Bransay Athletic: Land of the Giants

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Bransay Athletic have moved swiftly to address their depleted striker ranks, confirming the double signing of 24-year-old Matt Barlow from Bridlington Town and 30-year-old Matty Bryan from Dunston.

The arrivals come in the wake of Marcel Byrne’s shock departure to Leigh Foundry and Mark Fitzpatrick’s retirement, leaving the NCFL Division One leaders with only Flynn McNaughton and Mason McNeil up front. Both players are expected to debut against Waldridge Park on 24 January 2026 at Forge Road.

Matt Barlow, a versatile forward, joins after a varied career across non-league football. Released by Bridlington Town last season, Barlow began at Trafford in the Northern Premier League Division One West in 2021/22, scoring 4 goals in 51 appearances over two seasons. In 2023/24, he had a brief stint at Clitheroe, netting 1 goal in 5 games, before moving to Bridlington Town in the NPL Division One East, where he scored 3 in 7. Last season, Barlow made 4 appearances for Bridlington before a loan to Heather St. John’s in the Midland League One, where he scored 2 in 13 games. His knack for finding space and tireless work rate should complement Bransay’s direct style.

Matty Bryan, a seasoned campaigner, brings experience from the North East non-league scene. Released by Dunston after the 2024/25 season, Bryan scored 4 goals in 17 appearances in the NPL D1E. The previous season at Dunston was quieter, with no goals in 9 games. Before Dunston, Bryan featured for Stalybridge Celtic and Wythenshawe Town, where his physical presence and aerial ability made him a handful. At 30, Bryan’s know-how could prove vital in the tight six-team NCFL Division One, where Bransay lead with 14 points after an unbeaten start of four wins and two draws.

Manager Callum Baird, who has navigated the recent exits of Moshe Haliva, Dale Mulligan, James Dodd-Thompson and Ardelan Ameen, expressed cautious optimism. “Matt and Matty bring different qualities,” Baird said. “Barlow’s young, hungry and can stretch defences. Bryan’s been around, knows how to grind out results. Losing Marcel was a kick in the teeth and Mark’s retirement didn’t help, but these lads are here to fight for Bransay. They’ll need to hit the ground running.” Baird remained tight-lipped on further signings.

The signings are a statement of intent from Bransay, who sit seven points clear of Waldridge Park. Barlow and Bryan’s challenge will be to fill the void left by Byrne, whose 33 goals in 39 games - 10 in 9 this season - set a high bar. McNaughton, with his pace and McNeil, with his nous, remain the first-choice pairing, but the new arrivals add depth for a gruelling January-to-April slate.

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Bransay Athletic have clinched promotion to the NCFL Premier Division for the 2026/27 season, securing a top-two finish in NCFL Division One with four games to spare.

The confirmation came today as Bedlington United delivered a 3-0 away victory over third-placed Whitley Bay Sporting Club Reserves, ensuring Bransay’s unassailable lead. A day earlier, Bransay’s 3-1 home win over second-placed Waldridge Park, powered by a debut hat-trick from Matty Bryan, had set the stage for this historic milestone - the club’s third consecutive promotion.

Bransay’s triumph over Waldridge Park yesterday at Forge Road was a statement of intent. Matty Bryan, the 30-year-old striker signed from Dunston earlier this month, marked his debut with a clinical treble.

Whitley Bay SC Reserves, sitting third on 12 points, needed a win in their game-in-hand against rock-bottom Bedlington United on 25 January to keep their hopes of catching Bransay alive. A draw or loss would put Bransay 15 points ahead, out of reach with only 12 points left to play for. Bedlington, spurred by pride despite their relegation battle, dismantled Whitley Bay with a commanding performance. Marshall Sterry opened the scoring in the 22nd minute, heading in a Trevor Grainger corner. Asa Anthony doubled the lead on 49 minutes, rifling a 20-yard shot into the top corner. Paul Davies sealed the 3-0 rout in the 77th minute, tapping in after a swift counter. The result extinguished Whitley Bay’s chances, locking in Bransay’s promotion.

With four games remaining, Bransay need only match or better Waldridge Park’s results to secure the NCFL Division One title. The league table sees Bransay on 27 points, Waldridge on 17, Bedlington United, Whitley Bay SC Reserves and Benton Reserves on 12 and Stobswood Welfare Reserves on 10.

The NCFL Premier Division, Bransay’s next frontier, is currently led by North Tyne & Westholme on 25 points, with Whickham Fellside, last season’s Division One champions, close behind on 24.

