Bransay Athletic: Land of the Giants

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Bransay Athletic today clinched a coveted Northern Premier League Division One East play-off spot with a hard-fought 0-0 draw against champions Consett at Belle Vue Stadium on the final day of the 2033/34 season.

In a match dominated by the title-winning hosts, Bransay’s resolute defending - led by goalkeeper Craig Daly and centre-backs Joe Prendergast and Espen Jenssen - secured a vital clean sheet that propelled the Irons into 5th place on 68 points.

Marske United’s 2-0 defeat to Shildon and Bishop Auckland’s 4-1 win over Stocksbridge Park Steels set the stage for a dramatic finale, with Bransay’s superior goal difference of 25, compared to Bishop Auckland’s 10, proving decisive in securing their play-off berth.

Coming into the final day, Bransay held a one-point lead over Bishop Auckland and a goal difference advantage over both them and Marske United, who were also on 67 points. A win would have guaranteed a play-off spot, but even a draw was enough if results elsewhere went their way.

Consett, already crowned champions, threw everything at Bransay, creating several gilt-edged chances, but Daly’s heroics in goal, including a stunning reflex save from a close-range header and the commanding presence of Prendergast and Jenssen at the back ensured the Irons held firm. Despite limited attacking threat, Bransay showed the grit that has defined their debut NPL East campaign, frustrating Consett’s relentless pressure to earn a point.

News of Marske United’s 2-0 loss at Shildon’s Dean Street sparked hope among the travelling Bransay faithful, but Bishop Auckland’s 4-1 victory at Stocksbridge Park Steels’ Bracken Moor Lane meant the final standings hinged on goal difference.

Both Bransay and Bishop Auckland finished on 68 points, but Bransay’s 25 goal difference - bolstered by earlier thrashings like 5-1 wins over Gainsborough Trinity and 4-0 victories over Redcar Athletic - trumped Bishop Auckland’s 10, sending the Irons into the play-offs and leaving Auckland heartbroken.

The result sets up a semi-final clash against 2nd-placed Shildon at Dean Street on Tuesday, 25th April, while Wakefield AFC host Whickham at the Be Well Support Stadium on the same day. Shildon, who finished with 58 points, will be formidable opponents, but Bransay’s 3-2 win over them earlier in the season offers hope. The winners will face off in the play-off final for a chance to join Consett in the NPL Premier Division.

For manager Callum Baird, this marks the first season in over a decade at Bransay without a title and automatic promotion, a remarkable streak that saw the club rise from the North Northumberland League to the NPL East. Yet, Baird remains focused on maintaining his promotion record via the play-offs. “I’m immensely proud of the lads today,” Baird said post-match. “Consett threw everything at us, but Daly, Prendergast and Jenssen were colossal. We knew Marske and Bishop Auckland were threats, but our goal difference held up and that’s a testament to our attacking play this season. Shildon’s a tough draw, but we’re ready to give it everything. Our fans were our 12th man again - they’ll carry us to Dean Street.”

Bransay’s journey to the play-offs has been a rollercoaster. Their FA Cup run to the Second Round, including wins over Shrewsbury Town and FC United of Manchester and their Integro League Cup campaign, which ended in the Fourth Round, showcased their potential, while a early season dip saw them languishing in 14th in August.

Key players like Ryan Tioffo, Zoltán Németh, Wayne Easton and Jakub Adamczyk - who departs for Korona Kielce in July - have driven their resurgence, with a 3-1 win over Billingham Town last week proving pivotal.

As Bransay prepare for Shildon, a play-off semi-final is uncharted territory for a club that has defied expectations for a decade, but with their defensive steel and attacking flair, they are ready to dream of the NPL Premier Division.

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Bransay Athletic are one step away from promotion to the Northern Premier League Premier Division after a commanding 4-2 win over 2nd-placed Shildon in the NPL Division One East Play-Off Semi-Final at Dean Street tonight.

In front of a passionate crowd of over 1,250, including over 160 travelling supporters from Bransay, the Irons overcame an early penalty miss to dominate with goals from Ryan Tioffo, Zoltán Németh and Matt Gordon. Despite late resistance from Shildon, Bransay never looked in doubt, setting up a Play-Off Final showdown against Whickham at the Glebe Sports Ground on Saturday, 29th April.

The match began with a nervy moment for Bransay when, in the 11th minute, Dieudonné Belinga stepped up for a penalty but fired wide, sending the travelling fans’ hearts into their mouths. However, the miss only galvanised the Irons, who took control in the 18th minute. Wayne Easton’s incisive cut-through pass found Tioffo, who coolly slotted into the bottom left corner to give Bransay a 1-0 lead.

Five minutes later, in the 23rd minute, Németh doubled the advantage, latching onto a forward ball from Gordon and firing between goalkeeper Webb’s legs. Németh struck again in the 33rd minute, racing onto a long ball over the top from Cian Byrne and finding the far left corner to make it 3-0, sending the Bransay contingent into raptures.

Shildon, who finished the regular season with 58 points, responded in the 49th minute when Isaac Harrington’s corner found Jacub Putman on the edge of the box, his shot nestling into the near left bottom corner to pull it back to 3-1.

But Bransay’s attacking flair shone through in the 62nd minute, as Németh’s cutback set up Gordon to rifle a top-right-corner strike from the edge of the box, restoring the three-goal cushion at 4-1.

Shildon grabbed a late consolation in the 87th minute, with Alex Brierley heading in Putman’s cross, but it was too little, too late. Craig Daly, Joe Prendergast and Espen Jenssen stood firm in defence, ensuring Bransay’s place in the final.

Manager Callum Baird was jubilant post-match, praising his team’s resilience. “Missing a penalty early could’ve rattled us, but the lads showed incredible character,” Baird said. “Tioffo’s finish, Németh’s brace, Gordon’s screamer - that’s the Bransay we know. Shildon are a quality side, but we never looked in doubt after Belinga’s miss. Our 160 fans were unreal - they brought Forge Road to Dean Street. Now it’s Whickham in the final and we’re ready to give everything to go up.”

Bransay’s path to the Play-Offs was sealed with a 0-0 draw against champions Consett on the final day, where their 25 goal difference edged out Bishop Auckland’s 10 to secure 5th place on 68 points.

Their semi-final performance showcased the attacking prowess of Tioffo, Németh, and Gordon, while Jakub Adamczyk - bound for Poland in July - continued to dazzle.

In the other semi-final, 4th-placed Whickham defeated 3rd-placed Wakefield AFC 2-0 at the Be Well Support Stadium, with goals from Martin Barry and Ryan Battrum. Whickham, who finished the regular season with 74 points, will host the final at their Glebe Sports Ground, presenting a formidable challenge. Bransay’s 1-0 league win over Whickham in December, thanks to Belinga’s goal, offers hope, but the final promises to be a tense affair.

For Baird, this is uncharted territory. After a decade of winning titles and automatic promotions, this is his first season without a championship, but a Play-Off victory would maintain his perfect promotion record. “Whickham are tough, and playing at their ground won’t be easy,” Baird said. “But we’ve got the momentum, the fans, and the belief. We’ve come from the North Northumberland League to this in nine years. One more win, and we’re in the NPL Premier Division.”

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Bransay Athletic’s dreams of promotion to the Northern Premier League Premier Division were shattered in a gut-wrenching 3-2 defeat to Whickham in the NPL Division One East Play-Off Final at the Glebe Sports Ground this afternoon.

