Whickham’s challenges continued as they suffered a heavy 9-0 defeat at the hands of Easington Colliery, who surged into a three-goal lead within the opening ten minutes. Tom Bott and Ethan Ward both scored twice, contributing significantly to the Colliers’ commanding victory.

On Tyneside, Birtley emerged victorious in a high-scoring contest against North Shields, finishing 6-3. Charlie Aitken’s two goals helped secure the win for the Hoops. Thornaby secured a narrow 1-0 victory at sixth-placed Horden CW, with Euan McBride’s 79th-minute strike proving decisive.

Leaders Bishop Auckland extended their winning run to eight out of nine matches after Aaron Thompson and Liam Jarvie each found the net in a 2-0 win over Penrith. Meanwhile, Kendal Town staged a remarkable comeback to defeat second-placed Blyth Town 5-4, scoring three late goals including a 93rd-minute winner from Jamie Looker.

Crook Town earned their second victory of the season thanks to Glen Hargrave’s brace in a 4-1 triumph over Redcar Town. Whitley Bay continued to struggle, falling 1-0 to Marske United after conceding a penalty in the 64th minute.

Northallerton Town came from behind to claim a 2-1 win at North Shields, with Joe Easton and Lewis Martin scoring late in the first half. Shildon achieved a 4-2 victory over Newton Aycliffe at Dean Street, largely due to Alfie Steel’s second-half hat-trick.

Newcastle Blue Star secured a 1-0 win on the road against Yarm & Eaglescliffe, who were reduced to ten men during the match. Jakub Zych’s early goal proved to be the difference in a closely contested fixture.