Manager Callum Baird hailed the achievement while eyeing the title. “This is for Bransay - every fan, every trip,” Baird said. “Matty Bryan’s hat-trick was pure class, but this is a squad effort. We’re not done; we want that trophy.” Baird’s squad, despite losing Marcel Byrne, Moshe Haliva, Dale Mulligan and others this season, has leaned on new signings like Karl Griffiths and Jack Smith, alongside stalwarts Flynn McNaughton and Christian Lynn to maintain an unbeaten run of seven wins and two draws.

Bedlington’s heroics drew praise from Baird. “They did us a massive favour,” he said. “Sterry, Anthony, Davies - they showed up when it mattered.”

Chairman Garry Eccles, in his first season, called the promotion a testament to the island’s spirit. “From North Northumberland League to Premier Division in three years - it’s unreal,” Eccles said. “Our fans make Forge Road a fortress and we’ll carry that into the Premier.”

Bransay’s next challenge comes on 7 February against Whitley Bay SC Reserves at home, where a win could edge them closer to the title. The NCFL Premier Division awaits, a new battleground for an island club that’s defied the odds. For now, the celebrations echo from Forge Road to the cliffs.

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As February dawns, we’re flying high atop NCFL Division One, unbeaten after 11 games with 27 points, four wins and a draw from November to January. With 35 goals scored and a +22 goal difference, we’ve clinched promotion to the NCFL Premier Division thanks to Bedlington United’s 3-0 result over Whitley Bay Sporting Club Reserves on 25 January 2026. Sitting 10 points clear of second-placed Waldridge Park, we need only match their results to seal the title.

Kicking off November, we smashed Whitley Bay SC Reserves 4-1 away at Valley Gardens on 2 November. Despite Marcel Byrne missing a 9th-minute penalty, he redeemed himself with a hat-trick. Jack Smith’s lobbed pass found Byrne’s downward header on 13 minutes, Karl Griffiths teed him up for a tap-in in the 7th minute of stoppage time and Oliver Walters’ cross met Byrne’s head on 51 minutes. Beineon Wolfe’s header for Whitley Bay was overshadowed by Christie Seaton’s own goal off Walters’ shot on 57 minutes.

On 22 November, we edged Benton Reserves 2-1 at Forge Road. Flynn McNaughton set up Jack Smith’s far-post strike on 15 minutes, but Alex Rennie’s header from a Marshall Lovegreen corner levelled it on 50 minutes. Walters’ low 25-yard rocket snuck under James Evans on 77 minutes and Clint McAtee’s 92nd-minute penalty save from Sam Shaw sealed the points.

December’s sole game, a 1-1 draw with Stobswood Welfare Reserves at Forge Road on 13 December, frustrated us. Michael Ajayi’s 68th-minute own goal, deflecting Griffiths’ edge-of-the-box effort, gave us the lead but Steve Robbins’ headed rebound from a free-kick clearance on 85 minutes snatched a point.

2026 started with a 3-0 rout of Bedlington United at Westlea Park on 3 January. Walters found Jack Smith’s run for a 40th-minute opener, Griffiths headed in Smith’s cross on 46 minutes and Conor Crawford’s right-wing surge set up Smith’s close-range finish on 62 minutes.

Our January finale on 24 January saw us crush Waldridge Park 3-1 at Forge Road, a result that paved the way for promotion. Matty Bryan, our new signing, stole the show with a debut hat-trick. Alex Plummer’s stoppage-time pass found Bryan, whose shot hit the near post and rolled in. Bryan converted a 56th-minute penalty and Matt Broughton’s long ball to Plummer led to Bryan’s headed clincher on 86 minutes. Jordon Croudson’s top-corner free-kick on 65 minutes was Waldridge’s lone reply.

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We lead with 27 points, Waldridge Park trail on 17 (+6 GD), Bedlington United have 12 (-2 GD), Whitley Bay SC Reserves 12 (-7 GD), Benton Reserves 12 (-11 GD) and Stobswood Welfare Reserves languish bottom with 10 (-8 GD).

Bryan’s arrival has filled the void left by Byrne’s exit, while Smith and Griffiths shine on the wings.

With four games left, starting with Whitley Bay SC Reserves on 14 February, we’re poised to clinch the championship. The NCFL Premier Division looms, but for now, Forge Road’s creaking stands echo with pride.