Nearly 700 fans, including almost 250 passionate Bransay supporters who made the trip to Whickham, witnessed a thrilling encounter that saw the Irons fight back twice but ultimately fall short. Goals from Stephen Flint and a brace from Theo Carroll secured Whickham’s place alongside champions Consett in the NPL Premier Division, while Bransay must regroup for another season in the NPL East.

The match got off to a frenetic start, with Whickham taking the lead in the 5th minute. Theo Durrant’s corner found Stephen Flint, who rose above the Bransay defence to head home and send the home crowd into early raptures.

Bransay responded in the 13th minute, as Conner Burrows surged down the left and delivered a perfect low cross for Ryan Tioffo to finish clinically, levelling the score at 1-1 and igniting the travelling fans.

The Irons’ momentum was short-lived, however, as Whickham regained the lead in the 32nd minute. Durrant played in Theo Carroll, who lashed a shot off the inside of the far right post to make it 2-1. Just two minutes later, in the 34th minute, Carroll struck again, capitalising on a long free-kick from Harrison Clark punted from the halfway line to find the bottom right corner, leaving Bransay reeling at 3-1.

Despite the deficit, Bransay showed the resilience that carried them to a 4-2 semi-final win over Shildon. They pushed for a comeback in the second half, with Zoltán Németh and Matt Gordon testing Whickham’s defence, but the hosts held firm.

In the 89th minute, Bransay gave their fans hope when Burrows’ cross was nodded down at the far post by Ren Yamada, allowing Tioffo to score from close range and make it 3-2. The final moments were frantic, but Whickham’s defence, marshalled by Clark, stood tall and the final whistle sparked celebrations among the home supporters while Bransay’s players sank to their knees in despair.

Manager Callum Baird was visibly emotional but proud of his squad’s effort. “It’s heartbreaking to come so close and fall short,” Baird said. “Whickham were clinical and those two quick goals before half-time hurt us. Tioffo was immense with his brace and Burrows’ deliveries were top-class, but we just couldn’t find that equaliser. Our fans were incredible. We’ll dust ourselves off, learn from this, and come back stronger next season.”

Bransay’s journey to the Play-Off Final was a testament to their remarkable debut season in the NPL East. After securing a play-off spot with a 0-0 draw against Consett on the final day, edging out Bishop Auckland on goal difference, they dispatched Shildon 4-2 in the semi-final.

Their FA Cup run to the Second Round, including victories over Shrewsbury Town and FC United of Manchester and their Integro League Cup campaign added to a memorable year.

For Baird, this marks the first season in over a decade without promotion, ending a streak that saw Bransay rise from the North Northumberland League to the NPL East. Yet, finishing 5th and reaching the Play-Off Final in their first NPL East campaign is a significant achievement. “We’ve shown we belong at this level,” Baird added. “Whickham earned it today, but we’re not far off. With a few tweaks and the same hunger, we’ll be challenging for the title next season.”

Whickham, who finished 4th with 74 points, celebrated their promotion with their fans, earning a place in the NPL Premier Division after a 2-0 semi-final win over Wakefield AFC. For Bransay, the defeat stings, but the supporters who roared them on will return to Forge Road with pride.

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As I sit down to review March and April 2034, I’m filled with a mix of pride and heartbreak. These final two months of our debut Northern Premier League Division One East season were a rollercoaster, with 10 matches across league and play-offs yielding 7 wins, 1 draw, and 2 losses.

We surged into the play-offs with a thrilling 3-1 win over Billingham Town, secured our spot with a 0-0 draw against champions Consett, and stormed past Shildon 4-2 in the semi-final. But the 3-2 loss to Whickham in the Play-Off Final at Glebe Sports Ground left us agonisingly short of promotion to the NPL Premier Division.

We kicked off March with a 3-0 win over Billingham Synthonia at Forge Road on 4th March. Matt Gordon broke the deadlock in the 58th minute, latching onto Billy Warwick’s precise through ball to slot into the bottom right corner. Zoltán Németh doubled the lead in the 61st, heading in Jakub Adamczyk’s whipped cross, and Dieudonné Belinga sealed it in the 90th, tapping in Wayne Easton’s low cross after a surging run.

On 11th March, we beat West Auckland Town 4-2 at Darlington Road. Ryan Tioffo struck in the 2nd minute, finishing Easton’s cutback into the near left corner. Németh made it 2-0 in the 12th, curling a shot into the top right from Gordon’s layoff. Cyrus Axon pulled one back with a penalty in the 18th, but Belinga restored our two-goal lead with a penalty in the 51st. David Williams scored in the 58th from Resharne McLean’s pass, but Espen Jenssen’s towering header from Ryan Hassan’s corner in the 93rd clinched the points.

On 18th March, we dispatched Stocksbridge Park Steels 2-0 at Forge Road. Belinga scored a penalty in the 30th minute after a handball, and Ren Yamada made it 2-0 in the 33rd, rifling a shot into the top left from Belinga’s square ball.

Our momentum stalled on 25th March with a 2-1 loss to Shildon at Dean Street. Jacub Putman opened the scoring in the 44th minute, finding the bottom left from a free-kick. Josh Eppiah doubled Shildon’s lead in the 45+2nd, tapping in Putman’s low cross. Németh pulled one back in the 57th, heading in Easton’s deep cross, but we couldn’t find an equaliser.

April began with a 4-2 win over Emley at Forge Road on 1st April. Rafferty Hyland put Emley ahead in the 18th minute, scoring from Theo Flanagan’s cutback. Tioffo equalised in the 23rd, volleying in Németh’s lofted pass. Mervyn Hunter restored Emley’s lead in the 35th from Jared Chand-Doy’s through ball, but Németh levelled just before half-time in the 45th, curling into the far right corner. Easton put us ahead in the 68th, smashing in Jenssen’s layoff from a cleared corner, and Gordon sealed it in the 85th, tapping in Adamczyk’s low cross.

On 8th April, we edged Washington 5-4 at Eppleton Colliery Welfare Ground in a nine-goal thriller. Németh scored in the 18th minute, heading in a long ball from Cian Byrne. He added another in the 20th, slotting in Belinga’s through ball. Adamczyk made it 3-0 in the 34th, heading in Dean Culbert’s cross. Belinga’s tap-in from Warwick’s square ball in the 45+2nd made it 4-0. Washington fought back with Kavan Stainsby’s goal in the 60th from Ronan Vaughan’s pass, Nathaniel Nkunku’s strike in the 65th from Jordan Allard’s assist, and Allard’s goal in the 81st from Jahziah Linton’s cross. Németh completed his hat-trick in the 80th, tapping in Easton’s low cross, but Vaughan’s 96th-minute goal from Murray Dalziel’s assist kept it close.

On 15th April, we secured a crucial 3-1 win over Billingham Town at Forge Road, pushing us into the play-off spots. Jack Leahy scored at the near post in the 53rd minute due to poor positioning by Craig Daly. Joe Prendergast equalised in the 60th with a thunderous near-post header from Easton’s corner. Tioffo gave us the lead in the 71st, slotting in Németh’s low cross after Warwick’s pass. Gordon confirmed the win in the 84th, curling into the top right corner after Yamada’s layoff from Burrows’ pass following Adamczyk’s tackle in the box.

On 22nd April, we drew 0-0 with Consett at Belle Vue Stadium on the final day, securing our play-off spot. Consett dominated, but Daly, Prendergast, and Jenssen were immense, keeping a vital clean sheet. Marske United’s 2-0 loss to Shildon and Bishop Auckland’s 4-1 win over Stocksbridge left us tied with Auckland on 68 points, but our 25 goal difference trumped their 10.

