Albion have been drawn away to fellow Northern League Division 2 side Durham United in the Frank Pattison Challenge Cup Preliminary Round (Durham Challenge Cup in old money). While awaiting confirmation, this tie is likely to be played on Thursday 10th September.

FULL PRELIMINARY ROUND DRAW

Durham Corinthians v Sunderland AFC U18s

Boldon CA v Gateshead Rutherford

Easington Lane v Esh Winning & Deerness Valley

Billingham Synthonia v Washington

Whickham v Newton Aycliffe

Willington v Billingham Town

Chester le Street Town v Gateshead Leam Rangers

Hartlepool Pools Youth Seniors v Easington Colliery

Park View v Sunderland West End

South Shields v Darlington Railway Athletic

Sunderland RCA v Hartlepool United

Durham United v RACA

FT BILLINGHAM TOWN 1 RACA 0

RACA were unable to carry the momentum from Saturday’s win into tonight’s game against early trailblazers Billingham Town, as they went down to a 0-1 defeat on Teesside despite dominating the second half. A 10th minute spot kick converted by Town’s George Wilkinson being the defining moment in the match in which Albion deserved something to take back up the A19

MATCH REPORT

RACA visited second placed Billingham Town on a high from Saturday’s first win of the season & showed their intent within the first minute when a Jack Elliott cross was met by Charlie Grieveson whose powerful header wasn’t far wide of Theo Webster’s goal. However it was the hosts who were given the opportunity to open the scoring on 10 minutes when Chukwuka Unigwe showed his marker a clean pair of heels & raced into the Ryton box only to be brought down by keeper Callum Corkhill. Referee Leigh Musgrove awarded Billingham the penalty & booked Corkhill in the process. George Wilkinson stepped up & slotted the ball in the corner sending Corkhill the wrong way. In a half where goalscoring opportunities were at a premium RACA had a good chance to draw level in the 43^rd minute, when a Louis Calvert cross reached the unmarked Albe Fletcher, but he managed to sky his close range volley much to the merriment of the home support. Town might well have extended their lead in first half stoppage time had anyone got on the end of Unigwe’s fine cross from the right but thankfully for Ryton the ball completed its trip across the box unimpeded & the sides went into the interval separated by the single goal.

HT Billingham Town 1 RACA 0

Albion started the second half as they did the first, creating a good early chance from a cross from the left. This time Scott Oldfield floated the ball into the box, Kyle Atkinson flicking the ball to the unmarked Louis Calvert, but RACA’s top scorer couldn’t get a clean contact and the ball bounced harmlessly into Webster’s arms. Ryton thought they may have been awarded a penalty in the 48^th minute when Calvert was clattered into by Eddie Ormorod, but while Calvert tumbled into the box, the offence took place just outside of it & the officials got the decision about right to award the free kick. Calvert took the kick himself but it came to nought going a yard or two beyond the crossbar. RACA came within a whisker of levelling from another Elliott free kick on 51 minutes. This time amid the mother of all scrambles it saw Calvert both hit the bar then put the rebound over the top, again to the ironic cheers of the easily amused Town support. Louis Anderson had a half chance to open his season’s account in the 64^th minute following a Ryton break which saw Calvert lay off a fine ball to Joe Groves-Forbes on the right, & his cross picked out Anderson but the RACA No 9 couldn’t keep the ball down & it went over the bar. Albion were back on the offensive on 68 minutes when Charlie Grieveson made a run through the centre of the Blues defence, unleashing a shot that Webster could only parry into the path of Groves-Forbes who screwed his shot wide with defender Tyrese Grundle bearing down on him. On 76 minutes a Ryton corner taken by Fergus Lynch found the head of Rhys Hutchinson whose goal-bound effort was inadvertently blocked by a teammate & the Billingham goal remained intact. The Albion defence were comfortably coping with what little Town were creating up front, a 78^th minute tame effort from Billingham’s own Calum Johnston (our Callum Johnston still being out injured) about the best created by the hosts post interval. Calvert had one last change to level on 84 minutes taking advantage of some indecisive defending from Billingham but again his effort cleared the bar.

FT BILLINGHAM TOWN RACA 0

Albion can consider themselves unlucky to come away empty handed having dominated the second half against a side now sitting three points clear at the top of the table. While the result was disappointing the performance will surely have pleased the RACA management.

