BATTLING Kirkbymoorside lost 3-2 to fellow Wearside League newcomers Newton Aycliffe.

A courageous comeback by the Moorsiders was just not enough to earn any reward against a side pushing for the title.

Newton Aycliffe started like champions, racing into a three-goal lead in the opening 41 minutes through Stuart Menny. David Forrest and Aaron Duff.

Sarjo Cham pulled one back after 43 minutes following a superb free-kick by Daman Cox and on the stroke of half time Johnny Brown reduced the arrears still further after good work by Cham and Alex Strickland. In time added on, Brown was clean through but Forrest pulled him back and was promptly cautioned but the chance to go in on level terms had passed by.

Cox hit the bar for the Moorsiders after 69 minutes, but the visitors held out to go back to County Durham with all three points. Paul Hodgson was the Moorsiders’ man of the match.

Kirkbymoorside: Collier, E Strickland, P Hodgson, Oxendale, A Rivis (Ferguson 24), Lander, Cham, A Hodgson, A Strickland, Brown and Cox (U Ehima 75).

On Saturday, the Moorsiders are at home to Cleator Moor Celtic (kick off 2pm).