On 25th April, we beat Shildon 4-2 in the Play-Off Semi-Final at Dean Street. Despite Belinga missing a penalty in the 11th, Tioffo scored in the 18th, finding the bottom left from Easton’s pass. Németh made it 2-0 in the 23rd, firing through Webb’s legs from Gordon’s ball, and added another in the 33rd, slotting into the far left from Byrne’s long ball. Isaac Harrington’s corner set up Jacub Putman’s near-left strike in the 49th, but Gordon’s top-right rocket from Németh’s cutback in the 62nd made it 4-1. Alex Brierley’s header from Putman’s cross in the 87th was a consolation.

Our season ended on 29th April with a heartbreaking 3-2 loss to Whickham in the Play-Off Final at Glebe Sports Ground. Stephen Flint headed in Theo Durrant’s corner in the 5th minute. Tioffo equalised in the 13th, finishing Burrows’ low cross. Theo Carroll scored twice—lashing in off the far right post in the 32nd from Durrant’s pass and finding the bottom right from Harrison Clark’s long free-kick in the 34th. Tioffo’s close-range goal in the 89th from Yamada’s nod-down of Burrows’ cross sparked hope, but Whickham held on.

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The final league table saw Consett win the title with 78 points, followed by Shildon, Wakefield, and Whickham who were promoted via the Play-Offs. We finished 5th with 68 points, tied with Bishop Auckland but ahead on goal difference.

Marske United missed out in 7th with 67 points, followed by Barton Town, Billingham Town and Washington, West Auckland Town, Cleethorpes Town, Redcar Athletic, Emley, Billingham Synthonia and Whitby Town.

Hessle Sporting Club, Newcastle Blue Star, Stocksbridge Park Steels and Gainsborough Trinity were relegated.

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After a heartbreaking 3-2 loss to Whickham in the Play-Off Final, we’ve overhauled the squad and are ready to go one better. The bookies have us as joint-second favourites at 9/2 alongside Bishop Auckland and promoted Polonia Yorkshire, with Emley the frontrunners at 4/9 thanks to their tycoon’s cash. But with new faces and a solid core, I’m confident we can challenge for the title and secure promotion to the NPL Premier Division.

Emley AFC, under new manager Dermot Morrissey, are the clear favourites at 4/9 after another injection of funds from South Korean tycoon Dong-Soo Lee. Their wage bill and transfer fees dwarf the league and after sacking Ben Barclay mid-season, they climbed from rock bottom to 14th with 44 points.

Bishop Auckland (9/2), led by Alan Warne, are joint-second favourites after finishing 6th on 68 points, narrowly missing the play-offs due to our superior goal difference. Polonia Yorkshire, fresh from winning the NCEL Premier Division, match our 9/2 odds, their attacking style making them a dark horse.

Washington, at 13/2 under Sam Wort, aim to improve on their 8th-place finish. Shildon, West Auckland Town and Marske United are joint 9/1, with Shildon and Marske carrying momentum from last season. Relegated Morpeth Town (10/1), Cleethorpes Town (11/1), Wakefield AFC and Barton Town (13/1) and Redcar Athletic (14/1) form a competitive mid-tier.

Newly promoted Crook Town (25/1), Whitby Town and Billingham Town (33/1), Billingham Synthonia and relegated Worksop Town (50/1), Dunston (150/1), and relegated Hebburn Town (300/1) complete the field.

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This summer was a rebuild. We lost key players, with Richie Barron and Dean McCartney leaving on free transfers - McCartney joining Newcastle Blue Star in the division below. Harrison Beeden, Cian Byrne, Hayden Lindley and Romuald Ouattara were released, as were academy graduates Aled Griffiths and Joe Prendergast, the latter departing after 160 league appearances, 10 goals, and 9 assists at centre-back. Oliver Walters, with 126 appearances, 36 goals, and 28 assists across two spells since 2024, was also let go. Jack Smith’s nine-year tenure ended after 191 league appearances, 86 goals, and 80 assists, while Jakub Adamczyk joined Korona Kielce. These departures hurt, but we’ve brought in quality to push for promotion.

In goal, we’ve signed Omar Daley on a free transfer from Aberystwyth Town in the Cymru Premier, where he made 119 appearances. His experience and agility make him our new No. 1, and I’m excited to see him command the box. Craig Daly, with 128 appearances for us since 2030, stays on a non-contract deal as a reliable back-up, his heroics in last season’s 0-0 draw against Consett still fresh in memory.

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At right-back, Beineon Creamer joins from Barrow, bringing pace and attacking flair, while Dean Culbert enters his 8th season with us, his 191 appearances providing leadership. Billy Warwick, who made 31 league appearances last season, remains our starting left-back, with Latvian Artūrs Lemkins, signed from Keighley United, adding competition. At centre-back, Espen Jenssen is our anchor, joined by Jonathyn Lovegreen from Sunderland, Mark Grech from Hebburn Town, and Rubin Balsom from The New Saints. This new backline must gel quickly to match last season’s defensive solidity.

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Right midfield sees Wayne Easton, who scored 21 goals and provided 18 assists in 44 games last season, as our star man. Joe Starbuck, 31, joins from Redcar Athletic with experience at Curzon Ashton, Barrow, Morecambe, and Scunthorpe United, offering versatility. On the left, Conner Burrows battles 26-year-old Jacob Lloyd, signed from Llandudno in the Cymru North, for the starting spot. In central midfield, Ren Yamada, Matt Gordon, and Dieudonné Belinga provide continuity, with 18-year-old Iain Shaw, a title-winner with Consett on loan from Carlisle United, adding youthful energy.

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Up top, Ryan Tioffo and Zoltán Németh remain our lethal duo, their 33 goals last season driving our play-off push. Ryan Hassan stays as a dynamic option, while Pharrel Waite, a 28-year-old striker from Hebburn Town with 10 goals in 37 games last season, adds depth and physicality.

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Bransay Athletic’s FA Cup aspirations were brutally extinguished in a humiliating 6-0 defeat to National League North side Chester at Forge Road in the Second Qualifying Round this afternoon.

After reaching the Fifth Round in 2032/33 and the Second Round in 2033/34, this early exit is a bitter pill for the Irons, who were outclassed by a rampant Chester side. Danny Ormerod, Ian Taylor, Luke Bell and Emmaisa Nzondo scored in a one-sided thrashing that left Bransay’s fans stunned and their cup dreams in tatters.

Having navigated past Stocksbridge Park Steels, Bradley and Cleethorpes Town in earlier rounds, Bransay entered the match with hopes of another memorable FA Cup run. However, Chester, two divisions above in the National League North, exposed the gulf in class from the outset.

In the 23rd minute, Danny Ormerod opened the scoring, latching onto a precise through ball from midfield and slotting past Omar Daley into the bottom left corner. Bransay battled to stay in the game, with Ryan Tioffo and Zoltán Németh testing Chester’s defence, but the hosts lacked their usual spark.

The floodgates opened in the second half. In the 70th minute, Ian Taylor doubled Chester’s lead, heading in a whipped cross from the right at the near post, where Daley was caught out of position. Two minutes later, in the 72nd, Luke Bell made it 3-0, capitalising on a defensive mix-up between Espen Jenssen and Beineon Creamer to rifle a shot into the top right corner. Bell struck again in the 80th minute, curling a stunning 25-yard effort into the far left corner, leaving Daley rooted. Taylor added his second in the 89th minute, tapping in a low cross from the left after Bransay’s defence was carved open. The rout was completed in the 91st minute when Emmaisa Nzondo pounced on a loose ball in the box, smashing it into the roof of the net.

