By Brian Bennett

Ashington have been handed an away draw in the first round of the Newcastle Flooring Northumberland Senior Cup.

The Colliers will travel to face Ebac Northern League second division outfit Newcastle University and manager Nick Gray said: “The Senior Cup gives teams a realistic chance to play at St James’ Park which is fantastic. Last year we did well in the competition before bowing out at the semi final stage on penalties against Morpeth Town so we’ll be looking to go one better this time round and get through to the final. We’re away from home and we know what Newcastle University will be about – they’ll be a young, fit and energetic team but we’ve just got to make sure that on the night we are firing.”

The full draw is:

Blyth Town v Blyth Spartans

Alnwick Town v Prudhoe YC

Newcastle Blue Star v North Shields

Newcastle Uni v Ashington

Whitley Bay v West Allotment

Newcastle Benfield v AFC Newbiggin