Ryton & Crawcrook Albion have confirmed their pre-season schedule ahead of the 2025/26 Ebac Northern League Division Two campaign, with six fixtures lined up.
Preparations officially get underway with the return to training on Saturday 7th June, giving manager Nathan Beckham and his coaching staff ample time to assess the squad and implement plans ahead of the new season, which is set to begin on Saturday 26th July.
The pre-season fixture list kicks off on Saturday 5th July with a trip to Easington Colliery. They finished 13th in their first season in the First Division last term and impressed with a League Cup triumph, making them strong opposition to start the schedule.
Next up is a midweek fixture at Ponteland United on Wednesday 9th July. Ponteland compete in the Northern Football Alliance Premier Division and finished last season in 6th place.
On Saturday 12th July, Albion supporters will get their first chance to see the team at home as Newcastle Chemfica visit the Oldhaulage Stadium. Chemfica also play in the Alliance and enjoyed a strong campaign, finishing 7th and securing silverware with a Bill Gardner Cup win.
A quick turnaround sees Ryton make a short trip to face Birtley Town on Monday 14th July. Another First Division side, Birtley ended their season in 16th position and will provide another stern test against higher-tier opposition.
The schedule continues on Wednesday 16th July with an away match at Wallington, who were one of the top-performing teams in the Alliance, finishing 3rd.
Finally, pre-season concludes with a home clash on Saturday 19th July against Collegians, a side from the top tier of the Yorkshire Amateur League – the equivalent level to the Alliance. Kick-off at the Oldhaulage Stadium is set for 1pm.
With a strong mix of opposition lined up, the pre-season campaign will offer plenty of minutes and opportunities for players to impress before the real action kicks off.
Ticketing information for all pre-season friendlies will follow in due course.
Please note that fixtures, venues, dates and kick-off times are subject to change.