Manager Callum Baird was crestfallen but candid post-match. “It’s a tough one to take,” Baird said. “We’ve had magical FA Cup runs the last two seasons, so to go out like this at home hurts. Chester were clinical, and we were nowhere near our best. Ormerod, Taylor, Bell - they punished every mistake. Our fans deserved better, but we’ll learn from this and focus on the league and Integro Cup.”

The defeat compounds a disappointing week for Bransay, who were also knocked out of the FA Trophy First Qualifying Round on 9th September, losing 3-0 to Shildon at Forge Road. With both major cup competitions now over, the Integro League Cup, which begins in October, is Bransay’s only remaining chance for cup silverware this season. Last season’s run to the Fourth Round of the Integro Cup offers hope, but Baird will need to rally his squad quickly.

In the league, Bransay sit 7th with 13 points after a solid start to their second NPL Division One East campaign. However, the 6-0 drubbing raises questions about their defensive solidity, with new signings Jonathyn Lovegreen, Mark Grech and Rubin Balsom yet to fully gel alongside Jenssen. Omar Daley, signed from Aberystwyth Town, faces scrutiny after a tough outing, though Baird remains confident in his new No. 1.

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As I reflect on August and September 2034, it’s been a decent start to our second season in the Northern Premier League Division One East. We’ve played 14 matches across all competitions, securing 8 wins, 2 draws and 4 losses, placing us 6th in the league with 17 points.

Our record-breaking 7-0 thrashing of Morpeth Town was a high, but a humiliating 6-0 FA Cup defeat to Chester and a 3-0 FA Trophy loss to Shildon were low points, leaving the Integro League Cup as our only remaining cup competition.

We opened the season on 5th August with a 4-0 win over Stocksbridge Park Steels at Forge Road in the FA Cup Extra Preliminary Round. Ryan Tioffo struck in the 15th minute, latching onto a long ball over the top from goalkeeper Omar Daley to slot into the bottom right. Conner Burrows doubled the lead in the 52nd, tapping in Iain Shaw’s low cross and Shaw assisted Matt Gordon’s curling top-left strike in the 59th. Shaw capped his debut with a goal in the 76th, heading in Wayne Easton’s pinpoint cross.

On 12th August, we beat Cleethorpes Town 3-0 at Clee Road. Zoltán Németh scored in the 4th minute, rifling in Gordon’s through ball. Burrows made it 2-0 in the 11th, slotting in Shaw’s cutback and Jonathyn Lovegreen headed in Jacob Lloyd’s corner in the 85th to seal a commanding win.

On 16th August, we drew 2-2 with Wakefield at Forge Road. Gordon converted a penalty in the 49th minute after a handball, but Jamie Miley equalised in the 62nd, heading in Jordan Santangelo’s cross. Easton restored our lead in the 67th, curling into the top right from the edge, but James Matthews snatched a point for Wakefield in the 96th, tapping in a rebound off the post.

We continued our FA Cup run on 19th August, beating Bradley 3-0 at Forge Road in the Preliminary Round. Gordon scored in the 33rd, volleying in Németh’s lofted pass. Espen Jenssen headed in Gordon’s corner in the 54th and Gordon tapped in Easton’s low cross in the 84th to secure progression.

On 26th August, we demolished Morpeth Town 7-0 at Forge Road, our biggest-ever win. Németh opened the scoring in the 3rd minute, heading in Easton’s cross. Billy Warwick made it 2-0 in the 10th, slotting in Dean Culbert’s through ball. Németh scored again in the 16th, tapping in Burrows’ low cross and completed his hat-trick in the 24th, curling in Gordon’s pass. Easton struck in the 45th, volleying Németh’s cutback and Gordon’s penalty in the 48th made it 6-0. Warwick rounded it off in the 51st, heading in Easton’s corner.

On 30th August, we won 4-0 at Washington’s Eppleton Colliery Welfare Ground. Gordon scored in the 17th minute, rifling a 20-yard shot into the top left. Easton made it 2-0 in the 28th, tapping in Culbert’s low cross. Gordon’s penalty in the 45+3rd minute and Warwick’s header from Culbert’s cross in the 50th completed a dominant display.

September started with a 3-2 win over Cleethorpes Town at Forge Road in the FA Cup First Qualifying Round on 2nd September. Burrows scored in the 3rd minute, slotting in a loose ball after a defensive error. Németh made it 2-0 in the 40th, heading in Dieudonné Belinga’s cross. Matthew Shields pulled one back in the 65th, tapping in Gary Fry’s pass, but Belinga restored our lead in the 83rd, curling in Easton’s through ball. Shields scored again in the 85th from Femi Godswill’s assist, but we held on.

On 6th September, we lost 4-2 to Redcar Athletic at Green Lane. Tioffo scored in the 1st minute, heading in Warwick’s cross, but Jordan Thomas equalised in the 45th, slotting in a loose ball. Dan Myers put Redcar ahead in the 55th from Jon Smith’s pass, Ben Beechey made it 3-1 in the 75th from Danny Ritchie’s assist and Ritchie scored in the 80th from Beechey’s cross. Gordon’s consolation in the 88th, tapping in Németh’s pass, was too late.

Our FA Trophy campaign ended early on 9th September with a 3-0 loss to Shildon at Forge Road in the First Qualifying Round. Ville Jarvinen-Kautto scored in the 9th minute, heading in Colm Kelleher’s cross. Roman Crellin made it 2-0 in the 21st, slotting in Jake Hope’s through ball and Melvin Aurélian sealed it in the 26th, curling in Charlie Sam’s pass.

On 13th September, we edged Barton Town 3-2 at Marsh Lane. Tioffo scored in the 9th minute, tapping in Burrows’ low cross. Gordon’s penalty in the 52nd made it 2-0 and Mark Grech headed in Gordon’s corner in the 81st. Andy Stockbridge pulled one back in the 85th from Emmanuel Bradley’s pass and Connor Bailey’s header from Deegan Mangham’s cross in the 89th made it tense, but we held firm.

On 16th September, we suffered a 6-0 humiliation against Chester at Forge Road in the FA Cup Second Qualifying Round. Danny Ormerod opened the scoring in the 23rd minute, slotting past Daley after a through ball. Ian Taylor headed in a near-post cross in the 70th, Luke Bell rifled a top-right shot in the 72nd and curled a 25-yard effort in the 80th, Taylor tapped in a low cross in the 89th and Emmaisa Nzondo smashed in a loose ball in the 91st.

On 20th September, we drew 1-1 with Crook Town at Forge Road. Németh scored in the 59th minute, curling in Jacob Lloyd’s through ball, but Tom Elves equalised in the 87th, heading in Hugo Silva’s cross.

On 27th September, we lost 1-0 to Marske United at Forge Road, with Trent Chapman scoring the winner in the 6th minute, tapping in Max Storey’s low cross.

We closed September with a 2-1 win over Whitby Town at Turnbull Ground on 30th September. Belinga scored a penalty in the 49th minute after a foul. Corey Joyce equalised in the 78th, slotting in a loose ball, but Pharrel Waite won it in the 84th, latching onto Daley’s long ball over the top to fire into the bottom left.