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Bransay Athletic have sealed the NCFL Division One title in style, defeating Whitley Bay Sporting Club Reserves 2-0 at Forge Road today to cap an unbeaten season so far.

Karl Griffiths’ brace, powered by pinpoint crosses from Conor Crawford and Jack Smith, secured the title with three games to spare, cementing Bransay’s third consecutive promotion into the NCFL Premier Division.

The match, played at Forge Road, saw Bransay dominate. In the 35th minute, 17-year-old right-back Conor Crawford delivered a sublime cross from the right, finding Karl Griffiths unmarked at the far post. The Welsh winger leapt to head past goalkeeper Leon Jones, sparking wild cheers from the stands. Griffiths struck again in the 73rd minute, meeting Jack Smith’s whipped left-footed cross with a glancing header that had enough power to beat Jones. The precision of both assists underscored Bransay’s attacking flair, honed by manager Callum Baird.

The victory propelled Bransay to 30 points from 12 games - nine wins and three draws - maintaining their perfect record. With a 24 goal difference, driven by 37 goals scored, Bransay have outclassed the six-team division. Waldridge Park, in second, strengthened their promotion push with a 3-0 win over Benton Reserves on the same day, moving to 20 points. A result better than Stobswood Welfare Reserves’ next game will confirm their ascent to the NCFL Premier Division alongside Bransay.

The day’s results reshaped the relegation battle. Stobswood Welfare Reserves’ victory over Bedlington United lifted them off the bottom to third with 13 points, dropping Whitley Bay SC Reserves into the relegation zone with 12 points and a -9 goal difference. Bedlington United, also on 12 points but with a -3 goal difference, cling to safety for now, while Benton Reserves, with 12 points and a -14 goal difference, face the drop. Stobswood’s resurgence has tightened the fight, with three games left to decide the two relegated sides.

Griffiths, who has seven goals this season, credited the team’s unity. “Forge Road’s a fortress because of our fans and our fight,” he said. “Conor and Jack’s crosses were perfect - I just had to nod them in. This title is for Bransay.” Baird hailed the squad’s resilience despite losing key players like Marcel Byrne and Moshe Haliva. “We’ve not lost a game and that’s down to every lad’s heart,” Baird said. “Karl’s goals, Conor’s development, Jack’s magic - this is what Bransay’s about. The Premier Division is next and we’re ready for it.”

The NCFL Premier Division, currently led by North Tyne & Westholme on 26 points with Whickham Fellside on 24, awaits Bransay in 2026/27. For now, the focus shifts to maintaining the unbeaten run, starting with Benton Reserves away on 7 March.

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As the curtains close on the 2025/26 NCFL Division One season, we are crowned as champions, finishing with 36 points from 15 games - 11 wins, 3 draws and a single loss. Our 44 goals scored and 17 conceded, yielding a +27 goal difference, powered us to the title and promotion to the NCFL Premier Division. From February to April, we added three wins to our tally.

We kicked off February by clinching the title with a 2-0 home win over Whitley Bay Sporting Club Reserves on 14 February. Karl Griffiths stole the show, heading in Conor Crawford’s pinpoint cross in the 35th minute and nodding Jack Smith’s whipped delivery in the 73rd.

On 7 March, we faced Benton Reserves at Churchill Playing Field, storming to a 4-2 victory. The game was all but won within 20 minutes. Liam Lightfoot pounced on a saved Flynn McNaughton shot from Christian Lynn’s cross in the 1st minute. Oliver Walters’ 35-yard low drive screamed in on 6 minutes, Griffiths headed McNaughton’s cross on 15 minutes and Lynn’s curling shot kissed the post to go in on 19 minutes after a one-two with Griffiths. Rae Pulford’s 61st-minute free kick and Péter Kiss’s 91st-minute strike, capitalising on Charlie Uddgren’s error, were mere consolations for Benton.

Our perfect record fell on 29 March, as Stobswood Welfare Reserves stunned us 2-1 away. Steve Robbins headed in Marshall Pennock’s cross on 25 minutes, but McNaughton’s top-corner penalty equalised a minute later. Jody Murray’s 76th-minute free kick found Olakunle Ekwueme’s head to snatch the win, ending our unbeaten run in a bitter blow.

We ended the season in style on 18 April, beating promoted runners-up Waldridge Park 2-0 at Forge Road. Lightfoot’s volleyed deflection from McNaughton’s nod-down of Lynn’s cross broke the deadlock on the stroke of half-time. In the 66th minute, Alex Plummer’s free kick hit the post and Matty Bryan headed the rebound into an empty net.

