Ryton & Crawcrook Albion were beaten 4-1 by Birtley Town on Saturday in their final away Ebac Northern League Division 2 game of the season.

Albion deservedly went ahead at the Birtley Sports Complex with Josh Skivington’s 14th-minute strike but Glen Hargrave levelled on the half-hour mark. The hosts, who had already qualified for the promotion play offs, nudged ahead at the start of the second half through Matthew Ward before a late brace from Callum Smith (including a penalty) secured the win.

RACA, who sit precariously above the relegation zone in 18th position on 35 points, host Jarrow on Wednesday and Easington Colliery on Saturday in their final fixtures. Sunderland West End (19th) are two points behind with only one game remaining while Washington (20th) are a further two points behind but with four matches left.

Meanwhile, Jarrow are directly above RACA in 17th position in the table on 33 points with a total of three fixtures outstanding including the big head-to-head on Wednesday night.