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The league table has Marske United leading with 23 points, followed by Washington on 22, Redcar Athletic and Barton Town on 20 each and Shildon on 18 in the play-off spots.

We’re 6th with 17 points, tied with Wakefield, one point off 5th. Polonia Yorkshire, Emley, Billingham Town and West Auckland Town follow. Hebburn Town, Crook Town, Whitby Town and Bishop Auckland share 11 points.

Morpeth Town and Dunston have 7 points, with Billingham Synthonia, Worksop Town and Cleethorpes Town in the relegation zone with 6 each.

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Bransay Athletic are proud to unveil its new club logo, a bold reimagining of the Isle of Bransay’s historic coat of arms, marking a return to the club’s deepest roots as we enter our 149th year.

Since our founding in 1886, Bransay Athletic has been the heartbeat of our island community, embodying the industrial grit, footballing passion and unyielding spirit of the “Irons.”

From 1886 to 2011, our badge was an artistic impression of the island’s coat of arms, a symbol of our heritage.

In 2011, following our 125th anniversary, we adopted a modern circular logo featuring an anvil and hammer, framed by a dark grey outer ring and a crimson red inner ring with crimson red, dark grey and white outlines.

The change reflected a desire to modernise and honour our industrial identity while projecting ambition during a period of growth. However, as we stand on the cusp of a new era - having risen from the North Northumberland League to the Northern Premier League Division One East and with a play-off final appearance in 2033/34 - the time is right to reconnect with our storied past.

Today, we proudly introduce a remake of the Isle of Bransay’s coat of arms, encased in a circular logo that blends tradition with our relentless drive for glory.

The new logo is a heraldic shield, slightly elongated to convey strength and stability, framed by a bold black border symbolising the club’s resilience through 149 years of triumphs and trials. The shield is divided into four quarters, each telling a part of Bransay’s story.

The top left, set against a crimson red background, features a stylised white anvil with a black-and-white football above it, representing our Irons nickname and the industrial forge heritage that defines our island’s hard-working ethos.

The top right, on a white background, showcases a rampant crimson red lion clutching a torch, embodying the courage and ferocity of our fanbase, whose passion lights our path.

The bottom left, also white, displays crimson red and dark grey stripes, mirroring the iconic kit worn by heroes like Einar Skjoldson and Jack Thompson.

The bottom right, in crimson red, depicts a green pasture with a white river flowing at its base, symbolising the Bransay landscape and the community’s lifeblood that unites us.

At the shield’s heart, a smaller black inescutcheon bears the year “1886” in bold white, grounding the design in our founding moment.

Above the shield, a crest features a steel-grey forge hammer crossed with a quill, honouring manager leadership that has penned Bransay’s rise to NPL East contenders. Crimson red and white ribbons drape around the crest, fluttering to evoke the electric atmosphere at Forge Road.

Below, a crimson red scroll with white lettering carries the motto “Ferrum et Ignis” (Iron and Fire), encapsulating our identity as the Irons, forged in the heat of competition, from FA Cup upsets against Shrewsbury Town to last season’s play-off push. The entire design is encased in a circular frame, retaining the modern shape of the 2011 logo but infused with the heraldic weight of our island’s coat of arms, blending tradition with ambition.

Club chairman Alex Lee spoke with pride about the rebrand: “This new logo is a celebration of who we are - Bransay Athletic, the heart of our island. For 125 years, our coat of arms told the story of our industrial roots and community spirit.

“The 2011 logo served us well, modernising our image as we climbed the leagues, but now, as we chase the NPL East title and dream of the Premier Division, it’s time to return to our heritage. This design honours our past, from 1886 to our FA Cup runs, while looking forward to a future of glory. Our fans deserve a badge that reflects their passion and our shared journey.”

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It’s been a whirlwind couple of months for us. We’ve played 11 matches across the Northern Premier League Division One East and the Integro League Cup, with 5 wins, 4 draws, and 2 losses. Sitting 5th in the league with 33 points after 17 games, we’re firmly in the play-off hunt, but there’s work to do to keep pace with the leaders.

We kicked off October on the 3rd at Bedford Terrace, beating Billingham Town 3-1. Straight from kick-off, Joe Starbuck surged down the right and crossed for Zoltán Németh to volley home in the first minute. In the 37th, Conner Burrows broke free on the left and squared for Billy Warwick to tap in at the back post. Billingham pulled one back in the 62nd when Jack Leahy headed in Ryan Swailes’ cross, but we sealed it in the 73rd as Starbuck set up Burrows to rifle into the top corner.

On the 10th, we hosted Appley Bridge at Forge Road in the Integro League Cup First Round, scraping through 5-4 on penalties after a 1-1 draw. Appley took the lead in the 50th when Kiban Rai’s through ball found Jason Bennett to slot past Omar Daley. Deep into extra time, Wayne Easton’s curling cross in the 95th was headed in by Ryan Hassan to force penalties. Espen Jenssen held his nerve to score the decisive spot-kick.

On the 14th, we drew 1-1 with Polonia Yorkshire at Forge Road. Myles Nadat put them ahead in the 73rd, latching onto Peter Barr’s low cross, but Matt Gordon equalised two minutes later, calmly converting a penalty after a handball in the box.

We travelled to Dean Street on the 21st, beating Shildon 3-1. In the 40th, Pharrel Waite’s flick-on found Németh to curl into the bottom corner. Iain Shaw doubled our lead in the 61st, heading in Jenssen’s lofted pass, and Waite got on the scoresheet in the 74th, tapping in Németh’s cutback. Fabian Reynolds pulled one back for Shildon in the 79th, but we held firm.

On the 28th, we drew 3-3 with Emley AFC at Forge Road in a frantic clash. Wayne Easton opened the scoring in the 4th, rifling a 20-yard shot into the top left. Emley equalised in the 16th when Rafferty Hyland’s cross was headed in by Ben Hamilton, but we regained the lead a minute later as Ryan Tioffo set up Németh to slot home. In first-half stoppage time, Mervyn Hunter’s pass found Robbie Reynolds to make it 2-2. Easton restored our lead in the 76th, volleying in Gordon’s pass, but Leighton Robles snatched a point for Emley in the 84th, nodding in Hyland’s free-kick.

November started with a 2-1 win over Billingham Synthonia at Forge Road on the 4th. In the 17th, Jahva Ollivierre turned a Warwick cross into his own net. Five minutes later, Warwick’s through ball found Tioffo to fire into the bottom right. Jorge Perritt pulled one back in the 64th, slotting in Justin Obikwu’s pass, but we saw it out.

On the 7th, we edged Staffordshire Victoria 5-4 on penalties in the Integro League Cup Second Round at their ground after a 1-1 draw. Gordon put us ahead in the 18th, tapping in Németh’s low cross, but Chris Chambers equalised in the 60th, heading in Neemo Axtell’s delivery. Ren Yamada stepped up to score the winning penalty.

On the 11th, we drew 3-3 with Worksop Town at Sandy Lane. Sammy Townley’s own goal in the 14th gave us the lead, and Németh made it 2-0 in the 30th, heading in Dean Culbert’s cross. Harry Whitten pulled one back in the 34th, slotting in Johnny Scanlon’s pass. Németh struck again in the 59th, curling in Gordon’s through ball, but Scanlon equalised in the 79th, tapping in Sam Casey’s cross. Gavin McKenzie snatched a point for Worksop in the 83rd, heading in Jude Collins’ delivery.

