Northern Premier League Division 1
Spalding United 2 : Bishop Auckland 1
22 October, 2005
Report from Sunday Sun
Team: Darran Horrigan, James Crossman, Chris Leadbitter (Blakemore), Paul Craiger, Michael Coulthard, Craig Robson, Damon Robson, Michael Oliver, Mark Sheeran, Paul Campbell, Daniel Newby
After conceding two first half goals, Bishop Auckland rallied, but after reducing the deficit in the 47th minutes, were unable to produce an equaliser at Spalding United.
The home side were quickly into their stride and only a fine save by Darran Horrigan prevented Andy Stanhope giving them the lead.
Bishops hit back, and it was the turn of Spalding goalkeeper Ian Pledger to produce an excellent stop, pushing away Danny Newby's goalbound effort.
Spalding broke the deadlock after 32 minutes, Kevin Childs slotting the ball wide of Horrigan, and worse was to follow for the visitors when Stanhope converted a cross by Lee Hudson. The hopes of Bishops rose with a twice taken 47th minute penalty. Mark Sheeran's spot kick was saved by Pledger, but the referee ordered it to be retaken and this time Newby fired wide of Pledger.
A minute later Sheeran did get the ball in the net, but the effort was disallowed for offside.
Bishops pressed in the later stages, but the Spalding defence, and Pledger in particular, stood firm.