Ryton & Crawcrook Albion kept alive their hopes of a top-five play-off spot in the Ebac Northern League Division 2 on Wednesday after a dramatic late second half comeback sealed three vital points against Birtley Town.

After a quiet and goalless first half at The Arrowmark Home Improvements Stadium, it was the hosts – playing in their final match of the season – who edged ahead through a deflected Joe Barwick header ten minutes into the second half.

Ryton, who had the better of the clear-cut chances during the game with Rhys McLeod denied several times, responded positively to going behind and deservedly got back on level terms from the penalty spot on 77 minutes. Konner Lamb was tripped in the area, Ben Garrity received a red card for his protests and captain Callum Turnbull cooly slotted home.

Albion were on top and sensing a winner. And they completed the turnaround with seven minutes remaining. Another wizardry run into the box by Lamb, who picked out Shaun Pickford, who – facing away from goal – brilliantly flicked it up, turned and smashed in the winner, sparking wild celebrations on the away bench and amongst the visiting support.

The win moves Daniel Iredale’s side back up to 3rd in the table – above Carlisle City, Easington Colliery and Tow Law Town. The chasing trio have game(s) in hand over the next 8 days – before the final day on April 30 and RACA’s showdown with title-chasing Carlisle.

Before that, focus turns to next Wednesday’s Ernest Armstorng Memorial Cup semi final tie at Easington. Tow Law meet Newcastle University in the other semi on Tuesday, while Carlisle face Wetheriggs United in the Final of the Cumberland Senior Cup.

Photo by Colin Robertshaw