On the 18th, we drew 2-2 with West Auckland Town at Forge Road. Gordon put us ahead in the 33rd, volleying in Culbert’s cross, but Greig Anderson equalised in the 41st. David Williams put West Auckland ahead in the 54th, slotting in Sam Gillies’ pass, but Dieudonné Belinga rescued a point in the 80th, heading in Easton’s cross.

On the 25th, we thrashed Bishop Auckland 5-2 at Heritage Park. Regan Griffiths gave them the lead with a 37th-minute penalty, but Easton equalised in the 40th, slotting in Burrows’ cross. Németh put us ahead in the 52nd, heading in Easton’s delivery, and Warwick made it 3-1 in the 59th, tapping in Tioffo’s pass. Németh struck again in the 85th, volleying in Burrows’ cross, and Yamada sealed it in the 91st, curling in Burrows’ pass. Farrend Grimes pulled one back in the 95th, heading in Matthew Bray’s cross.

We closed November with a 2-1 loss to Morpeth Town at Craik Park in the Integro League Cup Third Round on the 28th. Bartosz Walczak scored a penalty in the 24th, but Easton equalised in the 32nd, tapping in Németh’s cutback. Walczak’s second penalty in the 86th ended our cup run.

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The league table sees Marske leading with 37 points, two ahead of Emley AFC on 35. Barton Town and Washington are on 34 each, and we’re 5th with 33.

Polonia Yorkshire have 30 in 6th, followed by Wakefield AFC on 29. Shildon and Redcar Athletic have 26 and 25, while Crook Town, Bishop Auckland, West Auckland Town and Billingham Town sit midtable on 21, 20, 19, and 18.

Cleethorpes Town have 16, just above the relegation zone, where Billingham Synthonia, Hebburn Town, and Dunston have 15 each. Whitby Town are on 14, with Worksop Town and Morpeth Town tied on 13 at the bottom.

With 21 games left, we’re in a strong position, but consistency will be key.

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It’s a crisp December morning in 2034, and I’m sitting in my office at Forge Road, the faint hum of the radiator battling the chill seeping through the window. I’ve just finished a cup of tea when Craig Daly knocks on the door.

At 24, he’s still got that boyish look, but there’s a weight in his eyes today. He’s been with Bransay Athletic since January 2031, joining us from Woodkirk Valley when we were scrapping in the NFA Premier Division. Back then, Roscoe Green had just left for Barnoldswick Town and Craig stepped into the fire, helping us win that title. Now, though, things are different and I know why he’s here.

“Craig, mate, come in. Grab a seat,” I say, gesturing to the chair across my desk. He nods, sits down, and fiddles with the sleeve of his training top. I can tell he’s nervous, so I try to ease into it. “How’s everything going? Training alright?”

He exhales, leaning forward. “Training’s fine, boss, but… look, I need to be straight with you. I’m not playing. Haven’t played a single minute this season. I can’t just sit on the bench, warming gloves for Omar. I’m 24. I need games.”

I nod, letting him get it out. I knew this was coming. When we signed Omar from Aberystwyth Town this summer, a 26-year-old with 119 appearances in the Cymru Premier, it was always going to shift things.

Craig’s been a rock for us - 15 games in that half-season in 2031, conceding 20 with 2 clean sheets to clinch the NFA Premier title; 40 games in 2031/32 in Northern League Division 2, conceding 61 with 11 clean sheets for another title; 35 games in 2032/33 in Division 1, conceding 46 with 6 clean sheets for yet another promotion; and last season, all 38 games in the Northern Premier League Division One East, conceding 58 with 10 clean sheets. But Omar’s experience and agility have made him our No. 1 this season and Craig’s non-contract deal was a clear signal he’d be back-up. Still, hearing him say he wants out stings.

“Craig, I hear you,” I start, leaning back in my chair. “You’ve been brilliant for us. A proper hero. Those saves against Consett last year, the title runs - you’re part of our story. But you knew Omar was coming in, and we needed that experience for this level. You’re still vital, though. What if Omar gets injured? Or suspended? We need you ready.”

He shakes his head, a bit sharper than I expect. “Callum, I get it. Omar’s great and I don’t begrudge him the spot. But I’m not here to wait for him to twist an ankle. I’m a goalkeeper, not a spectator. I signed the non-contract because I thought I could handle it, maybe fight for my place, but I’m not even close. I need to play, not watch from the dugout.”

I feel a knot in my stomach. Losing Craig would leave us thin. Omar’s been solid, but injuries happen and finding another keeper of Craig’s quality on short notice won’t be easy. “Mate, you’re only 24. You’ve got years ahead. Stay with us, keep training and you’ll get chances. We’re in the play-off hunt, maybe even a shot at the title. You walk away now, you might miss out on something special.”

He looks at me, eyes narrowing. “That’s the thing, Callum. I don’t want to be the guy who ‘might’ get a game. I’ve given everything for this club - four titles, nearly 170 games. But I’m not a kid anymore. I need to be somewhere I’m trusted to start, not just a safety net.” His voice cracks a bit and I can tell this isn’t easy for him. “I love Bransay, you know that. But I’m wasting my career here.”

I sigh, running a hand through my hair. He’s right, and I hate it. I want to argue, tell him he’s being hasty, that he’s part of the family. But I know that look. It’s the same one I saw in Roscoe Green before he left. Craig’s made up his mind and keeping him here against his will won’t do anyone any good. “Alright, Craig,” I say quietly. “What are you thinking? A transfer in January, or…?”

He pauses, then meets my gaze. “I think we should part ways now. A clean break. I’m on a non-contract, so it’s straightforward. I’ve had a couple of clubs sniffing around - nothing solid, but I need to be free to talk to them and commit properly.”

My instinct is to push back, but I bite my tongue. He’s been loyal and he deserves to go on his terms. “You’re sure?” I ask, one last try. He nods, firm but not cold. I lean forward, resting my elbows on the desk. “Okay. Let’s do it your way. We’ll sort the paperwork, terminate the contract amicably. But Craig, you’re always welcome back at Forge Road. Fans love you, I love you and those clean sheets won us titles. You’re one of us, always will be.”

He gives a small smile, the tension easing a bit. “Cheers, Callum. Means a lot. I’ll never forget this place - the fans, the lads, those mad promotion nights. But I’ve got to do what’s right for me.”

We stand, and I shake his hand, clapping him on the shoulder. “Good luck, mate. Wherever you end up, you’ll smash it. Just don’t save a penalty against us, yeah?” He laughs, and for a moment, it feels like old times.

As he leaves, I sit back down, staring at the empty chair. Craig Daly’s been with us through the grind, from the Northern Football Alliance to the Northern Premier League. Now he’s off, and I’ve got to find a way to replace him. But that’s for tomorrow. Today, I’m just grateful for what he gave Bransay - and hoping he finds the games he deserves.

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Bransay Athletic delivered a statement performance today, defeating Cleethorpes Town 3-1 at Forge Road to claim first place in the Northern Premier League Division One East for the first time this season.

The victory allowed Bransay to leapfrog Marske United, who stumbled in a 3-2 defeat away to Whitby Town, ending their hold on the top spot since August. The result marks a pivotal moment in Bransay’s remarkable journey.

The match began with both sides probing cautiously, Bransay sticking to their tried-and-tested 4-4-2 formation under manager Callum Baird. Cleethorpes, fighting to climb away from the relegation zone, pressed early but found Bransay’s backline, led by Espen Jenssen, in resolute form.