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We finished on 36 points, 14 clear of Waldridge Park, who secured promotion with 22 points from 5 wins, 7 draws and 3 losses - all three defeats against us.

Stobswood Welfare Reserves took third with 18 points, staying in the division alongside Bedlington United in fourth with 17 points.

Whitley Bay SC Reserves (15 points) and Benton Reserves (13 points) were relegated to NCFL Division Two.

The NCFL Premier Division, a nine-team division, awaits. North Tyne & Westholme claimed the title and promotion this season, leaving Whickham Fellside, Newcastle Westgate, Blyth Rangers Reserves, Consett Blackfyne, North East Sporting Club, Cramlington United Reserves, Waldridge Park and North Shields Athletic Reserves as our foes for 2026/27. With Forge Road behind us, we’re ready to take on the mainland and win again.

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Bransay Athletic have elected 37-year-old Geoff Garnett as their new chairman, succeeding Garry Eccles, who chose not to seek re-election after guiding the club to the NCFL Division One title and promotion to the NCFL Premier Division.

The election, held at Forge Road on 1 June, also saw board changes, with directors Alex Noice and Alin Lazăr stepping down, replaced by Benjamin Hewlett and Ciarán Horn.

Garnett, a Bransay-born entrepreneur with roots in the island’s fishing industry, won a tight race against three other candidates. His campaign focused on stability and community, promising to back manager Callum Baird. “This club is the pulse of our island,” Garnett said. “From North Northumberland to Premier Division, we’ve risen together. I’ll keep us grounded but ambitious.”

Eccles, who oversaw Bransay’s historic 2025/26 season, departs with praise, saying, “Geoff’s got the heart for this. I’m proud of our journey and will cheer from the stands.”

Hewlett, a local accountant and Horn, a former Bransay youth coach, join director Ian Kenny on the board. Hewlett aims to strengthen financial planning, while Horn will focus on youth development. “We’re here to serve Bransay’s spirit,” Horn said.

The changes come as Bransay prepare for a NCFL Premier Division campaign, facing Whickham Fellside, Newcastle Westgate and others. With promotion secured and an almost unbeaten season behind them, Garnett’s leadership will be key to navigating the next chapter.

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As the 2026/27 NCFL Premier Division season looms, the nine-team league promises a fierce battle for promotion and survival. With 16 games to play, one team will earn promotion to the Northern Football Alliance, while two face relegation to NCFL Division One. Bransay Athletic, fresh off an unbeaten NCFL Division One title, emerge as favourites, but a host of challengers stand ready to upset the odds. Here’s a look at the contenders in the compact yet cutthroat division.

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Bransay Athletic head the division as clear favourites, riding a wave of momentum from three consecutive promotions. Under Callum Baird, who balances council advocacy with management, Bransay’s 44-goal haul last season - led by Flynn McNaughton and bolstered by new signings Matty Bryan and Matt Barlow - makes them a formidable force. Their direct 4-4-2 and passionate Forge Road support will test every opponent, but the step-up to a nine-team league with seasoned sides could stretch their squad depth.

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Whickham Fellside, managed by James Edwards in his third year, are second favourites. Finishing second last season, three points behind champions North Tyne & Westholme, Whickham boast a balanced squad and tactical nous. Edwards’ high-pressing style nearly clinched promotion in 2025/26 and their consistency - 25 points from 16 games - makes them a serious threat. Expect Whickham to push Bransay all the way, especially at home.

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Waldridge Park, third favourites, join Bransay as NCFL Division One promotees, having secured second place last season. Conor Dunbar, in his second year as manager, relies on right winger Jordon Croudson’s flair, whose free-kick goal against Bransay last season showed his danger. Waldridge’s 22 points in Division One came with resilience, drawing seven games, but their three losses to Bransay highlight a potential Achilles’ heel. Dunbar’s side will aim to surprise with pace and grit.

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North East Sporting Club, fourth in the favourites, are led by Tobias Rasulo and spearheaded by striker Mark Muir. Finishing sixth last season with 20 points, their mid-table stability belies Muir’s goal-scoring prowess, which could propel them into the promotion conversation. Rasulo’s attacking setup thrives on home form, but consistency away will be key to cracking the top three.