RACA- Corkhill, Beesley, Fletcher (Groves-Forbes 50), Grieveson (Lynch 71), Caygill, Plunkett, Lawson (Oldfield 11), Atkinson (Hutchinson 59), Anderson, Elliott (Bell 81), Calvert. Substitutes all used

Albion head to Bedford Terrace on Tuesday evening buoyant from the win over RCA. Second placed Town have had a fine start to the season, only dropping points for the first time on Saturday, drawing with Boldon who until then also had a 100% record. RACA won 3-0 in the corresponding fixture last season in April but will do well to replicate that result against the rejuvenated Blues. If you’re planning a trip down the A19, the address and postcode is Bedford Terrace, Billingham TS23 4AG. HOWAY THE RACA!

FT RACA 4 SUNDERLAND RCA 1 Attendance 195

Albion got their first win at the fourth attempt & in doing so condemned Sunderland to a fourth straight defeat. Charlie Grieveson, a late switch for Glenn Caygill got the early opener for RACA before Callum Guy’s deft lob levelled for RCA. Louis Calvert’s header had Ryton ahead at the interval & two second half goals from Joe Groves-Forbes & debutant Kyle Atkinson sealed the deal for RACA.

MATCH REPORT

Just three days after the Newcastle University meeting, Sunderland RCA visited the Oldhaulage Stadium for their league match against The Albion.

A disappointing loss that saw many chances missed left them desperate to regain their victory. 

Only four minutes into the match, a ball played by the Ryton defender created an opportunity for Louis Calvert but was fouled by the Sunderland full back. After a free kick was awarded, Louis Calvert’s cross lead to an early header from Charlie Grieveson who leapt into the air and guided the ball into the back of their net. A goal ahead with less than 5 minutes played, RACA didn’t sit back but instead wanted more. 

Sunderland remained full of energy and closed Ryton’s players down before they had time to react. Twenty-two minutes in and Corkhill’s miss-pass to Charlie Grieveson equalised the early advantage. The pass was quickly intercepted by Callum Guy and with Corkhill far off his line, the Sunderland striker had an easy shot to score. Levelling the scoreline after Corkhill’s slip-up increased tensions and left the tempo rising for both sides.

Just under half an hour, a through-ball was played for Jack Elliot who darted down his wing, battling to find space to cross the ball into the box. A ball swung towards the head of Louis Calvert who found the top corner and fired the ball past the hands of Lewis Charlton, regaining their lead as 2-1 with fifteen minutes until the break. 

The halftime whistle blew at Kingsley Park with RACA continuing their streak of scoring in every league match. Three goals having been scored in the first half yet another 45 minutes could increase that. Despite the vast increase in temperature from normality, both sides remained patient and focused throughout the match. 

Fifteen minutes into the second half and Ryton were seeking their third goal. It came from a simple headed finish by Groves-Forbes after a good cross that the Sunderland no.1 couldn’t deal with. The goal sealed their goal difference with less than half an hour left to play.

A free kick was awarded at the edge of the box against Dylan Lawson with ten minutes to go. Taken by Aaron Costello, the ball reached Sunderland’s wall before deflecting and being followed up by the debutant, Kyle Atkinson who sharply fired home. Ryton celebrated their first win of the season after 90 minutes of hard graft. 

Overall, a comfortable win for the Albion as they score four goals to one. Many good opportunities were created by both sides however Ryton had more of a clinical edge. A strong return from last season as they continue their winning run against them. 

Next Saturday, Sunderland visit again as the sides come together for the first qualifying round of the FA Vase. Before then, The Albion play away on Tuesday against Billingham Town as they hope to continue their victory by collecting another three points. 

RACA- Corkhill, Beesley, Fletcher, Lynch (Bailey 79), Grieveson, Plunkett, Elliott (Bell 62), Lawson, Anderson (Costello 62), Calvert (Groves-Forbes 58), Atkinson. All substitutes used

Albion face Sunderland RCA on Saturday needing to get on the board at home following two 1-2 defeats at the Oldhaulage Stadium. This fixture is a second division match but the following Saturday sees us host the same opponents in the FA Vase 1st Qualifying Round. After a 3-0 win away to basement club Durham United, RCA’s bright start has been followed by three defeats, at home to Boldon and Tow Law, then in midweek they lost 2-1 to Chester-le-Street Town at Moor Park despite leading at half time. So two teams that aren’t pulling up any trees just yet cross swords, and the game is an ideal opportunity for one team to kick start their season. RACA won this fixture last season 1-0 with Morgan Dart, now at Jarrow, scoring the only goal of the game, while the Wearsiders won 3-1 at Meadow Park around the same time of the year, Louis Anderson getting the Ryton goal that day.