The first half ended goalless, with Omar Daley’s sharp reflexes denying a low drive from Cleethorpes’ Ryan Stirk. However, Bransay emerged from the break with renewed purpose, and it took just two minutes to break the deadlock. A corner was cleared only as far as Wayne Easton on the left wing, whose pinpoint cross found Pharrel Waite leaping at the far post to head home with authority.

Bransay’s momentum grew and in the 62nd minute, Waite struck again to double the lead. Matt Gordon lofted a ball into the box, which Cleethorpes’ defender Evans could only glance away to Easton on the right flank. The winger, in scintillating form, flicked the ball up for Waite, who arrived late in the box to unleash a fierce volley into the bottom left corner, leaving goalkeeper Jasper Briggs rooted.

Cleethorpes responded in the 73rd minute when Stirk converted a penalty down the middle after Jenssen’s foul on a forward in the box, giving the visitors a lifeline. But Bransay refused to falter. In the 88th minute, Iain Shaw surged forward and delivered a precise cross, met by Conner Burrows’ header from mere centimetres out at the far post, sparking wild celebrations among the 217 fans in attendance.

Elsewhere, Marske United’s loss at Whitby Town proved decisive. Whitby, battling to escape the lower reaches of the table, took the lead twice, only for Marske to equalise on both occasions. However, Ben Morgan’s 83rd-minute winner secured a vital 3-2 victory for the hosts, lifting them to 15th and handing Bransay the chance to take pole position. The defeat marked Marske’s first slip from the summit since August, a testament to Bransay’s relentless consistency with five wins out of five now.

With this victory, Bransay Athletic now lead the Northern Premier League Division One East with 45 points and an impressive goal difference of 33, one point clear of Marske United on 44. Key to the win was the attacking prowess of Waite, whose brace showcased his growing importance with 6 goals in his last 3 games and the creative spark of Easton, whose wing play tormented Cleethorpes throughout. The squad’s depth, with contributions from Shaw and Burrows, highlights the balance Baird has instilled in this side.

As the season heads into the second half, Bransay’s position at the top reflects their ambition to secure promotion to the Northern Premier League Premier Division. The road ahead remains challenging, with tightly packed rivals like Polonia Yorkshire, Barton Town and Washington hot on their heels.

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Bransay Athletic have confirmed the departure of left-back Billy Warwick to Bedford Town for a club-record transfer fee of £12,500.

The 22-year-old, who made 76 appearances across all competitions for Bransay, scoring 8 goals and providing 10 assists, moves to the Spartan South Midlands Premier League, a tier below the Northern Premier League East.

Bedford’s ability to finance the deal stems from their recent takeover by a consortium led by Scott Carr in July 2034, which has bolstered their financial position following a February administration. Warwick’s exit marks the end of a significant chapter for the Isle of Bransay club, where his attacking flair and defensive grit made him a fan favourite at Forge Road.

Warwick’s contributions, including 31 league appearances last season, were instrumental in Bransay’s play-off push. His departure leaves a gap at left-back, but the club have moved swiftly to address this by signing 32-year-old Luke Daley on a free transfer following his release from Whitley Bay. Daley, who recorded 40 appearances and 3 assists for Whitley Bay last season, brings a wealth of experience.

A product of Huddersfield Town’s academy, Daley had loan spells at Gateshead and Alfreton Town in 2022/23 and 2023/24, making 36 appearances combined. Released by Huddersfield in 2026, he joined Macclesfield, where he amassed 136 appearances, scoring 4 goals and providing 9 assists over three seasons until 2029. Daley then spent four years at Appley Bridge, making 80 appearances, before moving to Whitley Bay in 2033. His versatility and seasoned presence will provide stability and competition for the left-back role alongside Artūrs Lemžins.

In addition to Daley’s arrival, Bransay have bolstered their goalkeeping options by signing Jaydan Howcroft on a free transfer from Shildon. The young goalkeeper, who spent last season on loan at Newark Town, conceded 5 goals in 7 appearances, keeping 2 clean sheets. Prior to Shildon, Howcroft was a regular starter for Billingham Town in 2032/33, making 40 appearances, conceding 59 goals and securing 8 clean sheets. A graduate of York City’s academy, he made one substitute appearance in 2031/32, keeping a clean sheet.

Howcroft steps in as back-up to Omar Daley following the mutual termination of Craig Daly’s contract earlier this season. Interestingly, Craig Daly is now reportedly in talks with Shildon to potentially replace Howcroft at the club, creating a curious swap of sorts.

The transfer activity reflects Bransay’s ambition to maintain their position at the top of the Northern Premier League East, where they currently lead with 45 points. The £12,500 from Warwick’s transfer provides manager Callum Baird with funds to further strengthen the squad, while the signings of Luke Daley and Jaydan Howcroft ensure depth and experience.

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Looking back on December and January, it’s been a good period for Bransay Athletic. Eight matches, six wins, one draw, and one loss have kept us atop the Northern Premier League Division One East, despite a hiccup that ended our 14-game unbeaten run. With 52 points after 25 games, we’re leading the pack, but Washington, Barton Town and Marske United are still breathing down our necks.

December started with a bang on the 2nd, as we demolished Hebburn Town 6-1 at Forge Road. In the 4th minute, Matt Gordon slotted a penalty into the bottom right after a clumsy foul on Ryan Tioffo. Joe Starbuck made it 2-0 in the 11th, latching onto Tioffo’s through ball to fire into the top corner. Hebburn hit back in the 13th when Connor Firth tapped in Jordan Cromack’s low cross, but we regained control after the break. In the 47th, Conner Burrows’ curling cross found Starbuck to head in at the far post. Gordon struck again in the 70th, volleying Starbuck’s chipped pass into the roof of the net. Tioffo got in on the act in the 76th, slotting in a low ball from Burrows, and Dieudonné Belinga sealed it in the 90th with a penalty rifled down the middle.

On the 9th, we thrashed Dunston 4-1 at Forge Road. Pharrel Waite was unstoppable, opening the scoring in the 6th minute by heading in Zoltán Németh’s pinpoint cross. In the 11th, Billy Warwick’s deep cross was met by Waite’s diving header. Waite completed his hat-trick in the 16th, tapping in Németh’s cutback after a swift counter. Adam Gill pulled one back for Dunston in the 33rd, slotting in Jordan Lamb’s pass, but Waite wasn’t done, nodding in Wayne Easton’s lofted cross in the 55th for his fourth.

On the 16th, we secured a 2-0 win at Wakefield AFC’s Belle Vue Stadium. Iain Shaw broke the deadlock in the 33rd minute, curling a low shot into the bottom left after Warwick’s through ball. In the 54th, Burrows’ low cross found Németh, who rifled a first-time shot into the top right.

On the 23rd, we beat Cleethorpes Town 3-1 at Forge Road, a result that put us top. In the 47th minute, Easton’s left-wing cross was headed in by Waite at the far post. Waite struck again in the 62nd, volleying Easton’s flicked-on ball into the bottom left after a half-cleared corner. Ryan Stirk pulled one back with a penalty in the 73rd, but Burrows sealed it in the 88th, heading in Shaw’s precise cross from close range.

We closed December on the 30th with a 4-1 win over Redcar Athletic at Forge Road. Tioffo opened the scoring in the 10th minute, tapping in Waite’s low cross. Burrows made it 2-0 in the 19th, rifling a 20-yard shot into the top left after a loose ball. Jon Smith replied for Redcar in the 36th, heading in Jacob Bacon’s cross, but Tioffo restored the two-goal lead in stoppage time, slotting in Burrows’ cross. Waite wrapped it up in the 90th, curling in Tioffo’s through ball.

