Heaton Stannington returning to St James’ Park after Northumberland Senior Cup Semi-Final victory

Dale Pearson’s brace helped Heaton Stannington earn a place at St James’ Park, following a 5-1 win over Newcastle University in the Northumberland Senior Cup Semi-Final at Grounsell Park.

The Stan were tied with Newcastle University at half-time after losing their early lead, before second-half goals from Max Storey, Pearson, and Leighton Hopper secured the Stan’s win.

Newcastle opened the scoring inside 11 minutes as Kane Morris put the visitors in front.

Eight minutes later, it was back to level, when Joe Robson headed the ball into the net, scoring his first goal for the club.

Even after scoring, the home team had to quickly organise its defence, as Redford missed from close range.

The students regretted their missed chance at the end of the first half, as they faced a lot of pressure from Stan’s many chances, and at the 50th minute, they conceded a second.

After scoring his first goal last time against Ossett United, Storey scored his second for Stan to take advantage of his team’s strong start to the second half.

Dean Nicholson’s team didn’t stop there. Eight minutes later, Pearson faced the goalkeeper alone and got past him, putting the ball into the open net to make it 3-1.

The Stan improved as the half went on, constantly testing the Newcastle University defence, and scored their fourth goal in the 85th minute. Andy Burn passed the ball to Hopper, who easily tapped it in from close range.

It was a great night for the home team, with Lewis Brass saving an 87th minute penalty.

It was a night to forget for the visitors, who let in five goals as Pearson scored his second of the match in the 91st minute.