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Consett Blackfyne, managed by Kacey Ollis, sit fifth in the odds. Their fifth-place finish last season, with 24 points, was built on the rock-solid defending of centre-back Robbie Marsden. Ollis’ disciplined approach makes Consett tough to break down, but a lack of firepower upfront could limit their ambitions. A play-off push is within reach if Marsden anchors the backline.

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Newcastle Westgate, sixth favourites, are managed by Adam Rollins and driven by dynamic midfielder Devonte Leyland. Third place last season with 25 points put them in contention, but their failure to sustain a title challenge exposed squad depth issues. Leyland’s creativity will spark moments of brilliance, but Westgate must tighten defensively to climb higher.

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Cramlington United Reserves, seventh in the betting, face an uphill battle after a seventh-place finish with 16 points last season. Their lack of a standout star and reliance on youth could see them flirt with relegation, though home games at Cramlington might spring surprises.

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North Shields Athletic Reserves, relegated from the Northern Football Alliance Third Division with 20 points, are eighth favourites. Their adjustment to the NCFL Premier’s intensity will be tough and survival will hinge on grinding out results against fellow strugglers.

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Blyth Rangers Reserves, ninth in the odds, finished fourth last season but face a unique hurdle: they cannot be promoted unless their first team advances from the Northern Football Alliance Third Division. This restriction could sap motivation, despite their solid 2025/26 campaign. Blyth’s young squad will aim to disrupt but may struggle against the division’s heavyweights.

With Bransay’s firepower, Whickham’s experience and Waldridge’s hunger, the promotion race looks tight. At the bottom, Cramlington, North Shields and Blyth will scrap to avoid the drop. The NCFL Premier Division kicks off on 29 August 2026 and every goal will count in this unforgiving league.

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Bransay Athletic have lost a key attacking talent with the departure of 19-year-old left winger Karl Griffiths to Thornaby in the Northern League Division Two.

The Welshman, who joined Bransay last season from Carlisle United’s academy, leaves after a stellar 2025/26 campaign that helped secure the NCFL Division One title and promotion to the NCFL Premier Division.

Griffiths made an immediate impact after signing in the summer of 2025, scoring 8 goals and providing 3 assists in all 15 NCFL Division One matches. His brace in a 2-0 title-clinching win over Whitley Bay Sporting Club Reserves on 7 February 2026, both headers from pinpoint crosses, showcased his flair and finishing. Griffiths’ pace and directness on the left flank were vital to Bransay’s 44-goal haul.

The move to Thornaby, a step up to a higher tier, offers Griffiths a chance to test himself in a competitive North East league. “Bransay gave me everything - a home, a stage and fans who lifted me,” Griffiths said. “Scoring at Forge Road was magic. Thornaby’s a new challenge, but I’ll never forget this island.”

Manager Callum Baird expressed mixed feelings about the exit. “Karl’s a special talent - 8 goals at 19 speaks for itself,” Baird said. “It’s tough to lose him, especially to a club outside our path, but he’s earned this shot. We’ve got depth to cover and he knows Bransay’s door is open.”

Baird’s squad, already hit by departures like Marcel Byrne and Moshe Haliva, now turns to 24-year-old Ewan Forster, who scored 6 goals and assisted 3 in 20 games before Griffiths’ arrival, alongside academy graduates Steve House and Chay Hopson, to fill the left-wing role.

With the NCFL Premier Division season kicking off on 29 August, Bransay, favourites for promotion, face immediate pressure to adapt. Forster’s experience and the promise of House and Hopson will be tested in the league.

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Bransay Athletic have pulled off a coup, re-signing fan favourite striker Marcel Byrne from Leigh Foundry in the Wigan & District Amateur League Division Two.

The 28-year-old’s return comes as Bransay sit top of the NCFL Premier Division, unbeaten with five wins from five games, amassing 15 points and 19 goals to lead second-placed Waldridge Park by three points. Byrne’s homecoming bolsters an already lethal attack, sparking excitement among the island’s supporters.

Byrne, who left Bransay for Leigh Foundry in December 2025, remains one of the club’s all-time greats, scoring 33 goals in 39 games during his first spell from 2023 to 2025. His 16 goals in 18 matches in the North Northumberland League, 7 in 12 in the NCFL Division Two and 10 in 9 in the NCFL Division One fuelled Bransay’s meteoric rise.

Though still trailing Einar Skjoldson’s historic 92 goals from the late 1800s, Byrne’s predatory instincts made him a Forge Road legend. At Leigh Foundry, he scored 1 goal in 4 games last season before firing 5 in their opening 5 this term, helping them top their division.