Kick off is at the usual time of 3pm, hope you can make it. Howay The RACA!!

FT RACA 1 NEWCASTLE UNIVERSITY 2

Albion crashed to a second home defeat as neighbours Newcastle University left the Oldhaulage with all three points. One bright spot was the return to the scoresheet for Aaron Costello, his equaliser being his first RACA goal in over a season but goals from James Cleugh & Joel Burgess ensured the Students finished on top.

MATCH REPORT

Last night’s competitive and unpredictable home fixture for the Albion finished in a disappointing result. The final score 2-1 to Newcastle University, a young side, yet filled with courage and passion. The wind playing an enormous part for both sides, causing major disadvantages and an even tougher battle for all. 

Last season, the sides faced eachother 3 times, 2 being in the league and 1 in the quarter finals of the Ernest Armstrong Cup. Two of the three occasions RACA left victorious. However only 2 days after the cup match, another meeting was held at Essity Park, with the sides drawing 1-1. 

RACA, having had a tough start to the season remained hopeful and determined to bring the first set of 3 points to their home ground.

They began eager and full of energy, desperate to continue their unbeaten run against the opposition.Less than 5 minutes into the match and both sides raced forwards determined to gain the early advantage yet both efforts were denied. Louis Anderson, back from his break and wanting to prove his position within the team, cushioned the ball towards his winger who accurately crossed the ball for Costello’s chance. Further efforts from Anderson tested the University no.1, forcing multiple dives to protect his net. Only moments after the Albion attack, a quick change of play left RACAs defence exposed after a slip from the centre-half. The first effort was denied by Corkhill but James Cleugh’s effort rolled into the back of the net, leaving Ryton a goal behind. Only 17 minutes into the first half and the visitors goal sparked the flame for Ryton’s ambition. Aaron Costello burst into the oppositions box desperate for an opportunity and found himself space for an effort, which fired into the bottom left corner. Having ended his goal drought after over a season, he equalised the scoreline and raised all motivation for the home side. Further opportunities from both were bravely blocked and firmly defended, leaving the scoreline equal as the referee called the half time whistle. Neither team showed an inch of slack as the half carried out, with some fantastic play and creative chances shown. 

HT RACA 1 Newcastle University 1

Both teams marched out of their dressing rooms and onto the field, driven by the idea of leaving successful. 17 minutes played of the second half, several players surrounded Newcastle’s box and the ball rolled to RACAs forward who slotted it in the back of the net. Yet an offside call from the linesman left the scoreline untouched and their gain removed. Unfortunately, only moments after the offside call, Newcastle burst forwards, eager to catch RACA on the break and played the ball around the box tidily before Joel Burgess hit the ball past the hands of Corkhill, securing their lead with 2 goals to 1 with less than half an hour to go. At 87 minutes, a late opportunity played over the top of the university defence for Ethan Bewley to run onto almost evened the scoreline yet he struggled to keep his head down and the ball glided over the crossbar. Despite emotions rising and frustration dominating their tempers, they continued their roles until the final whistle. With a last minute chance from the visitors which was closed down by Corkhill but challenged by their striker meant the Ryton net was left wide open. A stern challenge from Nathan Beesley blocked their shot at goal and potential last minute consolidator. 

The final whistle blew at the Oldhaulage with the score finishing as 2-1 to Newcastle University. An evenly matched game against good opposition. Great chances created by the Albion forwards however their finish was sharply called offside and left them a goal behind. An unfortunate result for the lads as they finish their third match into the season without a win. However the match on Saturday vs Sunderland RCA gives them another chance at proving themselves and collecting 3 points.

RACA– Corkhill, Beesley, Oldfield, Lynch (Bell 73), Hayton, Wilson (Fletcher 86), Elliott (Hutchinson 73), Lawson, Anderson (Bailey 86), Calvert, Costello (Bewley 72). All subs used

Albion’s next game is tomorrow (Wednesday) evening when we host near neighbours Newcastle University with a kick off time of 7:30pm. The Students have had a mixed start to the season, winning their opening fixture at Essity Park 1-0 against newly promoted Stokesley, then losing 0-2 at home to the other promoted side, Seaton Carew, then losing 2-1 at the coast against AFC Newbiggin.

Last season this fixture saw RACA score four goals on both occasions we hosted the University, 4-0 in the league (Salkeld 2, Groves-Forbes & Bisset) and 4-2 in the Quarter Finals of the Ernest Armstrong Cup (Anderson 2, Calvert & Johnston) so something similar would go down well on Wednesday. The reverse league fixture at Essity Park just two days after the cup tie, finished 1-1 with Louis Calvert on target for RACA.