January brought our first stumble, a 2-1 loss to Morpeth Town at Craik Park on the 13th, ending our 14-game unbeaten streak. James Dixon put Morpeth ahead in the 18th, slotting in Bartosz Walczak’s pass. Luke Daley’s cross found Burrows to equalise in the 42nd with a low drive, but Bobby Pointon’s header from Joe Lewis-Evans’ cross in the 47th secured the win for Morpeth.

On the 20th, we drew 1-1 with Washington at Forge Road. Alex Thackeray gave them the lead in the 68th, tapping in Jayden Fevrier’s low cross, but Espen Jenssen rescued a point in the 94th minute, heading in Luke Daley’s corner at the back post.

We bounced back on the 27th, thrashing Crook Town 4-1 at Sir Tom Cowie Millfield. Németh opened the scoring in the 7th minute, heading in Tioffo’s cross. Tioffo scored in the 53rd, volleying in Daley’s deep cross. Németh struck again in the 60th, nodding in Dean Culbert’s delivery, and completed his hat-trick in the 69th, heading in another Culbert cross. Harrison Day pulled one back for Crook in the 66th, slotting in Perry Green’s pass, but we were in control.

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The league table sees us leading with 52 points, one ahead of Washington on 51. Barton Town hold 3rd with 49, while Marske United, with just one win in their last five, sit 4th on 48. Emley AFC complete the play-off spots with 46 points.

Polonia Yorkshire and Shildon are close behind on 45 points each, followed by Redcar Athletic and Wakefield AFC on 40.

Bishop Auckland have 35 in 10th, with Crook Town on 31, West Auckland Town on 29, and Billingham Synthonia and Whitby Town tied on 26. Dunston are 15th with 26, three points clear of the relegation zone, where Morpeth Town have 24, Billingham Town 23, Cleethorpes Town 19, and Worksop Town and Hebburn Town sit bottom with 16 each.

With 13 games left, the title race is tight, and we’ll need to stay sharp to hold off Washington and the chasing pack.

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It’s a grey February morning in 2035 and I’m sitting in my office at Forge Road, the wind rattling the window behind me. The radiator’s doing its best, but there’s a chill in the air that matches the mood.

Zoltán Németh, our all-time top goalscorer, is across from me, his agent Mátyás Somodi beside him, both looking deadly serious. They’re here to talk about a new deal, but I already know this isn’t going to be straightforward. Word’s reached me that Zoltán’s agreed personal terms with Hódmezővásárhelyi, a third-tier Hungarian side in the Nemzeti Bajnokság III. My stomach’s in knots, but I keep my face steady as they settle in.

“Callum, let’s not waste time,” Somodi starts, his accent sharp and his tone all business. He leans forward, hands clasped on my desk like he owns the place. “Zoltán has an offer from Hódmezővásárhelyi. They’re ready to take him home to Hungary, give him a fresh start. But he’s willing to stay if Bransay can meet his value. We’re asking for £1,000 per appearance. Simple as that. You agree, he stays. You don’t, he signs with Hódmezővásárhelyi on 1st July.”

I feel my jaw tighten. £1,000 per appearance? For a club like Bransay, scraping by in the Northern Premier League Division One East, that’s not just steep - it’s outright ludicrous. Our entire wage budget would collapse under that kind of demand.

I glance at Zoltán, hoping to catch his eye, but he’s staring at the floor, letting Somodi do the talking. I take a breath, trying to keep this civil. “Mátyás, you know our situation. We’re a small club, punching above our weight. That kind of money’s beyond us. We’re top of the league, sure, but we’re not bankrolled. Zoltán’s a favourite here and we want him to stay, but those terms are impossible.”

Somodi doesn’t blink. “Then Zoltán walks. Hódmezővásárhelyi can offer him a future, a return to his roots. He’s 102 league goals for you, Callum. 125 in all competitions, 199 appearances, 48 assists. He’s carried this club. If you can’t pay what he’s worth, someone else will.”

I feel a flash of anger but swallow it. He’s not wrong about Zoltán’s numbers - 102 league goals, 35 assists in 150 games, 125 goals and 48 assists across 199 in all competitions. The man’s a machine, a cornerstone of our rise to where we are now. His 33 goals last season, alongside Tioffo, got us to the play-offs. His hat-trick against Crook Town last month is still being talked about in the pub. But this isn’t about numbers; it’s about loyalty, and I’m gutted he’s even considering a move to a Hungarian third-tier side.

“Zoltán,” I say, turning to him directly, ignoring Somodi for a moment. “Mate, look at what we’ve built here. You’re our top scorer, our talisman. Fans chant your name, my daughter’s got your shirt on her wall. You’ve got 125 goals for us - nobody’s ever come close to that. We’re top of the league, a shot at promotion. Why throw that away for a third-tier club? Stay with us. We’ll fight for you, give you a deal we can afford, keep you as our No. 9. You’re part of Bransay’s soul.”

Zoltán shifts in his seat, meeting my eyes for the first time. There’s a flicker of something - regret, maybe - but he doesn’t speak. Somodi cuts in before he can. “Sentiment doesn’t pay bills, Callum. Zoltán’s given you everything. Now he needs security, a fair deal. £1,000 per appearance, or he’s gone. That’s the offer.”

I lean back, my hands gripping the arms of my chair. I don’t need the board to tell me we can’t do this. Our budget’s stretched as it is with the early FA Cup exit this year and we’ve just lost Billy Warwick’s £12,500 transfer fee to reinvest. Paying £1,000 to Zoltán would mean gutting the squad or risking financial ruin. It’s not just a no - it’s an absurd demand for a club at our level. But losing him… that’s 125 goals walking out the door, and we’re not even halfway through a title-chasing season. I try one last time, speaking to Zoltán, not the agent.

“Zoltán, you know I’d move heaven and earth to keep you. You’re not just our top scorer - you’re the heart of this team. Those goals against Consett, the hat-tricks, the nights we celebrated promotions together… that’s what makes Bransay special. Hódmezővásárhelyi can’t offer you that. Stay, and we’ll make history together. I can’t do £1,000 a game, but we’ll find a deal that respects you and keeps the club alive.”

He looks at me, and for a second, I think he’s wavering. But Somodi puts a hand on his arm, shaking his head. “No deal, no future here,” Somodi says flatly. “Zoltán, you know what we discussed. Hódmezővásárhelyi are waiting.”

Zoltán nods slowly, his voice quiet when he finally speaks. “Callum, I love Bransay. You know that. But… I need this. I’m sorry.”

Somodi stands, buttoning his coat. “No offer, then. Zoltán will sign with Hódmezővásárhelyi on 1st July. You will receive confirmation soon.” He extends a hand, but I don’t take it. Zoltán stands too, offering a small nod, and they’re out the door before I can say another word.

I slump back in my chair, staring at the wall. Zoltán Németh, our record goalscorer, the man who’s defined our rise from the NFA Premier Division, is leaving for a third-tier Hungarian side because we can’t pay £1,000 a game. It’s a bitter pill. I’m disappointed, angry even, but I know he’s given us everything - 125 goals, 48 assists, countless memories.

I wanted to fight for him, but not at the cost of the club’s future. Now I’ve got to figure out how to replace him in summer, keep Tioffo firing and hold off Washington without our talisman. It’s a blow, but Bransay’s survived worse. We’ll keep fighting.

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