HEXHAM made a bright start to 2019 with a 2-1 home win over Felling Magpies in the Reeves Independent Northern Alliance Division One.  

The hosts put in a convincing performance, and were two goals to the good before their visitors scored what turned out to be a consolation in the second half.

Robbie Pattison opened the scoring to complete a memorable team goal, which started with a Felling throw-in deep inside the Hexham half. 

Defender Tom Hacking explained: “It was a good team move on the counter attack. Vinnie Proudlock got past his man and supplied the pass for Robbie, who finished it off nicely from about 10 yards.”

Hexham doubled their advantage after Dylan Mabunu was brought down in the Magpies’ penalty area. The resulting spot kick was converted by Kurtis Harvey. 

Hacking added: “The penalty came about after some good running from Kurtis and Dylan, to close them down from the front, and Kurtis tucked it away confidently from the spot.”

With 20 minutes to go, Felling scored from a free-kick which was deflected into the net. But the hosts, who enjoyed their fair share of possession, were able to hold out for the three points. 

Hacking added: “We did not help ourselves in terms of giving away a goal, but I felt as though we were always comfortable seeing the game out.

“We could have scored more and overall it was a good performance, so we were happy with our efforts.

“Felling were quite a physical side but all of our players held their own, and were up for the challenge.”

Hexham are eighth in the league table, with 24 points from 13 games. They play host to Blyth Spartans Reserves on Saturday.