Now some news on former Albion coaching staff- Assistant manager to Tony Fawcett, Simon Moody has taken up a role as First Team coach at Northern Alliance Premier side North Shields Athletic where he links up with player son Jack who also played for RACA a few years ago. Meanwhile the goalkeeping coach from the same era Chris Stygal has secured the role of Men’s First Team Goalkeeping Performance Analyst at none other than Newcastle United. We wish both Si and Chris the best of fortune in their now roles.

After today’s draw, this month’s lucky winners are-

1st prize No 77 D Muse who wins £100

2nd Prize No 13 P Le Patourel who wins £75

3rd Prize No 1 D Cartner who wins £25

Next month’s draw is on 06/09/2026

Well done to our three winners, if you’d like to take part in this monthly fundraiser from just £5 a month, please contact us via the usual channels on the foot of the homepage or contact Paul le Patourel on 07720 413390. Thank-you

FT FC HARTLEPOOL 1 RACA 1

Albion put in a much better performance to come away from Grayfields with a deserved point, the first ever earned at FC Hartlepool’s home. Louis Calvert opened the scoring with a fine goal in the 18th minute having been much the better side in the first half. Despite that, Matty Lovett levelled on 36 minutes with an effort that bounced in off the inside of the post. The hosts were much improved after the break but couldn’t find a winner and the points were shared.

MATCH SUMMARY

Albion headed to Grayfields knowing they’d have to dramatically improve on Saturday’s showing if they were to take anything off FC Hartlepool in their own backyard, something they had failed to do in three previous visits. On a pleasant evening for football, a RACA starting XI with five changes to Saturday’s line up, did just that taking the game to the hosts in the opening period. Despite the lack of significant goalmouth action in the opening period, Albion were knocking the ball around sweetly and their dominance got its reward on 18 minutes when a knock forward from the returning Aaron Costello wasn’t properly dealt with by Pool defender Scott Close and Louis Calvert took full advantage, nipping in front of his opponent and firing home past Logan Douglas from the edge of the box. Ryton almost made it 2-0 from a 24^th minute corner when Glenn Caygill rose highest to head a powerful effort down which Douglas did well to parry before the ball was hoofed to safety amid a sea of legs. Pool had their first shot in anger on 27^th minute when Jordan Fielding found Mikey McGee on the edge of the box. He evaded the attentions of his marker before shooting across the goal, his effort going only narrowly wide. Albion responded on the half hour when a ball forward from Ethan Bewley was picked up by Costello, and his shot from an awkward angle stung the palms of Douglas who pushed the ball to safety. A Costello header in the 35^th minute from a Scott Oldfield cross wasn’t too far wide of the Hartlepool goal, but the hosts responded soon after with their equaliser. A Jake Stott throw was headed first by McGee, then Fielding before Matthew Lovatt scooped a shot that bounced off the inside of the post & nestled in the net to make it 1-1

HT FC Hartlepool 1 RACA 1

If Ryton were top dogs in the first half, FC were the stronger outfit after the break, Tom Gavin chanced his arm from outside the box on 56 minutes with a well struck shot which was only a yard wide of the crossbar. In the 63^rd minute, three Pool substitutes, Liam Appelby, Will Coxon and Olly Burrows combined to cause some angst in the Albion box, but the defence stood firm to intercept their combined efforts. Ryton’s nearest effort to scoring came in the 79^th minute following a fine run from Dylan Lawson, but his effort was smothered by Douglas. While there were one or two late scares as FC Hartlepool pushed for a winner, RACA held on for a deserved point.

FT FC HARTLEPOOL 1 RACA 1

RACA- Corkhill, Beesley, Oldfield, Lynch (Bell 66), Caygill, Hayton, Lawson, Hutchinson, Calvert (Atkinson 90+1), Bewley (Grieveson), Costello (Elliott 55). Sub not used- Fletcher

RACA make the first of their regular trips down the A19 tomorrow (Tuesday) night to face FC Hartlepool at Grayfields a fixture that is often an early season one, but unfortunately one that Pools have won on each occasion we have met. Their opening 2026/27 fixture was the curtain raiser on Friday night in which they drew 0-0 at Darlington Town, and they’ll be keen to get off the mark & extend their hoodoo over Ryton.

If you’re planning on heading down, the address for your satnav is Grayfields Enclosure, Jesmond Gardens, Hartlepool, TS24 8PJ