By Brian Bennett | Photo: Keith Saint

Ashington AFC interim chair Nicola Sanders-Cooper has asked the Wansbeck public to get behind the Colliers ahead of their Emirates FA Cup preliminary round tie against Bishop Auckland on Saturday (August 17) which is to be beamed out live by the BBC.

Over many years, games between the two sides have always been keenly fought and well contested affairs and it was against Bishops at the end of the 2022-23 season that Andrew Cartwright’s penalty secured a 1-1 draw which took Ashington into the Inter step promotion play off final.

The Colliers then delivered a knockout punch away at Glossop North End with a convincing 3-0 victory which clinched them promotion and elevated them into the Pitching In Northern Premier League’s East Division,

However Bishop Auckland also achieved promotion to the NPLED at the end of the last campaign and ironically the two clubs were due to play each other in what will be a pre cup match dress rehearsal in their league meeting at Woodhorn Lane on Tuesday (August 13).

Ms Sanders-Cooper said of what promises to be a mouth watering clash: “Ashington AFC has been selected for broadcasting for our upcoming Emirates FA Cup match against Bishop Auckland. I am delighted about the news so a big thank you to the FA and the BBC. This is a remarkable opportunity because the exposure will not only elevate our club but also inspire future generations in our community. I encourage all of our supporters to rally behind the team as we prepare for this momentous occasion – together let’s make this a day to remember!”

Kick-off is 12.30pm with the live broadcast available via the BBC iplayer, red button and online. Tickets are available to purchase online at the following link https://ashingtonafc.ktckts.com/event/afc2425facuppre/ashington-afc-vs-bishop-auckland-fc-fa-cup