The timing of Byrne’s return couldn’t be better. Bransay’s attack, led by 16-year-old Finnish-English academy star Jami Salo, has been relentless. Salo, the club’s youngest-ever debutant at 16 years and 15 days, has netted 7 goals in 6 games, while Flynn McNaughton has added 2 in 6.

The duo’s 19 goals in five matches have powered Bransay’s perfect start, but manager Callum Baird sees Byrne as the missing piece. “Marcel’s a Bransay icon,” Baird said. “His goals built our rise. To have him back, especially with Jami and Flynn firing, is massive. He’s home and we’re thrilled.”

Byrne, visibly moved, addressed fans outside Forge Road. “Leaving was tough, but Bransay’s my heart,” he said. “The roar of these stands, the island’s fight - I’m back to score for you again. Let’s chase that Premier title.” His experience will complement Salo’s raw talent and McNaughton’s pace, giving Baird a fearsome frontline as Bransay eye promotion to the Northern Football Alliance.

Chairman Geoff Garnett called the signing a statement. “Marcel’s return shows our ambition. With Jami breaking records and Flynn’s class, we’re building something special.”

As Bransay prepare for their next clash, with Waldridge Park, Whickham Fellside and others lurking, Byrne’s boots could be the key to a fourth straight promotion. Forge Road is buzzing and the island’s faithful are ready to roar their hero home.

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As October fades, we stand undisputed atop the NCFL Premier Division, a perfect six wins from six games, amassing 18 points and a +13 goal difference with 21 goals scored and 8 conceded. From August to October, our relentless attack, led by 16-year-old prodigy Jami Salo and Flynn McNaughton, has overwhelmed the nine-team league. With a six-point lead over second-placed Waldridge Park, we’re setting a blistering pace toward promotion to the Northern Football Alliance.

We kicked off on 29 August with a thrilling 5-3 home win over Consett Blackfyne at Forge Road. Jami Salo, at 16 years and 15 days, became our youngest-ever player and scorer, intercepting a loose pass and slamming it into the top corner after just 31 seconds. Jack Smith headed Christian Lynn’s cross in the 2nd minute and Oliver Walters’ deep delivery found Smith’s looping header in the 20th for 3-0. Colm Mooney’s 42nd-minute free kick pulled one back, but Ewan Forster skipped a tackle to score in the 45th after interplay with Walters and Flynn McNaughton. Salo struck again in the 56th, latching onto Liam Lightfoot’s pass, before Consett’s John Akpan and Matty Brown scored late headers in the 82nd and 85th minutes.

On 19 September, we crushed Whickham Fellside 5-0 at Watergate Park. Walters set up McNaughton’s top-corner strike in the 6th minute, Salo teed up McNaughton’s bottom-corner finish in the 20th and Derrick Oduro’s long ball found Salo for a 22nd-minute goal. Ewan Forster blasted in from Jack Smith’s pass in the 51st and Walters headed Alex Plummer’s rebounding free kick in the 79th.

Against Blyth Rangers Reserves on 26 September, we won 5-3 at home, hitting 15 goals in three games. Salo struck in the 4th minute from Walters’ square ball, but Daniel Vieira equalised from a Tom Whiting corner. Walters headed in McNaughton’s over-the-top pass in the 11th and tapped in Smith’s low cross in the 50th. Salo’s audacious 60th-minute chip over Martin Wilson made it 4-2, despite Jai McKeown’s low drive. Whiting’s 94th-minute header was undone by Plummer’s 96th-minute clincher.

On 10 October at Berry Park, we edged North East Sporting Club 2-1. McNaughton squared to Salo for a 33rd-minute opener and assisted his near-post strike in the 81st after a one-two, despite missing a 56th-minute penalty. Jordan Cameron’s 83rd-minute penalty was too late. Against North Shields Athletic Reserves on 17 October, we won 2-0 at home. Jack Smith capitalised on goalkeeper Hayden Robinson’s fumble from Lightfoot’s pass in the 54th and Julian Mitchell volleyed Salo’s miscleared cross in the 95th.

Our October finale on 31 October saw us beat Newcastle Westgate 2-1 at Newcastle City Learning Centre. Lightfoot’s glanced header from Salo’s corner looped in on 2 minutes. Ian Wildsmith’s 39th-minute penalty levelled, but academy graduates Martin Lindsay and Steve House combined for House’s top-corner strike in the 43rd.

