Ryton prepare for biggest game in history; AROUND THE GROUNDS

Evening Chronicle (Newcastle, England), Sept 10, 2008

HUNDREDS of fans will descend on Kingsley Park this weekend as Ryton get set for the biggest match in their history.

They will play former football league side Halifax Town in the FA Cup first qualifying round on Saturday afternoon, with the visitors set to bring a large following.

Ryton's Steve Murray said: "We spoke to Halifax and they could bring between 10-20 coaches with fans.

"It's a dream come true, but we deserve to be here."

Murray will be as proud as anyone on Saturday afternoon, having been involved with the club in a number of roles for more than 25 years.

"We want to make it a great day for the club, but I'm sure our management team of Barry Fleming and Porky Brown will have the team focused and ready to win the tie," he said.

Murray is hoping the fans in the region will lend the team their support for what is a massive game for the club.

He said: "I am hoping supporters from not just Ryton but the North East far and wide will come along to watch the match."

Ryton, in their first season in the Northern League, have really hit the ground running with former Newcastle youngster Marc Walton instrumental in their success.

Murray added: "Marc is looking really sharp - he's enjoying his football and has been among the goals so far.

"The team is full of confidence. Our experienced captain, Gary Forbes, is leading the team superbly on the pitch and is an inspiration to our younger players like Carl Paterson and Stephen Shaw."

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