeeper Shaun McDonald and when Liam Henderson made it two on 80 minutes, it looked all over for the Steelmen.
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Hide AdBut in added time, Michael Sweet gave them a late lifeline only for Morpeth to hold on for their first win.
Bishop Auckland surprisingly defeated Marske United with ease at Heritage Park – although the Seasiders’ aspirations weren’t helped when they conceded two penalties, both of which were converted by Andrew Johnson.
And to make matters worse, Marske leaked a third goal as Jeff Smith fired home from 20 yards.
An own goal by Liam McPhillips and one from Liam Thear eased Dunston UTS to victory at Guisborough Town for whom Richard Slaughter had levelled.