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We lead with 18 points, Waldridge Park trail on 12, Consett Blackfyne have 11 (from seven games) and North East Sporting Club sit fourth with 9.

Newcastle Westgate (8 points), Blyth Rangers Reserves (7) and North Shields Athletic Reserves (6) form the mid-table, while Whickham Fellside (5) and rock-bottom Cramlington United Reserves (1) face relegation.

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Bransay Athletic have bid farewell to 20-year-old left-back Christian Lynn, who has signed for Pontefract Collieries in the Northern Premier League Division One East.

The departure of the Hartlepool United product, a key figure in Bransay’s rise, is softened by the signing of 23-year-old Leeds United academy graduate Taylor Ragan from Selby Town as his replacement. The moves come as Bransay lead the NCFL Premier Division with a 28 points from a possible 30.

Lynn, who arrived in a surprise transfer from Hartlepool United in 2024 to replace Tom Weaver, became a Forge Road favourite. Over three seasons, he made 34 appearances, scoring 5 goals and providing 7 assists. His marauding runs and pinpoint crosses, like those setting up Matty Bryan’s hat-trick against Waldridge Park in January 2026, were pivotal in Bransay’s NCFL Division One title and promotion.

This season, Lynn’s assists for Jack Smith and Jami Salo in the 5-3 win over Consett Blackfyne underlined his importance. His move to Pontefract, a step up to a higher tier, offers a chance to shine in a competitive non-league division.

Manager Callum Baird, while disappointed, backed Lynn’s decision. “Christian’s been phenomenal,” Baird said. “Pontefract’s a big opportunity and he’s earned it. He leaves with our blessing and a standing invite back to Bransay.” Lynn’s exit follows those of Marcel Byrne (now returned), Karl Griffiths and Moshe Haliva, testing Bransay’s depth as they chase Northern Football Alliance promotion.

Stepping into Lynn’s boots is Taylor Ragan, a 23-year-old left-back with a strong pedigree. A Leeds United academy product, Ragan had a loan spell at Bradford (Park Avenue) in 2022 before joining Selby Town in the NCEL Division One in 2023. Over three seasons, he made 89 league appearances, scoring 1 goal and adding 6 assists, helping Selby to three consecutive play-off finishes.

“Taylor’s a proper talent,” Baird said. “89 games for Selby, play-off pedigree - he’s ready to anchor our left flank. The fans will love his fight.” Ragan, eager to debut, said: “Bransay’s rise is unreal and Forge Road’s buzz is special. I’m here to keep the momentum going.” With Rudi Tingle as backup, Ragan’s arrival ensures continuity as Bransay face Waldridge Park next.

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Bransay Athletic have confirmed the departure of 31-year-old striker Matty Bryan to Polonia Yorkshire, a club with strong Polish roots based at West Yorkshire Sports Club in Wakefield.

Bryan, who joined Bransay in January 2026, leaves after a brief but impactful spell, with the club opting not to seek a replacement thanks to their robust striking options.

Bryan arrived from Dunston alongside Matty Barlow to bolster Bransay’s attack following Marcel Byrne’s exit to Leigh Foundry and Mark Fitzpatrick’s retirement. In the 2025/26 NCFL Division One season, Bryan made an immediate mark, scoring 4 goals in 5 games, including a debut hat-trick in a 3-1 win over Waldridge Park on 24 January 2026 that helped secure promotion.

However, this season in the NCFL Premier Division, Bryan failed to make an appearance, overshadowed by the emergence of 16-year-old Jami Salo, Flynn McNaughton, Mason McNeil, Barlow and the returning Byrne.

Manager Callum Baird praised Bryan’s contribution. “Matty’s hat-trick against Waldridge was massive for us,” Baird said. “He gave us everything in Division One, and we wish him well at Polonia Yorkshire. It’s a good move for him to get minutes.” Polonia Yorkshire, competing in a lower-tier league, offers Bryan regular football in a culturally vibrant setup.

With McNaughton, Salo, McNeil, Barlow, and Byrne, Bransay’s attacking depth remains formidable. The club, top of the NCFL Premier Division with 31 points from ten wins, are well-equipped to chase promotion to the Northern Football Alliance without further signings.

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Bransay Athletic have announced the departure of 24-year-old left winger Ewan Forster to Barrow Wanderers, who currently lead the North Lancashire & District Premier Division.

Forster, a stalwart of Bransay’s rise, leaves after four seasons, with the club now weighing whether to sign a replacement or rely on academy graduates Steve House and Chay Hopson.

Forster joined in manager Callum Baird’s first season in 2023/24, making an immediate impact in the North Northumberland League. Over his first two years, he played 20 matches, scoring 6 goals and providing 3 assists, his pace and crossing key to Bransay’s early success.

The arrival of Karl Griffiths in 2025/26 saw Forster lose his starting spot, but after Griffiths’ move to Thornaby in the summer, Forster reclaimed his role, scoring 4 goals and assisting 2 in 8 games this season in the NCFL Premier Division. His standout moments included a clinical finish in a 5-3 win over Consett Blackfyne on 29 August 2024.

Baird expressed deep gratitude for Forster’s contributions. “Ewan’s been a cornerstone, always giving everything,” Baird said. “Barrow’s a good move for him and we’re thankful for his heart and fight. He’s a Bransay lad forever.” Forster’s exit follows those of Christian Lynn and Matty Bryan, testing Bransay’s depth as they top the NCFL Premier Division with 31 points from ten wins.

With House and Hopson ready to step up, Bransay have cover, but Baird hinted at potential recruitment. “Steve and Chay are class, but we’ll look at options to keep our edge,” he said.

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As January 2027 draws to a close, we reign supreme atop the NCFL Premier Division, unbeaten with 34 points from 11 wins and 1 draw across 12 games. Scoring 43 goals and conceding 16 for a 27 goal difference, we’ve surged eight points clear of second-placed Waldridge Park with four games left. We need just two points to clinch the title and promotion to the Northern Football Alliance.

November began with a 4-1 rout of Cramlington United Reserves at Forge Road on 7 November. Christian Lynn set up Jami Salo’s glancing near-post header in the 36th minute, followed by Martin Lindsay’s cross for Flynn McNaughton’s header in the 45th. Lynn’s marauding solo run and near-post strike in the 56th made it 3-0, and Salo tapped in Lynn’s square ball in the 68th. Stuart Doherty’s 93rd-minute consolation was all Cramlington could muster.

On 21 November, we drew 1-1 away at Waldridge Park’s Riverside, preserving our unbeaten record. Layton Petrie’s 65th-minute long-range strike put Waldridge ahead, but Salo’s 84th-minute equaliser kept us in control.

December started with a 7-1 demolition of Consett Blackfyne at home on 12 December. Jack Smith scored twice in the 5th and 12th minutes, both low efforts assisted by Oliver Walters. Walters netted in the 28th after Smith’s headed pass, and Salo tapped in Ewan Forster’s low cross in the 39th. Paul Jones exploited Derrick Oduro’s error in the 46th, but Walters’ low drive in the 50th, McNaughton’s 55th-minute penalty, and Forster’s composed finish in the 87th sealed the rout.

On 19 December, we beat Whickham Fellside 2-0 at Forge Road. Matt Broughton opened his account with a glancing near-post header from a 55th-minute corner, and Liam Lightfoot mirrored the feat in the 62nd.

January’s first game, a 4-3 thriller against Blyth Rangers Reserves away on 3 January, saw Ewan Forster fire in a controlled edge-of-the-box shot in the 30th. Gerallt Davies equalised in the 36th, but Salo’s near-post flick from Forster’s cross in the 37th and McNaughton’s header from Jack Smith’s cross in the 48th made it 3-1. George Robinson’s 30-yard screamer in the 60th and fumbled equaliser in the 67th levelled it, but McNaughton’s 74th-minute winner, assisted by Taylor Ragan, secured the points.

On 23 January, we overcame North East Sporting Club 4-2 at home. Jack Smith scored from McNaughton’s square ball in the 19th, but Jack Tunstall’s headed equaliser in the 24th kept it tight. Salo’s 43rd-minute header from Smith’s pass, McNaughton’s 76th-minute penalty, and his 89th-minute finish from Julian Mitchell’s square ball outdid Tunstall’s 82nd-minute header.

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We lead with 34 points, Waldridge Park have 26 (from 13 games), Consett Blackfyne 20 (13 games), and North Shields Athletic Reserves, Newcastle Westgate, and Whickham Fellside sit on 16, split by goal difference (+3, -3, -5). North East Sporting Club (15) hover above Blyth Rangers Reserves (12), who face relegation, while Cramlington United Reserves (1) are already down. Salo’s 13 goals and McNaughton’s 8 drive us forward.

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